Turkey , Turkey

Luxury Guided Istanbul Tour

Active

(1 reviews)

6h - 9h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Enjoy a Luxurious, Full Day Luxury Private Istanbul Tour of the Hippodrome, Underground Basilica Cistern, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, St. Sophia, and the maze of the Grand Bazaar.

Available options

Luxury Guided Istanbul Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Entrance Fees

Pickup / drop off service is provided from/to centrally located hotels at European side of Istanbul

Private tour

Professional art historian guide

Guaranteed to skip the long lines

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Visit the beautiful Hagia Sophia

Stop 2

Following the conquest of Istanbul in 1453, the construction of the Topkapı Palace was started in 1460 at the request of Fatih Sultan Mehmet and was completed in 1478. Topkapı Palace, which was not built simultaneously with all the additional buildings, was enlarged with the supplementary buildings added until the 19th century. Topkapı Palace is located in one of the oldest historical regions of Istanbul. Located on the historical Istanbul peninsula between the Marmara Sea, the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn, the palace is one of the iconic structures of Istanbul. Topkapı Palace, established on an area of 700,000 square meters on the Eastern Roman acropolis in Sarayburnu, was the administrative, educational and artistic center of the empire for approximately four hundred years from Fatih Sultan Mehmet to the 31st Sultan Abdülmecid, as well as housing the dynasty.

Stop 3

Visit the famous Basilica Cistern

Stop 4

Visit the Sultanahmet Square

Stop 5

Visit the Blue mosque

Visit the famous Grand Bazaar

What's not included

Personal expenses

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

Due to the Covid-19 Virus the itinerary may change as some attractions may be closed.

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup 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