Exploring Istanbul’s renowned landmarks has never been easier. This full-day small group tour takes travelers on a captivating journey through the city’s iconic sights. From the grandeur of Hagia Sophia to the serene Blue Mosque, each stop offers a glimpse into Istanbul’s rich history and culture. With knowledgeable guides, air-conditioned transportation, and a delightful Turkish lunch, this tour provides an immersive experience. While entrance fees to select attractions are additional, the value this tour offers is undeniable.

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Key Points

Full-day Istanbul highlights tour covering iconic attractions like Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, and Topkapi Palace.
Includes pickup from centrally located hotels, air-conditioned transportation, and a 1-hour lunch at a local Turkish restaurant.
Opportunity to explore the stunning interiors of Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, with additional entrance fees required.
Witness the architectural grandeur and cultural significance of the Blue Mosque and the Hippodrome.
Tour concludes with a guided exploration and free time at the bustling Grand Bazaar.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This full-day Istanbul highlights tour provides visitors with an opportunity to explore the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Priced at $69 per person, the 7-hour experience covers key attractions like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, and Topkapi Palace.

Pickup from centrally located hotels is included, and the tour is available in multiple languages.

Entrance fees to the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace are extra.

The tour includes a 1-hour lunch at a local Turkish restaurant and transportation via an air-conditioned vehicle with separate entrance to avoid lines.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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Key Attractions

The tour begins with a visit to the Hagia Sofia, an iconic Byzantine-era structure that served as a church, mosque, and now a museum. Guests spend 75 minutes exploring its stunning interior.

Next, they visit the nearby Blue Mosque, admiring its beautiful blue tiles and intricate architecture for an hour.

The tour then moves to the Hippodrome, the former center of Byzantine life, for a brief 15-minute stop.

Afterwards, they explore the expansive Topkapi Palace, the primary residence of Ottoman sultans, for 2 hours.

The day concludes with a guided tour and free time at the iconic Grand Bazaar.

Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia is an iconic landmark in Istanbul, showcasing a remarkable fusion of Byzantine and Ottoman architectural styles. Visitors spend approximately 75 minutes exploring this historic site, which serves as a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage. Entrance fees are 25 € per person, payable directly to the guide.

| Hagia Sophia Details | |

| — | — |

| Duration | 75 minutes |

| Entrance Fee | 25 € per person |

| Access | Included in tour |

| Accessibility | Closed during prayer times and special events |

The Hagia Sophia’s stunning interior, with its grand dome and intricate mosaics, captivates visitors, offering a glimpse into Istanbul’s remarkable past.

Blue Mosque

Next on the tour is the iconic Blue Mosque, which captivates visitors with its stunning architectural design and historical significance.

Adorned with six minarets and over 20,000 handmade ceramic tiles, the mosque’s magnificence is immediately apparent.

Visitors can:

Admire the intricate calligraphy and Ottoman-era architectural elements
Observe the serene atmosphere and learn about the mosque’s role in Muslim worship
Capture breathtaking photographs of the Blue Mosque’s exterior and interior

The tour guide will provide insights into the mosque’s history and cultural significance, ensuring a meaningful and memorable experience for all participants.

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Topkapi Palace

After exploring the serene atmosphere of the Blue Mosque, the tour moves on to the majestic Topkapi Palace, a stunning architectural marvel that once served as the primary residence and administrative center of the Ottoman sultans.

Visitors will spend 2 hours exploring the palace’s opulent interiors, including the Harem, the Imperial Treasury, and the sprawling courtyards.

Visitors will spend 2 hours exploring the palace’s opulent interiors, including the Harem, the Imperial Treasury, and the sprawling courtyards.

The palace’s rich history and intricate Ottoman design make it a must-see attraction on any Istanbul itinerary.

With an extra fee, guests can enjoy the grandeur of this iconic landmark, a highlight of the day’s comprehensive sightseeing experience.

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Grand Bazaar

Leaving the grandeur of Topkapi Palace behind, the tour group then ventures into the bustling heart of Istanbul – the iconic Grand Bazaar.

This vast marketplace offers a sensory overload, with:

Thousands of shops and stalls overflowing with colorful textiles, aromatic spices, intricate metalwork, and unique souvenirs.
A guided tour through the labyrinthine corridors, providing insights into the Bazaar’s history and helping navigate the dizzying array of options.
Opportunities to bargain with shopkeepers, hone haggling skills, and immerse in the local trading culture.

The 1.5-hour visit strikes a balance between guided exploration and free time to wander and discover personal treasures.

Booking and Flexibility

With the option to reserve now and pay later, travelers can keep their plans adaptable without the need for upfront payment.

This flexibility allows them to book the tour in advance while maintaining the freedom to adjust their itinerary as needed. The tour provider understands the importance of convenience, which is why they’ve implemented a no-upfront-payment policy.

Guests simply need to wait in their hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time, ensuring a seamless start to their full-day exploration of Istanbul’s best highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

This is a small group tour, though the exact group size is not specified. Small group tours typically range from 2 to 15 participants, allowing for a more intimate and personalized experience.

Are There Any Dietary Requirements for the Included Lunch?

The tour doesn’t appear to mention any specific dietary requirements for the included lunch. Travelers with dietary needs should contact the tour operator in advance to inquire about accommodations.

Can Children Participate in This Tour?

Yes, children are welcome to join this tour. The tour is suitable for all ages and families. However, parents should ensure their children’s safety and engagement throughout the day.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour itinerary can’t be extended, but participants can explore additional sites at their own pace after the tour ends. There’s flexibility in the tour’s schedule to accommodate individual interests within the allotted 7-hour duration.

Are Audio Guides Available During the Tour?

Audio guides are not mentioned as part of this tour. However, the tour includes a guide who provides commentary during the key attractions. The tour length allows ample time for the guide to provide informative insights throughout the day.

The Sum Up

The Istanbul: Full-Day Best Highlights Small Group Tour offers an immersive cultural experience at a reasonable price. Guests can explore iconic landmarks, enjoy a local lunch, and benefit from air-conditioned transportation and knowledgeable guides. While entrance fees for some attractions are additional, the tour provides a comprehensive introduction to the city’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here: