Explore the vibrant heart of Istanbul on a private guided tour that showcases the city’s most iconic landmarks. This customizable experience offers flexibility, prioritizing what matters most to you. Skip the lines at must-see sites like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, enjoying the captivating history and cultural richness that defines this enchanting metropolis. With a dedicated guide by your side, you’ll gain unique insights that bring the city to life in a way that mass tours simply can’t match.

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Key Points

Personalized private guided tour of Istanbul’s top landmarks, including Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern.
Option to customize a 7-hour daily itinerary with flexibility to add or remove attractions.
Skip-the-line access to popular sites to maximize sightseeing and minimize waiting times.
Two-day tour option includes a Bosphorus boat tour and a visit to the Grand Bazaar.
Competitive pricing starting at $109.38 per group (up to 7 participants) with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The "Best of Istanbul" tour offers a private guided city experience for 1 or 2 days, priced from $109.38 per group (up to 7 participants).

The 7-hour daily itinerary is customizable, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve their spot without upfront payment.

The tour includes skip-the-line access to top attractions like Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.

Pickup is available from Galataport, hotels, or Airbnb locations. Guests can explore iconic landmarks, off-the-beaten-path sites, and enjoy a Bosphorus boat tour, with lunch included.

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Tour Features and Highlights

The tour features a personalized experience with a dedicated guide who can provide skip-the-line access to the city’s iconic landmarks.

A personalized tour with a dedicated guide offering skip-the-line access to Istanbul’s iconic landmarks.

Explore the historic Hagia Sophia, the stunning Blue Mosque, and the grand Topkapi Palace. Visit the Basilica Cistern, featured in Hollywood movies, and marvel at the opulent Dolmabahçe Palace.

Discover the lively Spice Bazaar, the vibrant Taksim Square, and the panoramic views from Galata Tower.

For a comprehensive experience, the two-day option adds the Suleiman Mosque, a Bosphorus boat tour, and the bustling Grand Bazaar.

Comfortable attire and a headscarf for women are recommended.

Day 1 Highlights

On the first day, visitors explore Hagia Sophia, the historic cathedral-turned-mosque that captivates with its stunning Byzantine architecture. Next, they marvel at the Blue Mosque, known for its stunning architecture and iconic silhouette. The tour then moves to Topkapi Palace, the lavish residence of Ottoman sultans for 400 years. Visitors descend into the Basilica Cistern, a subterranean wonder featured in popular films. The day concludes with a visit to Dolmabahçe Palace, the opulent residence of the last Ottoman sultans, and a stroll through the vibrant Spice Bazaar and lively Taksim Square and Istiklal Street.

| Attraction | Highlights |

| — | — |

| Hagia Sophia | Historic cathedral-turned-mosque with stunning Byzantine architecture |

| Blue Mosque | Known for its stunning architecture and iconic silhouette |

| Topkapi Palace | Lavish residence of Ottoman sultans for 400 years |

| Basilica Cistern | Subterranean wonder featured in popular films |

| Dolmabahçe Palace | Opulent residence of the last Ottoman sultans |

| Spice Bazaar | Vibrant center of trade for centuries |

| Taksim Square, Istiklal Street | Lively public spaces |

Day 2 Highlights (If Selected)

Day two of the tour allows visitors to dive deeper into Istanbul’s rich history and culture.

The itinerary includes:

Visiting the magnificent Suleiman Mosque, commissioned by the esteemed Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent.
Setting out on a captivating Bosphorus Boat Tour, offering panoramic views of the city from the water.
Exploring the renowned Grand Bazaar, the world’s oldest covered market with over 4,000 shops, where visitors can enjoy the bustling energy of this historic trading center.
If the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays, the tour may visit the Arasta Bazaar or the Spice Bazaar as an alternative.

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Inclusions

The tour includes a private professional guide who provides skip-the-line access to major attractions.

Admission tickets are provided for Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, Dolmabahçe Palace, Galata Tower, and the Bosphorus Tour.

Admission tickets are provided for Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, Dolmabahçe Palace, Galata Tower, and the Bosphorus Tour.

Lunch is also included. Guests have the option to upgrade to a full-day vehicle for added convenience.

The tour covers key highlights like the Blue Mosque, Spice Bazaar, Taksim Square, and Istiklal Street.

Visitors are advised to wear comfortable clothing and a headscarf for women when visiting religious sites.

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Important Information

Although visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes and clothing, women should also bring a headscarf for visiting religious sites.

Some important information to keep in mind:

Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays, Dolmabahçe Palace is closed on Mondays, and the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays. In such cases, the itinerary will be adjusted to visit the Arasta Bazaar or Spice Bazaar instead.
The Bosphorus Boat Tour is included in the Day 2 itinerary for the 2-day tour option.
Customer reviews praise the quality of the guides and the personalized experience, with a 5/5 rating based on 3 reviews.

Customer Reviews

Customers have praised the quality of the guides and the personalized experience provided by this Best of Istanbul City Tour.

According to reviews, the guides are knowledgeable, engaging, and tailor the tour to each group’s interests. Clients appreciate the skip-the-line access, which maximizes time exploring the city’s iconic landmarks.

The tour’s flexibility, with options for 1 or 2 days, also receives positive feedback. Reviewers highlight the guide’s expertise in navigating the bustling city and providing insider tips.

With an overall rating of 5/5, this tour offers an exceptional way to discover the best of Istanbul.

Booking and Availability

Booking this Best of Istanbul City Tour is straightforward and flexible. Customers can reserve their spot without upfront payment and take advantage of a free cancellation policy.

Booking this Best of Istanbul City Tour is straightforward and flexible, with no upfront payment and a free cancellation policy.

There are several convenient options to consider:

1 or 2 day tour packages available
Customizable duration, from 7 hours per day
Pickup from Galataport, hotels, or Airbnb locations
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

With ample availability and a range of scheduling options, travelers can easily plan their sightseeing adventure in Istanbul to suit their preferences and needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to your preferences. The private nature of the tour allows you to tailor the experience to your interests and ensure you see the sights that matter most to you.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Change My Tour Date?

The tour offers full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility to change plans. Customers can book their spot without upfront payment, providing an easy and convenient booking process.

Is the Tour Guide Fluent in Languages Other Than English?

The tour guide is fluent in multiple languages, including English. They can provide personalized commentary and assistance to participants in their preferred language throughout the tour.

Are There Opportunities to Try Local Cuisine During the Tour?

The tour includes a lunch at a local restaurant, providing an opportunity to try authentic Turkish cuisine. Plus, guests can explore the Spice Bazaar, a center of trade for centuries, offering a chance to sample various local food items.

Can I Purchase Additional Services or Activities During the Tour?

Yes, you can purchase additional services or activities during the tour. The tour provides flexibility, allowing you to customize your experience by adding optional extras like a food tour, cooking class, or visit to off-the-beaten-path locations.

The Sum Up

Discover the best of Istanbul with a private guided city tour. Experience the iconic landmarks, learn about the rich history, and enjoy personalized attention from a dedicated guide. With flexible 1 or 2-day options and convenient pickup, this tour provides an exceptional way to explore the enchanting city. Prices start at just $109.38 for up to 7 participants, making it an excellent value for your money.