Tickets Included: Wonders of Istanbul Half-Day Walking Tour

Istanbul, Turkey
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Duration4h
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

Overview

Discover Istanbul’s timeless heritage alongside an expert historian guide who brings history to life. On this walking tour, we won’t just visit iconic landmarks—we will experience them through rich archaeological context.

The journey begins at the ancient Hippodrome, home to the Egyptian Obelisk and Serpent Column. Inside the breathtaking Blue Mosque, you’ll discover the craft behind its Iznik tiles, while at Hagia Sophia, we’ll trace history in magnificent Byzantine mosaics and mysterious Viking runes. Next, we will venture underground into the mystical atmosphere of the Basilica Cistern. Finally, we’ll conclude at the Grand Bazaar, where I’ll answer your questions and share expert shopping advice from a historian’s perspective.

What's included

  • Professional and licensed guiding service
  • Head seats (For groups of 7 or more participants)
  • Entrance fees for all locations requiring an admission fee are included.
  • Coffee and/or Tea
  • Tip to guide.

What to expect

  1. Hippodrome
    30m
    The heart of the social and political life of Byzantine Empire, Hippodrome houses Egyptian Obelisk, Serpent Column, Walled Obelisk and a lot of stories.
  2. Blue Mosque
    30m
    It is the largest structure built by the Ottomans in the city. This is not only a place where you will see magnificent blue tiles, but also a site where you will learn striking facts about Ottoman history and civilization. (Closed on Fridays.)
  3. Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
    1h 15m · Admission ticket included
    Representing the pinnacle of Roman architecture, this structure carries countless stories and mysteries within; it offers a breathtaking, hour-long discovery spanning everything from architecture to theology, and art to political history.
  4. Basilica Cistern
    30m · Admission ticket included
    The Romans must have been crazy: a massive underground water reservoir holding thousands of years of mysteries within. Hold your breath and get ready to be spellbound.
  5. Grand Bazaar
    30m
    The oldest and largest continuously active market in the world: a delightful journey through a vibrant explosion of colors among thousands of shops. Bargaining is encouraged!

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

In front of St. Regis Hotel

Meeting point

In Besiktas Square

Meeting point

In front of Karakoy Ferry Pier

Meeting point

In front of Viyana Cafe

Meeting point

In front of Starbucks under The Marmara Hotel

Meeting point

In the middle of Sultanahmet Square, in front of Blue Mosque

End point

In front of St. Regis Hotel

End point

In Besiktas Square

End point

In front of Karakoy Ferry Pier

End point

In front of Viyana Cafe

End point

In front of Starbucks under The Marmara Hotel

End point

In the middle of Sultanahmet Square, in front of Blue Mosque

Additional information

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • 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
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Visitors using wheelchairs will visit the ground floor instead of the second floor.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
From
$200.00 $160.00 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.
Operated by Tour Guide Celal · Booked through Viator
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From
$160.00 per person
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