Istanbul Walking Tour: Discovering Old Town

Exploring Istanbul’s captivating Old Town has never been easier. The Istanbul Walking Tour: Discovering Old Town offers an immersive experience, showcasing the city’s rich history and stunning architecture. With skip-the-line access, an English-speaking guide, and all entrance fees included, this 2-hour tour is the perfect way to uncover the enchanting sights of Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern. Priced at $34 per person, this highly-rated excursion promises an unforgettable journey through Istanbul’s past, leaving you eager to discover more.

Key Points

• This 2-hour walking tour explores the history and landmarks of Istanbul’s Old Town, including guided visits to Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern.
• The tour is priced at $34.00 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour includes skip-the-line access to both Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern, providing efficient exploration of these iconic sites.
• The tour begins at the Pudding Shop Lale Restaurant and concludes at Karaköy Pier, covering the main highlights of Istanbul’s Old Town.
• Participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring a headscarf for entry to Hagia Sophia, as the tour operates regardless of weather conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Istanbul Walking Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Old Town, priced at $34.00 per person.

The 2-hour tour allows visitors to discover the city’s rich history and iconic landmarks. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a "reserve now, pay later" option, the tour provides flexibility and convenience.

Highlights include guided visits to the Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern, where travelers can skip the ticket lines. The tour includes an English-speaking guide, headsets, and entrance fees, making it an excellent value for money.

Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring cash for any additional expenses.

Itinerary and Highlights

The Istanbul Walking Tour begins at the Pudding Shop Lale Restaurant, where the group meets the English-speaking guide.

The tour’s first stop is the iconic Hagia Sophia, where the guide leads a 75-minute tour, allowing free time for sightseeing.

The iconic Hagia Sophia is the tour’s first stop, where the guide leads a 75-minute tour and allows free time for sightseeing.

Next, the group visits the Basilica Cistern, with a photo stop, guided tour, and self-guided exploration lasting 35 minutes.

The tour concludes at the Karaköy Pier.

Highlights include skipping ticket lines at both Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern, as well as admiring the grand architecture and rich history of these renowned sites.

Tour Features

This Istanbul Walking Tour includes an English-speaking tour guide and headsets to ensure clear communication.

Entrance tickets for the Basilica Cistern and Hagia Sophia are provided, allowing you to skip the ticket lines. The tour covers the main highlights of Istanbul’s Old Town, including guided tours and free time at these iconic sites.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments. Guests are advised to arrive 5 minutes early and meet the guide at the designated meeting point.

Remember to bring comfortable shoes, cash, and a headscarf, as the tour operates rain or shine.

What to Bring and Important Information

When taking this Istanbul Walking Tour, guests are advised to bring comfortable shoes, as they’ll be on their feet for the duration of the tour.

It’s also recommended to bring cash, as the entrance tickets to the Basilica Cistern and Hagia Sophia aren’t included in the tour price.

Plus, guests should bring a headscarf, as it’s required for entry to the Hagia Sophia.

The tour operates rain or shine, so guests should dress appropriately for the weather.

Lastly, it’s important to arrive at the meeting point 5 minutes early, as the guide will be waiting in front of the Pudding Shop.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

| Metric | Rating |

| — | — |

| Overall | 4.7/5 |

| Guide | 5/5 |

| Transportation | 4.6/5 |

| Value for Money | 4.5/5 |

Exploring Hagia Sophia

Visitors exploring the grand Hagia Sophia can marvel at the structure’s magnificent architecture, which blends Byzantine and Ottoman influences.

Originally built as an Orthodox Christian basilica, the iconic landmark later served as a mosque and is now a museum.

Constructed as an Orthodox Christian basilica, the landmark later functioned as a mosque before becoming a museum.

Tourists can wander through the vast interior, admiring the intricate mosaics, towering marble columns, and dramatic dome.

The tour guide provides insightful commentary, highlighting the building’s rich history and cultural significance.

Visitors have ample time to capture photos and soak in the serene ambiance of this architectural masterpiece, a true highlight of the Istanbul walking tour.

Discovering the Basilica Cistern

After exploring the grandeur of Hagia Sophia, the walking tour leads visitors to the awe-inspiring Basilica Cistern. This underground water reservoir, built in the 6th century, is a marvel of Byzantine engineering. Visitors are guided through the cavernous space, marveling at the 336 marble columns that support the vast structure. A highlight is the two Medusa heads, repurposed as column bases, whose gaze captivates all who encounter them. The Basilica Cistern offers a unique glimpse into Istanbul’s past, transporting guests to a time of ancient splendor.

| Basilica Cistern Overview |

| — | — | — |

| Duration | 35 minutes |

| Highlights | Photo stop, guided tour, self-guided tour |

| Includes | Skip ticket lines |

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The tour doesn’t explicitly include a stop for traditional Turkish coffee, but the guide may be able to accommodate a brief coffee break if requested. It’s best to check with the guide beforehand to see if this can be arranged during the tour.

Do We Get Time to Explore the Grand Bazaar on Our Own?

No, the tour doesn’t include time to explore the Grand Bazaar on your own. The itinerary focuses on visiting the Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern, with the tour ending at Karaköy Pier. If you’d like to visit the Grand Bazaar, you’ll need to do so separately.

Is It Possible to Customize the Tour for Our Specific Interests?

Yes, it’s possible to customize the tour. The tour provider offers a flexible itinerary that can be tailored to your specific interests. You can discuss your preferences with the guide to create a personalized experience.

Are There Any Dress Code Requirements for Entering the Hagia Sophia?

Yes, there are dress code requirements for entering the Hagia Sophia. Visitors must wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Women must also cover their heads with a scarf or headscarf when entering the site.

Can We Take Photographs Inside the Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern?

Yes, visitors can take photographs inside the Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern. However, flash photography is generally not allowed, as it can damage the historic structures. It’s best to check with your tour guide for any specific photography guidelines.

The Sum Up

The Istanbul Walking Tour: Discovering Old Town offers an immersive experience exploring the city’s rich history and stunning architecture. With skip-the-line access, an informative English-speaking guide, and all entrance fees included, this 2-hour tour is a perfect choice for travelers eager to discover the enchanting Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, and other key landmarks in Istanbul’s Old Town. At $34 per person, it’s a highly-rated tour that provides great value for money.

You can check availability for your dates here: