Istanbul Private Half-Day Tour: Old City & Grand Bazaar Shopping

4.9 (18 reviews) Istanbul, Turkey
  1. Home
  2. Activities
  3. Istanbul
Duration3h - 4h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Private tourOnly your group will participate
Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

Discover the highlights of Istanbul’s historic Old City on a private half-day tour with a licensed professional guide. Ideal for first-time visitors, cruise passengers, and travelers with limited time, this experience offers a personal and flexible way to explore the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Explore Sultanahmet Square and discover the fascinating stories behind the Byzantine Hippodrome, Hagia Sophia, and the Blue Mosque. Rather than simply seeing the landmarks, gain a deeper understanding of the Byzantine and Ottoman history that shaped Istanbul.

Continue to the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. Walk through its historic passageways and discover its centuries-old trading culture, traditions, and unique atmosphere with your guide.

As a private tour, the experience can be adjusted to your interests and pace, allowing time for questions and a more personal introduction to Istanbul without the rush of a large group tour.

What's included

  • Private Tour
  • Licensed Professional Guide
  • Public transportation ( tram )
  • Guide meets you at your Hotel, Airbnb or Cruise Port
  • Food and drinks
  • Museum entrance fees
  • Private vehicle

What to expect

  1. Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
    45m · Admission ticket not included
    Hagia Sophia
  2. Blue Mosque
    45m
    Blue Mosque
  3. Hippodrome
    30m
    Hippodrome
  4. Grand Bazaar
    1h
    Grand Bazaar

Meeting and pickup

Pickup details

Your licensed guide will meet you at centrally located Istanbul hotels or at Galataport Cruise Terminal. This is a walking tour and does not include private vehicle transportation. When needed, public transportation such as the tram may be used to save time and avoid Istanbul’s traffic.

Grand Bazaar is closed to visitors on Sundays
The Blue Mosque is closed until 2:30 PM on Fridays for Friday prayers.

Additional information

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
  • ⁠The Blue Mosque is closed to visitors until approximately 2:30 PM on Fridays due to weekly congregational prayers.
  • ⁠Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays
  • ⁠Modest clothing is required when visiting mosques. Women should cover their hair, shoulders, and knees. Men should avoid shorts above the knee.
  • ⁠Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • This is primarily a walking tour and involves a moderate amount of walking. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
  • During Ramadan Feast and Sacrifice Feast, the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar are closed.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

4.9 (18)
From
$90.00 per person
Check availability & book
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
Operated by Enacem Travel Tour · Booked through Viator
More activities in Istanbul
From
$90.00 per person
Check availability