Istanbul old city tour

Istanbul, Turkey
Duration6h - 8h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesArabic, German, Chinese, Russian, Malay, Japanese, English, Persian, Italian, French, Spanish
Private tourOnly your group will participate
Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

Step into the heart of Old Istanbul and discover the city where East meets West. Walk through centuries of history as you explore magnificent landmarks, colorful bazaars, and hidden streets filled with charm and culture. Visit iconic sites, admire stunning architecture, and experience the atmosphere of the ancient city that once served as the capital of great empires. From majestic mosques to bustling markets, Old Istanbul offers an unforgettable journey through history, tradition, and timeless beauty. Book your experience and uncover the soul of Istanbul!

What's included

  • Private transportation
  • Bottled water
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Professional licensed guide
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • personal expenses
  • tips
  • Museum tickets are optional and can be purchased separately during the tour.

What to expect

  1. Sultanahmet Square
    15m
    sultanahmet square
  2. Blue Mosque
    30m
    The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, is one of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks. It was built between 1609–1616 during the reign of Sultan Ahmed I. The mosque is known for its six minarets and beautiful blue Iznik tiles decorating its interior. Today, it remains an active mosque and a major attraction visited by millions of tourists every year.
  3. Private Istanbul Curated Walking and Shopping Tours
    1h
    visit a traditional turkish delight shop and discover a variety of authentic Turkish sweets and local specialities. Visit a local leather store to discover Turkish leather.
    no purchase is required.
  4. Basilica Cistern
    45m · Admission ticket not included
    During this tour, guests will visit the famous Basilica Cistern — one of Istanbul’s most impressive underground landmarks, built in the 6th century during the reign of Emperor Justinian I.

    Inside, they will walk through a magical underground space filled with hundreds of ancient marble columns reflected in the water, softly illuminated to create a mysterious atmosphere. Visitors will learn about the history of the cistern, how it supplied water to the Great Palace of Constantinople, and discover fascinating architectural details hidden beneath the city.

    The tour also includes the opportunity to see the legendary Medusa head columns, one of the most iconic and mysterious symbols of the Basilica Cistern.

    Guests can enjoy incredible photo spots, peaceful ambient sounds, and a unique glimpse into Byzantine history beneath the streets of Istanbul.
  5. Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
    1h · Admission ticket not included
    Hagia Sophia, also known as Ayasofya, is one of Istanbul’s most iconic historical landmarks. It was built in 537 AD by Emperor Justinian I as a church and later became a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453. It also served as a museum before becoming a mosque again. Hagia Sophia is famous for its massive dome, stunning architecture, and unique blend of Byzantine and Ottoman history.
  6. TopkapI Palace
    2h · Admission ticket not included
    Topkapi Palace is one of the most important historical landmarks in Istanbul.
    It was the main residence of the Ottoman sultans for almost 400 years (from the 15th to the 19th century). Today it is a large museum complex where you can see how the Ottoman Empire was ruled and how the sultans lived.

    Inside the palace you will find:
    * ️ Royal courtyards and beautiful Ottoman architecture
    * Treasures of the Ottoman Empire, including jewelry and gold objects
    * The Sacred Relics section (religious artifacts of great importance in Islam)
    * Stunning views over the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn

Meeting and pickup

Pickup details

The meeting point is at Galataport Istanbul next to the Clock tower. Your guide will be waiting for you and will be holding a sign with your name on it.

Additional information

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • museums are not included

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
From
$35.00 per person
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  • 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.
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