Itinerary
This is a typical itinerary for this product
Stop At: Hagia Sophia Mosque, Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya MeydanI No:1, Istanbul 34122 Turkiye
The Hagia Sophia, also known as Ayasofya in Turkish, is a famous historic building located in oldtown Istanbul. It was originally built as the biggest cathedral in the world by Byzantine Empire in the 6th century and later converted into a mosque during the Ottoman Empire. The building is renowned for its massive dome and beautiful mosaics that reflect its rich history and architectural significance. In 1935, it was converted into a museum and in 2020, it was reconverted into a mosque. The Hagia Sophia has an important place in the art world with its architecture, grandness, size and functionality.The Hagia Sophia is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all around the world.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Blue Mosque, Sultanahmet Mah At Meydani Cad No 7, Istanbul 34122 Turkiye
The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, is a historic mosque in Istanbul, Turkey. It was built between 1609 and 1616 during the rule of Sultan Ahmed I. The mosque is known for its stunning architecture, with its six minarets and beautiful blue tiles adorning the interior, which give it the nickname "Blue Mosque." It is a popular tourist attraction and a significant symbol of Istanbul's skyline.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Hippodrome, Binbirdirek, Sultan Ahmet ParkI No:2, Istanbul Turkiye
The Hippodrome of Constantinople, also known as the Sultanahmet Square, is an ancient chariot racing track and the sporting and social center of Constantinople, the capital of the Byzantine Empire. Located in present-day Istanbul. the site is now a public square known for its historical significance and the remnants of its ancient structures.
The Hippodrome was a major venue for chariot races and other public events during the Byzantine era. It was adorned with monuments and sculptures, some of which still stand today, including the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpent Column, and the Column of Constantine. These monuments are important relics from the Roman and Byzantine periods and provide a glimpse into the city's rich history.
Today, the Hippodrome area is a popular tourist destination and a public space where visitors can explore the ancient ruins, learn about the historical and cultural heritage of Constantinople and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of modern Istanbul.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Topkapi Palace, Cankurtaran Mahallesi Gulhane Park, Near Sultanahmet Square, Istanbul 34122 Turkiye
The Topkapi Palace is a grand and historically significant palace located in Istanbul. It served as the primary residence and administrative headquarters of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. The palace complex is known for its stunning architecture, beautiful courtyards, and extensive collections of art, manuscripts, and other treasures.
The Topkapi Palace consists of several interconnected courtyards and buildings, including the Imperial Harem, where the sultan's family resided. The palace also houses the Treasury, which contains an impressive collection of priceless jewels, including the famous Spoonmaker's Diamond and Topkapi Dagger.
Today, the Topkapi Palace is a popular museum and a major tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Ottoman sultans and the rich history of the empire. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, drawing visitors from around the world to explore its magnificent grounds and learn about its fascinating past.
Duration: 2 hours
Stop At: Basilica Cistern, Alemdar Mahallesi, Yerebatan Caddesi, No:1/3, Istanbul 34410 Turkiye
Basilica Cistern Museum is one of the most important cultural assets where we can trace the traces of glorious Istanbul history. This grand underground cistern, built by Eastern Roman Emperor Justinian I (527-565), is nicknamed “Yerebatan Sarayı” (Sunken Palace) among the public due to its numerous marble columns rising from the water. It is also known as “Bazilika Sarnıcı” (Basilica Cistern) by some, as it was built on the site of the former Stoa Basilica, which was a basilica.
the Basilica Cistern visited by former U.S. President Bill Clinton. Impresive Roman empire structure as featured in Dan Brown's novel, "Inferno" and James Bond "From Russia with Love"
The Basilica Cistern is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all around the world.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Sultanahmet District, Istanbul 34122 Turkiye
Unique time to Discover Turkish Handcrafts ( Turkish Carpets, Leathers, ceramics) shopping opportunities
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Grand Bazaar, Grand Bazaar, Istanbul
The Grand Bazaar, also known as the Kapalıçarşı, is one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, located in the heart of Istanbul. Dating back to the 15th century, the Grand Bazaar is a sprawling complex of over 60 streets and alleys, housing more than 4,000 shops and stalls.
The bazaar is a vibrant and bustling place, offering a wide array of goods, including jewelry, carpets, textiles, ceramics, spices, leather goods, and traditional Turkish crafts. It's a paradise for shoppers looking for unique souvenirs and gifts.
The architecture of the Grand Bazaar is a sight to behold, with its labyrinthine layout, vaulted ceilings, and colorful displays. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of Istanbul as they wander through the maze of shops and interact with local merchants.
Duration: 2 hours
Pass By: Bilgins Leather & Fur Cağaloğlu, Mollafenari, Bab-ı Ali Cd. No:5, 34120 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
Biggest Leather and Carpet Producer in Turkey. Traditional shopping opportunities.
Pass By: Sultanahmet District, Istanbul 34122 Turkiye
Home to some of Istanbul’s most recognizable attractions, the Sultanahmet District is an ideal place to explore the city’s complex history. With the rose-colored Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya) sitting across from the six minarets of the Blue Mosque and down the street from the energetic Grand Bazaar, this neighborhood packs in a wealth of culture.
See Availability.
Serpent Column, Binbirdirek, At Meydanı Cd No:53, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
Traveler pickup is offered
Tour guide will meet you at Istanbul Hotels, Airbnb Locations or ISTANBUL CRUISE PORT (GALATAPORT- Sali Pazari). there are 3 options:
1) Guided tour
2) Guided tour with Transfers ( pick up and Drop off included)
3) Guided tour with Full Day Vehicle. ( Full day vehicle, Airport Transfer and tour, Customizable tour, Pick up and Drop off included)
We COLLECT the all tourist from their places. If location is not centrally located, please contact the operator.
ıf you want to meet with Guide in a location. meeting point is the front of Serpent column (Yılanli sutun).
Airports
6 to 8 hours(approx.)
Returns to original departure point
Not wheelchair accessible
Near public transportation
Infant seats available
Most travelers can participate
Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays can be replaced with alternatives.
Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays can be replaced with Spice Market.
Ladies should bring scarf to cover heads
Confirmation will be received at time of booking
This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Posted By : Stephen_B
Horrible experience. It was our first day in Istanbul. We were waled to 3 monuments and the palace was closed. The guide insisted we go check out a rug factory where the did a super hard sales tactics to get us to by a rug and we finally got out of there without a rip off rug purchase he dragged us to a pottery factory where the same hard core sales pitches. Next we went tot the Grand Bazaar and he guided us into his “favorite” Turkish Delight candy store and was super pressured to buy stuff and I thought give in and by buy some candy after all the samples and pressure. They charged me 5000 Turkish Lira for a bag of tea and a box of candy. The guide left us after about three hours early and I checked the exchange rate and my credit card statement and I paid $170 US for a box of candy and a bag of tea. Shame on Viator for using these scam artists for tours. I will be requesting a refund and work with the credit card company for a stop payment
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Posted On : 2024-05-17
Posted By : Alison_M
Our guide Aytac was excellent- flexible with schedule, very knowledgeable. We felt comfortable and safe. The sights were spectacular
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Posted On : 2024-05-13
Posted By : Adil_S
Alize was an exceptional tour guide. Her warmth, knowledge, and flexibility made the experience truly memorable. She accommodated my requests, ensuring a personalized and enjoyable trip. I highly recommend her for an insightful and tailored tour of the city.
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Posted On : 2024-05-12
Posted By : phiphung_p
If you're looking to avoid long queues and maximize your time exploring, then this tour is a must! Our group of ten embarked on this private tour with Serkan, and thanks to his expertise, we breezed past the lines, getting inside attractions faster than the regular crowds. Over the course of 6.5 hours, we were fortunate to explore the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia and the unique atmospheric Basilica Cistern. While we couldn't enter the Blue Mosque and the Topkapi Palace due to the crowds, we'll keep them on our list for next time. Throughout the tour, Serkan shared captivating historical insights about Istanbul, enriching our experience. We thoroughly enjoyed our time with Serkan!
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Posted On : 2024-05-10
Posted By : Chester_T
Learning about the history of Istanbul and Turkey, shopping, great recommendations for restaurants (which we took him up on), friendly and helpful demeanor as well as follow up after the tour. Helped with arrangements for other activities. Ilker was great 👍🏾
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Posted On : 2024-05-09
Posted By : C1492JBmikes
This was a really good tour. There was a lot of walking, but it was worth every minute. The guide was knowledgeable, thorough and friendly.
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Posted On : 2024-05-09
Posted By : Olivia_S
Adam was a very knowledgeable, friendly and funny guide. It was a nice walk around the sights of Istanbul all in close proximity with a delicious late lunch/early dinner to finish. Great recommendation:)
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Posted On : 2024-05-08
Posted By : Varghese_C
Had the most amazing walking tour yesterday. Opted for this as we were staying at a hotel that was very central. Our English speaking guide was very knowledgeable n well versed with the history of Istanbul. It was a very informative, satisfying n a memorable experience. Would recommend this to any of my friends n family. Thank you Viator.
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Posted On : 2024-05-06
Posted By : sue
Excellent guide-had a lot of information to share.Very relaxed. Changed route to avoid crowds and made sure we saw the main sights in Istanbul.
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Posted On : 2024-05-06
Posted By : Audra_S
Ozzy was the best tour guide ever! He was so personable and knowledgeable. Gave us the most memorable experience in Istanbul, full of history and fun. 10 out 10!
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Posted On : 2024-05-05
