Discover Ottoman and Byzantine history on this private Istanbul city tour, perfect for cruise passengers, first-time visitors, and travelers with limited time seeking a deeper cultural experience.
Explore Istanbul’s Old City (Sultanahmet) with a private guide, visiting UNESCO World Heritage landmarks and the city’s most famous historical attractions.
Visit the Hippodrome of Constantinople and see the Egyptian Obelisk, Serpent Column, and German Fountain.
Enter the iconic Blue Mosque, renowned for its six minarets and Iznik tiles.
Admire Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site reflecting Byzantine and Ottoman history.
Tour Topkapi Palace, former residence of Ottoman sultans with Bosphorus views.
Descend into the Basilica Cistern, famous for its Medusa heads and featured in Inferno and James Bond’s From Russia with Love.
Conclude at the Grand Bazaar, with shopping opportunities for carpets, jewelry, leather, and bags.
A private tour designed for unforgettable memories.
What you’ll do
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Unique time to Discover Turkish Handcrafts ( Turkish Carpets, Leathers, ceramics) shopping opportunities
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. Please note that the Grand Bazaar is closed every Sunday, as well as during the Eid al-Fitr (Ramadan Bayram) and Eid al-Adha (Sacrifice Bayram) holiday periods.
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.
What’s included
Unique time to discover Turkish Handicrafts & Traditional Arts Gallery
Private Tour & Professional Guide
Guide will have fast track tickets, You will pay to guide for tickets to skil the lines
Guide will meet you at central Istanbul Hotels, Airbnb Locations or ISTANBUL CRUISE PORT GALATAPORT
Not included
Lunch and Gratuities (suggested)
Transfer by AC Vehicle (Depends on option selected)
Museums Entrance Fees
Good to know
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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
If the tour starts at 12:00, the duration of the tour is 6 hours.
Period of Ramadan aid and sacrifice aid Grand baazar and spice market is closed
Please note that the Grand Bazaar is closed every Sunday, as well as during the Eid al-Fitr (Ramadan Bayram) and Eid al-Adha (Sacrifice Bayram) holiday periods.
Entrance fees will be paid in cash directly to your guide. Your guide will arrange fast-track access, allowing you to skip the line and enter without waiting in the regular ticket queue.
