Full Day Private Customisable Old City Tour

1. Hippodrome
   30m
   After the live commentary the guide will give free time for photos and a short break.
   
   Sultanahmet Square is located in Istanbul’s historic peninsula and is surrounded by significant structures from the Byzantine and Ottoman eras. In ancient times, this area was known as the Hippodrome and served as a venue for chariot races and other events.
   
   One of the square’s most remarkable monuments is the Obelisk of Theodosius, originally commissioned by Egyptian Pharaoh Thutmose III in the 15th century BCE. It was brought to Istanbul by Roman Emperor Theodosius I in 390 CE. Made of granite and decorated with Egyptian hieroglyphs, this obelisk is an ancient piece that has stood since the Byzantine period.
   
   Sultanahmet Square is a popular attraction for both locals and tourists, offering a rich historical atmosphere.
2. Blue Mosque
   45m
   After the live commentary at Topkapi Palace, the guide will give free time for photos and a short break.
   
   The Sultanahmet Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, is located in Istanbul’s Sultanahmet district. It was built between 1609 and 1616 by Ottoman Sultan Ahmed I and designed by architect Sedefkar Mehmed Agha. The mosque is commonly called the "Blue Mosque" due to the blue Iznik tiles that adorn its interior.
   
   With six minarets and a striking dome structure, the Sultanahmet Mosque is one of the finest examples of classical Ottoman architecture. It serves both as a place of worship and as one of the city's most popular tourist attractions.
3. Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
   1h · Admission ticket not included
   After the live commentary the guide will give free time for photos and a short break.
   
   Hagia Sophia is one of Istanbul's most iconic structures and has served as a church, mosque, and museum throughout its history. It was originally built as a church by Emperor Justinian I in 537 AD. After the conquest of Istanbul in 1453, it was transformed into a mosque by Ottoman Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror and continued to function as such during the Ottoman period.
   In 1935, during the Republic of Turkey era, Ayasofia was converted into a museum, and it began serving again as a mosque in 2020. The structure is famous for its dome, massive mosaics, and rich decoration, showcasing elements of both Byzantine and Ottoman architecture. Ayasofia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known worldwide for its architectural grandeur and historical significance.
   As a historical and artistic treasure that bridges different religions and cultures, Hagia Sophia is one of the most visited structures in Istanbul.
4. Sultanahmet Square
   1h
   Lunch break for 1 hour
5. TopkapI Palace
   3h · Admission ticket not included
   After the live commentary at Topkapi Palace, the guide will give free time for photos and a short break.
   
   Topkapi Palace is one of Istanbul's most significant historical structures and served as the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire for over 400 years. Built in the 15th century by Fatih Sultan Mehmet, the palace was expanded over time with various additions.
   
   The palace is notable for its architecture, gardens, and exquisite details in its interiors. In addition to being the residence of Ottoman sultans, Topkapi Palace was a center for important state documents and international relations.
   
   Today, Topkapi Palace is open to visitors as a museum, showcasing valuable artifacts, clothing, and sacred relics from the Ottoman period. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of Istanbul's most popular tourist attractions.
6. Grand Bazaar
   2h
   The guide will tell the guests about the history of the Grand Bazaar and assist them with shopping.
   
   The Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı) is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in Istanbul. Construction began in the 15th century under Fatih Sultan Mehmet and was expanded over time. With approximately 61 streets and over 4,000 shops, it offers a wide variety of products, including textiles, jewelry, ceramics, carpets, and souvenirs.
   
   The Grand Bazaar is not just a shopping center; it is also a cultural and social meeting point. Visitors can enjoy traditional Turkish tea and sample local delicacies. Each year, millions of tourists visit the Grand Bazaar, making it one of Istanbul's most significant tourist attractions, renowned for its rich history and vibrant atmosphere.

Pickup details

We only pick up from city centers within the range we set up from Viator.
We will contact you before the pick up time.

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels