Exploring Istanbul’s iconic landmarks is a must for any traveler. The "Istanbul Must See" tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the city’s rich history and culture. From the stunning Hagia Sophia to the majestic Blue Mosque, the opulent Topkapı Palace, and the enchanting Basilica Cistern, this full-day walking tour promises an unforgettable experience. The tour concludes with a scenic Bosphorus cruise, offering breathtaking views of the city. With a knowledgeable guide and organized logistics, this tour provides an efficient and engaging way to discover the essence of Istanbul.

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About Your Stay

This full-day walking tour in Istanbul covers the city’s iconic landmarks, including Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapı Palace, Basilica Cistern, and a Bosphorus cruise.
The tour has a maximum group size of 15 travelers and is led by professional English-speaking guides.
Entrance fees for the attractions are excluded and must be paid on-site in cash.
Moderate fitness is recommended due to the extensive walking, and appropriate dress is required for the mosques.
The tour includes organized logistics, public transport fares, and a lunch, with past travelers rating the experience positively.

Tour Overview

The Istanbul Must See tour is a full-day walking experience that guides visitors through the city’s iconic landmarks.

With a maximum group size of 15 travelers, this highly recommended tour explores Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapı Palace, the Basilica Cistern, and a Bosphorus cruise.

Priced at $30-$60 per attraction, the tour includes professional English-speaking guidance, organized logistics, and public transport fares.

Travelers should expect a moderate level of physical fitness, wear comfortable shoes, and adhere to mosque dress codes.

Feedback highlights the knowledgeable guides, efficient pacing, and comprehensive coverage of Istanbul’s top sights.

Looking for more options in Istanbul? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary and Highlights

Key attractions on the Istanbul Must See tour include the iconic Hagia Sophia, the impressive Blue Mosque, the sprawling Topkapı Palace, the serene Basilica Cistern, and a relaxing Bosphorus cruise.

The tour provides entry to these must-see sights, with fees payable on-site in cash. Lunch is included, though details aren’t specified.

The meeting point is the German Fountain in Fatih, and public transportation fares are covered, so there’s no need for a bus card.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller-friendly. Moderate fitness is recommended, and appropriate dress for mosques is advised.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

Although certain elements are included in the Istanbul Must See tour, there are also some exclusions for travelers to be aware of. The tour includes professional guidance in English, an organized itinerary, and coverage of public transport and boat fares. However, the entrance fees for specific attractions, such as Hagia Sophia ($30 pp), Topkapı Palace ($60 pp), and Basilica Cistern ($40 pp), are not included. Plus, the tour does not provide pick-up and drop-off services from hotels, nor does it cover gratuities. Travelers should come prepared with cash to cover these additional costs.

Included	Excluded
Professional guidance in English	Entrance fees for attractions
Organized itinerary	Pick-up and drop-off from hotels
Boat and public transport fares	Gratuities

Accessibility and Recommendations

Accessibility is an important consideration for the Istanbul Must See tour. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller accessible.

Visitors should be prepared for a moderate level of physical activity, as the tour involves extensive walking. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

The dress code for the mosques requires men to wear shorts below the knee and women to cover their hair, legs, and shoulders. Covers can be rented for a fee at the Hagia Sophia.

Following these recommendations will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all participants on this comprehensive tour of Istanbul’s top attractions.

Questions About Your Stay

There's plenty more to explore in Istanbul

Can I Book This Tour as a Solo Traveler?

Yes, solo travelers can book this tour. The tour accommodates a maximum group size of 15 travelers, providing an opportunity for solo travelers to explore Istanbul’s top attractions with a knowledgeable guide and fellow participants.

Do I Need to Pay the Entrance Fees in Advance?

No, the entrance fees for Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, and Basilica Cistern are paid directly at the sites in cash. The Bosphorus cruise ticket is also purchased on the day of the tour.

Is There an Option to Join a Smaller Group?

The tour doesn’t offer a smaller group option, as it has a maximum group size of 15 travelers. However, the guide provides personalized attention and the tour pacing is efficient, allowing for a quality experience even in a larger group.

Can I Request a Private Tour Guide?

Yes, a private tour guide can be requested for this tour. Travelers who prefer a more personalized experience can inquire about this option, which may incur an additional fee. The tour operator can provide details on arranging a private guide.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Interests?

Yes, the tour provider may allow you to customize the itinerary to fit your interests. However, this would likely come at an additional cost and require advance notice to ensure availability of special arrangements.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The "Istanbul Must See" tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks, from the breathtaking Hagia Sophia to the serene Bosphorus cruise. With knowledgeable guides, seamless logistics, and a carefully curated itinerary, this full-day experience offers an unforgettable immersion in Istanbul’s rich history and culture, making it a must-do for any traveler seeking to uncover the captivating essence of this vibrant city.