Istanbul’s rich history and vibrant culture come alive on the Istanbul Highlights Small-Group Walking Guided Tour. Exploring the city’s iconic landmarks, like the stunning Blue Mosque and the opulent Topkapi Palace, offers an immersive experience that transports visitors back in time. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, this hassle-free tour promises an unforgettable journey through Istanbul’s captivating heritage. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour unveils a side of the city that may just surprise you.

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Key Points

The Istanbul Highlights tour is a comprehensive 8-hour walking tour that covers iconic landmarks, including the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar, Basilica Cistern, and Obelisk of Theodosius.
The tour is priced at $125 per person and includes transportation, entrance fees, and gratuities, providing a hassle-free experience.
Visitors can explore the intricate architecture and rich history of the Blue Mosque, known for its stunning blue Iznik tiles and classical Ottoman design.
The Topkapi Palace offers a glimpse into the lavish lives of Ottoman rulers, with its stunning architecture, ornate interiors, and vast collection of precious artifacts.
The Grand Bazaar, one of the largest covered markets in the world, provides an exhilarating experience of haggling for unique Turkish goods and immersing in the vibrant atmosphere.

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Tour Overview

The Istanbul Highlights Small-Group Walking Guided Tour provides an immersive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks.

Enjoy an exploration of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks on this small-group walking guided tour.

Priced at $125 per person, this 8-hour tour allows visitors to discover the rich history of Istanbul, formerly Constantinople, the capital of the Roman Empire.

The tour covers must-see sites like the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar, Basilica Cistern, and Obelisk of Theodosius.

With a flexible schedule and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers convenience and flexibility.

Transportation, entrance fees, and gratuities are all included, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

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Iconic Sites: Blue Mosque

One of the most iconic landmarks on the Istanbul Highlights tour is the magnificent Blue Mosque. Its classical Ottoman architecture features six towering minarets and 260 windows that flood the interior with natural light. The mosque’s name comes from the thousands of blue Iznik tiles that adorn the walls. Visitors are often awestruck by its sheer grandeur and intricacy of design.

| Feature | Description |

|———|————-|

| Minarets | 6 towering minarets |

| Windows | 260 windows |

| Tiles | Thousands of blue Iznik tiles |

| Design | Intricately detailed classical Ottoman architecture |

Exploring the Blue Mosque is a highlight of the Istanbul Highlights tour, providing a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture.

Topkapi Palace: A Historical Gem

Topkapi Palace stands as a historical gem on the Istanbul Highlights tour, a testament to the grandeur and power of the Ottoman Empire.

Visitors are captivated by its stunning architecture, ornate interiors, and sweeping views of the Bosphorus. The palace was the primary residence of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years, housing a vast collection of precious artifacts, including the famous Topkapi Diamond.

Guests can explore the palace’s courtyards, pavilions, and the Harem, providing a glimpse into the lavish lives of the Ottoman rulers.

Topkapi Palace offers a fascinating window into Istanbul’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Exploring the Grand Bazaar

What makes the Grand Bazaar an unmissable highlight of the Istanbul Highlights tour? This massive covered market is one of the largest in the world, boasting over 4,000 shops.

Visitors can lose themselves in a dazzling maze of vendors selling everything from handcrafted souvenirs to antique jewelry. The Grand Bazaar’s history spans centuries, as it was established in the 15th century during the Ottoman Empire.

Navigating the bustling labyrinth of alleys is an exhilarating experience, allowing travelers to enjoy the vibrant energy and haggle for the best deals on unique Turkish goods.

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Basilica Cistern: An Underground Marvel

Beneath the bustling streets of Istanbul lies a remarkable architectural wonder – the Basilica Cistern. This 6th-century Byzantine underground reservoir captivates visitors with its cavernous halls, eerie ambiance, and fascinating history.

| Feature | Description |

|———|————-|

| Size | Covering an area of 105 by 65 feet, the cistern can hold up to 2.8 million cubic feet of water. |

| Columns | Supported by 336 marble columns, some adorned with the iconic ‘Medusa’ head carvings. |

| Purpose | Originally built to supply water to the Byzantine imperial palace, it now serves as a unique historical site. |

The Basilica Cistern’s atmospheric beauty and engineering prowess make it a must-see highlight of any Istanbul adventure.

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Obelisk of Theodosius: A Roman Legacy

Towering amid the bustling streets of Istanbul, the Obelisk of Theodosius stands as a captivating relic of the city’s Roman past.

Erected in the 4th century AD, this ancient Egyptian obelisk was transported to Constantinople (now Istanbul) by the Roman emperor Theodosius I. Carved from a single piece of red granite, the obelisk is adorned with intricate hieroglyphic carvings.

Over the centuries, it has withstood earthquakes and invasions, testifying to the enduring legacy of Rome’s influence in the region.

Today, the Obelisk of Theodosius remains a testament to Istanbul’s rich history, drawing visitors from around the world.

Inclusions and Important Information

The Istanbul Highlights Small-Group Walking Guided Tour includes a range of valuable inclusions to enhance the overall experience.

The tour package includes:

The tour package includes air-conditioned transport, entrance fees, gratuities, and an experienced guide for a comprehensive Istanbul highlights experience.

Air-conditioned minivan transport to conveniently shuttle guests between sites
Entrance fees to all the iconic attractions visited, such as the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Grand Bazaar
Gratuities for the guide and driver, so guests don’t need to worry about tipping
An experienced, knowledgeable guide to provide historical context and insights throughout the tour

However, it’s important to note that the tour itinerary may change due to factors like museum closures, holidays, strikes, or weather conditions.

Plus, some areas of the Blue Mosque may be under renovation until the end of 2020.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Based on 179 customer reviews, the Istanbul Highlights Small-Group Walking Guided Tour has an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Customers praised the knowledgeable and engaging tour guides, who received a 4.9/5 rating. The transportation provided was also highly rated at 4.6/5.

While the tour offered good value for money at 4.3/5, some reviewers noted that certain attractions may be closed or undergoing renovations, which can affect the itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Bring on the Tour?

Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sun protection, a camera, a small amount of cash for purchases, and any necessary medications. Pack light to enjoy the tour without being weighed down by heavy belongings.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Site?

The time spent at each site varies, but the tour typically allots around 1-2 hours at major attractions like the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Grand Bazaar to allow guests to fully explore and learn about the historic locations.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour isn’t particularly suitable for children. It involves a significant amount of walking and visiting historical sites that may not be engaging for younger travelers. The pace and content are better suited for adults interested in the history and culture of Istanbul.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary is generally fixed, but the company may be able to accommodate minor customization requests. Customers should contact the tour operator directly to inquire about any possible flexibility in the tour schedule or attractions visited.

Will We Have Breaks for Food and Rest?

The tour includes breaks for food and rest throughout the day. Participants can expect to have ample opportunities to refuel and recharge during the comprehensive sightseeing experience.

The Sum Up

The Istanbul Highlights Small-Group Walking Guided Tour offers an immersive and hassle-free experience of the city’s iconic landmarks, from the stunning Blue Mosque to the bustling Grand Bazaar. With transportation, entrance fees, and gratuities included, the tour promises a deep dive into Istanbul’s rich history and vibrant culture, leaving participants with a comprehensive understanding of this captivating destination.