Istanbul – Old City Tour

Explore Istanbul’s rich history with the Old City Tour, a private journey through the city’s historic heart. Rated 5 stars by travelers, this tour provides an engaging exploration of iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, guided by knowledgeable experts. Enjoy complimentary refreshments and all-inclusive entrance fees for a seamless experience. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a family seeking a cultural adventure, this tour offers a flexible and accessible way to uncover the captivating stories that lie within Istanbul’s ancient walls.

Key Points

• This private tour explores the historic heart of Istanbul, including iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque.
• Tour is highly rated with 5 stars based on 17 reviews, and is priced at $235.25 for up to 8 people.
• Includes a private guide, complimentary food and drinks, as well as all entrance fees for a worry-free experience.
• Tour operates daily from 8 AM to 9 AM and is not recommended for individuals with back problems or serious medical conditions.
• Accessible via public transportation, with pickup options from various locations, and service animals are allowed, but it is not wheelchair accessible.

Tour Overview and Details

The "Istanbul – Old City Tour" is a highly-rated private tour that allows visitors to explore the historic heart of Istanbul.

This 5-star experience, based on 17 reviews, takes guests on a journey through the city’s iconic landmarks. Priced from $235.25 per group of up to 8 people, the tour includes a private guide, food, drinks, and entrance fees.

Pickup options range from the Hagia Sophia to the customer’s hotel. The tour operates daily from 8 AM to 9 AM, though it’s not recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions.

Inclusions and Services

According to the tour details, the "Istanbul – Old City Tour" includes a private tour guide service, along with complimentary food, drinks, and museum/attraction entrance fees.

The private guide will lead the group through the highlights of Istanbul’s Old City, providing in-depth historical insights and cultural context.

The tour also covers the cost of admission to popular landmarks like the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque.

With all essential expenses covered, travelers can fully enjoy the experience without worrying about additional out-of-pocket costs.

Meeting and Pickup Information

Where can travelers meet for the "Istanbul – Old City Tour"? The meeting point is outside the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, at Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya Meydanı No:1, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye.

Travelers have several pickup options, including Galataport, Sarayburnu port, their hotel, or the front of another nominated site/museum. The tour ends back at the meeting point.

The tour is accessible via public transportation, and it’s stroller-friendly, but not wheelchair-accessible. Service animals are allowed.

Tour Schedule and Accessibility

The Istanbul – Old City Tour operates daily from 12/1/2023 to 12/1/2025, with tour start times between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed. Service animals are welcome.

The tour meeting point is located near public transportation. However, the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions.

The tour returns to the original meeting point at the end of the experience.

Customer Feedback and Experience

Travelers consistently praise the Istanbul – Old City Tour, giving it a perfect 5.0 rating based on 17 reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor.

One reviewer, Nico, described the tour as "superb, tailor-made" with an "extremely knowledgeable guide who made historical facts come to life."

Others highlight the tour’s ability to bring the city’s history to light through the insights of the private guide.

With 100% recommendation from travelers, the tour provides an engaging and informative exploration of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, earning glowing feedback for its quality and value.

Exploring the Highlights of Istanbul’s Old City

Though located in the heart of bustling Istanbul, the Old City Tour transports visitors back in time, immersing them in the rich history and captivating landmarks that have defined this iconic neighborhood for centuries.

Guided by knowledgeable experts, the tour showcases the Hagia Sophia, a magnificent architectural marvel that has served as both a church and a mosque.

Travelers will also explore the Blue Mosque, renowned for its stunning blue-hued tiles, and the Basilica Cistern, an underground water reservoir that dates back to the 6th century.

Throughout the journey, the guide brings these historic sites to life, sharing fascinating stories that illuminate the city’s vibrant past.

Customizing Your Istanbul Adventure

One key aspect of the Istanbul – Old City Tour is the ability to customize the experience to suit individual interests and preferences.

Travelers can choose pickup locations, from their hotel to nearby landmarks, providing convenience.

The tour’s flexibility allows guests to focus on the sites that most intrigue them, whether that’s the Hagia Sophia, the Basilica Cistern, or the Topkapi Palace.

With private guide services, the tour can be tailored to each group’s pace and needs.

This personalized approach ensures an immersive and memorable exploration of Istanbul’s captivating Old City.

Common Questions

How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?

The tour involves a moderate amount of walking. Participants can expect to spend several hours on their feet exploring the historical sites and neighborhoods. The tour is not recommended for those with mobility issues or serious medical conditions.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Our Interests?

The tour can be customized to accommodate the interests of the travelers. The private guide will tailor the experience to focus on the sites and topics that are most relevant and engaging for the group.

What Should We Bring for the Tour?

Travelers should bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and any necessary medications. It’s also a good idea to bring a camera to capture the historic sights and scenery. Staying hydrated is recommended throughout the tour.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour has no age restrictions. It’s open to guests of all ages, though it’s not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions due to the physical demands of the activity.

Can We Stop for a Traditional Turkish Lunch During the Tour?

Yes, the tour includes a traditional Turkish lunch stop. The tour overview states that "food and drink" are included in the tour’s inclusions and services, so participants can enjoy a local meal during the experience.

The Sum Up

The Old City Tour of Istanbul offers an immersive and hassle-free exploration of the city’s historic heart. Rated highly by travelers, the tour provides access to iconic landmarks, knowledgeable guidance, and inclusive amenities. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or seeking a family-friendly experience, this tour promises an engaging and memorable journey through Istanbul’s rich past.