Private Tour: Istanbul Old City and Pottery Workshop

Turkey , Turkey

Private Tour: Istanbul Old City and Pottery Workshop

Active

5h - 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

In this Private Tour Discover magical Istanbul...
The Famous Old master will show you how to use his old fashioned kick-wheel, if you wish to produce your own pottery item then and there, with your name on work of art that you personally just created. The best tour for discovering Istanbul city by an expert guide. You will see the main sights including the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace.

Available options

Private Tour: Istanbul Old City and Pottery Workshop

Pickup included

What's included

Transportation provided only if necessary by taxi or local transportation

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

Professional guide

Bottled water

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Istanbul is a city that has historical and modern sightseeing places. The city has a rich history of 2,500 years. Begin your full-day tour at the Hippodrome, once the site of chariot races during the Roman and Byzantine era. See the ancient monuments which stand here to this day, such as the Obelisk of the Theodosius, the Serpentine Column, and the Column of Constantine.

Stop 2

We continue to the Blue Mosque. Famous for its beautiful courtyard and impressive minarets, the mosque gets its nickname from the splendid blue tiles that cover its interior walls and is probably the most photographed site in Istanbul.

Stop 3

The tour continues with a visit to Topkapi Palace, home to the Sultans of the Ottoman Empire. Today Topkapi Palace is a spectacular museum that houses the Muslim world’s holiest relics, including the cloak and sword of the Prophet Mohammed.

After a short break for lunch, our next venue is the Hagia Sophia, one of the world's architectural gems. An ancient basilica dating back to the 4th century, the Hagia Sophia stood as the Cathedral of Constantinople for over a thousand years before being converted into a mosque in 1453; today it serves as a museum attracting people from all over the world.

We end your tour at Istanbul's famous Grand Bazaar, the largest and the oldest covered marketplace in the world, where you may find all kinds of gifts, leather, clothing, rugs, antiques, and jewelry in an authentic Oriental atmosphere.

Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and aromas of this bustling bazaar, and shop till you drop!

What's not included

Food and drinks

Entrance fees

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Service animals allowed

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Due to the COVID-19 Virus the itinerary may change due to opening hours of some attractions.

This is a walking tour.

Dolmabahce is closed on Mondays.

Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.

Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays.

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions

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