Istanbul private tour with skip line tickets included
Active
4h - 7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Get to the heart of old Constantinople with this private 1-day walking tour of Istanbul's old city, Sultanahmet. Visit the Roman-era Hippodrome, the iconic Blue Mosque, Topkapi Serayi, home of the Ottoman sultans, and the stunning Hagia Sophia cathedral-mosque before haggling for souvenirs at the Grand Bazaar. Most people spend 8 hours or less on this tour.
Available options
PRIVATE ISTANBUL CITY TOUR
Private city tour<br/>Duration: 6 hours<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Skip Line Tickets for Hagia Sophia
Private Pick up and Drop off at your Hotel or Cruise Port by Airconditioned vehicles
Private Expert Local Guide
Private expert tour guiding for the day
Unique time to discover Turkish Handcrafts: (Carpet -Leather-Ceramic and Jewelry)
Pre-reserved tickets for Topkapi Palace
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Worldwide famous Blue Mosque, covered with blue tiles and ceramics, Only the mosque with 6 minarets in the city
2
World largest ancient shopping mall. 3700 independent shops, see the main samples of local items
3
Stop 3
One of the seven wonders of the world.Interior visit to Hagia Sophia Mosque with your guide.
4
Stop 4
Ancient hippodrome of Constantinapole,see the Byzantian and Egyptian Colums over 2500 years old.
5
Stop 5
a private guided detailed visit of the topkapi palace including the harem section
palace is closed on Tuesday we do visit underground basilica cistern
6
Learn and try how to make pottery
7
An optional visit of Turkish handycraft and souvenier center,
What's not included
Drinks
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
JA
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
142 reviews
5★
136
4★
6
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
22 reviews
5★
22
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
we do meet the travelers at this point to start the tour in case we do not pick up
Important notes
Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time
About Turkey
Turkey, a transcontinental country, bridges Europe and Asia, offering a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the ancient ruins of Ephesus and the serene beaches of the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, Turkey is a destination that caters to a wide range of interests.
Top Attractions
Hagia Sophia
A masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, the Hagia Sophia has served as a church, mosque, and now a museum. Its massive dome and stunning mosaics are a testament to its historical significance.
Historical/Religious
2-3 hours
Moderate (around 1000 TRY or 150 USD)
Ephesus
One of the most well-preserved ancient cities, Ephesus features impressive ruins, including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre.
Historical
Half-day to full day
Moderate (around 150 TRY or 25 USD)
Cappadocia
Known for its unique rock formations and underground cities, Cappadocia offers hot air balloon rides, hiking, and cave dwellings.
Nature/Adventure
2-3 days
Moderate to Expensive (depending on activities)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kebabs
Grilled or skewered meats, often seasoned with spices and served with bread, rice, or vegetables.
Main Course
Contains meat, can be made with various types of meat or vegetarian options.
Meze
A selection of small dishes, often including dips like hummus, baba ganoush, and various salads.
Appetizer
Can be vegetarian or vegan, depending on the specific dishes.
Baklava
A sweet pastry made with layers of filo dough, nuts, and honey or syrup.
Dessert
Contains nuts and sugar, can be made with various types of nuts.
Popular Activities
Hiking in Cappadocia
Paragliding in Oludeniz
Skiing in Uludağ
Hammam (Turkish bath)
Beach relaxation in Antalya
Yoga retreats in Fethiye
Visiting museums and historical sites
Attending traditional music and dance performances
Best Time to Visit
April to May, September to November
These months offer pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The tourist crowds are manageable, and the prices are relatively lower compared to the summer peak season.
15°C to 30°C
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Turkish
- Widely spoken: English, German, French
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Turkish Lira (TRY)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas
Turkey is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime, scams, and occasional political protests can occur. Stay informed and take necessary precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
Getting there
By air
- Istanbul Airport • 35 km from Istanbul city center
- Sabiha Gökçen International Airport • 32 km from Istanbul city center
By train
Istanbul Sirkeci Station, Istanbul Haydarpaşa Station
By bus
Istanbul Bus Terminal (Otogar), Ankara Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The metro system in Istanbul is efficient and covers major attractions. Other cities have smaller metro networks.
Taxis
Available • Apps: BiTaksi, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Sultanahmet
Beşiktaş
Kadıköy
Day trips
Princes' Islands
15-20 km from Istanbul • Half day to full day
A group of islands known for their peaceful atmosphere, historic mansions, and horse-drawn carriages. Perfect for a relaxing escape from the city.
Bursa
100 km from Istanbul • Full day
Known as the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, Bursa offers a rich history, beautiful mosques, and the famous Uludağ mountain for outdoor activities.
Troy
300 km from Istanbul • Full day
The ancient city of Troy, famous for the Trojan War and its archaeological significance. The site features the iconic Trojan Horse and well-preserved ruins.
Festivals
Istanbul Biennial • September to November (every two years)
Ephesus International Festival • May to June
International Izmir Short Film Festival • April
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Turkish phrases to enhance your interaction with locals
- Use the Istanbulkart for discounted public transportation fares in Istanbul
- Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
- Bargain politely when shopping at bazaars and markets
- Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
