Discover the wonders of Istanbul on a private guided tour tailored to your preferences. Whether you have 1, 2, or 3 days, you’ll explore the city’s iconic landmarks and learn about its vibrant culture. From the majestic Topkapi Palace to the serene Blue Mosque, your knowledgeable guide will bring the city’s rich history to life. With flexible transportation options and the opportunity to customize your experience, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most enchanting destinations.
Key Points

- Customizable private guided tours of iconic Istanbul landmarks like Topkapi Palace and Blue Mosque, tailored to individual interests.
- Flexible transportation options, including return transfers from cruise ship or hotel, to suit group size and needs.
- Professional tour guides available in multiple languages to provide knowledgeable and immersive experiences.
- Inclusion of access to museums and attractions, with exclusions such as live guides at Dolmabahce Palace.
- Special considerations for accessibility, dress code, and timing, ensuring a comfortable and seamless tour experience.
Tour Overview and Highlights
The private guided Istanbul tour offers visitors a comprehensive and customizable exploration of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
From the grand opulence of Topkapi Palace to the serene beauty of the Blue Mosque, the tour showcases the best of Istanbul’s rich history and culture.
Guests can wander through the bustling labyrinth of the Grand Bazaar, seeing the vibrant sights and sounds.
With the flexibility to tailor the experience to individual interests, the tour provides an unforgettable journey through this captivating city.
Available in multiple languages, the tour is led by knowledgeable guides to ensure an enriching experience.
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Transportation and Pickup Details

Return transportation to accommodation is included with the private guided Istanbul tour. Guests can request pickup from their preferred meeting point or request pickup from the Galata Port. If van service is not selected, taxi costs will be incurred for travel to the old city.
| Pickup Location | Group Size | Vehicle |
|---|---|---|
| Galata Port | Any | TBD |
| Hotel | Small | TBD |
| Preferred | Large | TBD |
The tour offers flexibility in transportation options to best suit the group’s needs and location.
Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

Included in the private guided Istanbul tour are the services of a professional tour guide, local taxes, museum tickets, and any necessary public transportation fees.
Lunch costs for the guide, approximately €35, as well as optional entrance fees, such as the Galata Tower, are excluded.
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Note that museum regulations prohibit live guide service at Dolmabahce Palace.
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Plus, the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays, in which case the Spice Market is offered as an alternative.
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Tour timing at the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia may vary on Fridays due to religious observances.
Accessibility and Special Considerations

Although the private guided Istanbul tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller accessible.
Visitors with service animals are welcome, and infant seats are available.
For mosque visits, women must cover their head, shoulders, and knees, while men must cover their knees. Wraps are available at mosque entrances for a small fee.
The tour offers flexibility, allowing travelers to return to their cruise ship or hotel at any desired time.
With these special considerations in mind, the private guided Istanbul tour provides an immersive cultural experience for visitors of all needs.
Additional Information and Reviews

Along With the accessibility and special considerations, the private guided Istanbul tour offers several other noteworthy features.
The tour company provides special pricing for a private Ephesus shore excursion when booked together. They also accommodate larger groups of more than 14 people, with adjustments made through messages.
Positive reviews from past travelers highlight the knowledgeable and personable nature of the tour guides, with many expressing a desire to revisit Istanbul for deeper exploration.
The tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, and the price starts at $75 per person, varying by group size.
- Special pricing available for private Ephesus shore excursion when booked together.
- Group accommodation for more than 14 people; booking adjustments via messages.
- Positive reviews highlight knowledgeable and personable guides.
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Customize Your Istanbul Experience
With a private guided Istanbul tour, travelers can customize their experience to suit their unique interests and preferences.
The flexible itinerary allows them to focus on the must-see sights like the Grand Bazaar, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia.
Alternatively, they can dive deeper into their passions, be it exploring the vibrant Spice Market or admiring the stunning Dolmabahce Palace.
The knowledgeable guide ensures a seamless and enriching journey, providing insights and navigating logistics.
This personalized approach empowers travelers to make the most of their time in the captivating city of Istanbul.
Exploring Istanbul’s Rich History

As visitors embark on a private guided tour of Istanbul, they enjoy the city’s rich tapestry of history.
From the grandeur of the Topkapi Palace to the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, the tour unlocks the secrets of Istanbul’s past:
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The Topkapi Palace, once the seat of the Ottoman Empire, reveals the opulent lifestyles of the sultans.
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The Blue Mosque, with its stunning architectural design and intricate tilework, stands as a testament to the city’s Islamic heritage.
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The Hagia Sophia, a former Byzantine church and Ottoman mosque, now a museum, showcases the blending of Eastern and Western influences.
Preparing for Your Private Tour
What steps should travelers take to prepare for their private guided tour of Istanbul? First, review the tour inclusions and exclusions to understand what’s covered and any additional costs.
Next, consider any accessibility needs or dress code requirements, like covering up for mosque visits. Travelers should also confirm their pickup location and time with the tour provider.
It’s a good idea to have local currency on hand for optional expenses like the Galata Tower. With a little preparation, travelers can make the most of their private Istanbul tour and explore the city’s rich history and landmarks.
FAQ
Can I Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?
Yes, the tour duration can be extended if needed. The tour offers flexible scheduling, allowing travelers to return to their cruise ship or hotel at any desired time during the day.
What Are the Payment Options for the Tour?
The tour offers flexible payment options, including the ability to pay in full upfront or make a deposit and pay the balance on the day of the tour. Accepted payment methods include credit card, debit card, and cash.
How Flexible Is the Itinerary to Accommodate Personal Interests?
The tour offers flexible customization based on participants’ interests. Travelers can work with the guide to tailor the itinerary and focus on the sites that most appeal to them for a personalized experience.
Are There Any Additional Costs for Customized Activities?
The tour offers flexibility to customize the itinerary based on personal interests, and there are no additional costs for customized activities. The price may vary depending on the group size and any optional entrance fees.
Can I Request a Private Tour in Languages Other Than Those Listed?
Yes, the tour can be provided in additional languages beyond English, Russian, Spanish, and Arabic. Travelers can request a private tour in their preferred language, and the tour operator will accommodate the request if possible.
Sum Up
Enjoy the captivating history and vibrant culture of Istanbul with a customizable private guided tour. Explore iconic landmarks, experience the bustling atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, and create unforgettable memories in this enchanting city. With flexible transportation options and knowledgeable guides, you’ll have the freedom to tailor the tour to your interests and preferences, ensuring an unforgettable exploration of Istanbul’s rich heritage.
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