First Steps in Istanbul

Discover Istanbul’s iconic landmarks on the "First Steps in Istanbul" tour. This personalized 4.5-hour experience takes you through the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. With an expert guide, you’ll dive into the city’s captivating history. The small group size ensures an in-depth exploration of each site, culminating in a mesmerizing light show at the Basilica Cistern. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or seasoned traveler, this tour promises to unveil the vibrant essence of Istanbul.

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Key Points

This 4.5-hour walking tour provides an introductory experience to Istanbul’s iconic attractions, including the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern.
The tour is offered in three languages (Russian, English, Spanish) and accommodates up to 5 participants, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
Highlights include a captivating light show in the Basilica Cistern and in-depth historical insights from a professional guide.
Entrance fees to the key sites are not included in the tour price, but the guide provides details on purchasing tickets and navigating the entrances.
The tour departs from the German Fountain and offers a convenient reserve spot and pay later option for booking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour, titled "First Steps in Istanbul," is a 4.5-hour exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks.

A 4.5-hour exploration of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, including Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.

Priced at $200.00 per group (up to 5 participants), it’s offered in Russian, English, and Spanish.

Tours depart from the German Fountain, and there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

Visitors can reserve their spot and pay later, checking availability to confirm start times and group sizes.

The tour showcases Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, the Basilica Cistern, and Hippodrome Square, providing insights into Istanbul’s rich history.

Looking for more options in Istanbul? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Booking Information

How can travelers book the "First Steps in Istanbul" tour? Booking is simple and convenient. Travelers can reserve their spot and pay later. To check availability, they can confirm the starting times and select the number of participants. The booking process is as follows:

| Option | Details |

| — | — |

| Reserve Now & Pay Later | Book your spot and pay nothing today |

| Check Availability | Confirm starting times and participant selection |

| Free Cancellation | Up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund |

| Group Size | Up to 5 participants |

| Payment | Made on the day of the tour |

Key Attractions

The "First Steps in Istanbul" tour takes visitors to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

The Hagia Sophia, a recently converted cathedral, is significant in the spread of Christianity.

The Blue Mosque, notable for its six minarets and thousands of blue handmade tiles, is a must-see.

The Blue Mosque, adorned with six minarets and intricate blue tiles, is a must-see attraction in Istanbul.

The Topkapi Palace, the historical residence of Ottoman sultans for 400 years, offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history.

The Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground reservoir with marble columns, features a captivating light show.

The Hippodrome Square, with its ancient columns and obelisks, showcases the city’s fascinating past.

Tour Highlights

Participants on the "First Steps in Istanbul" tour can expect to experience a captivating light show in the Basilica Cistern, which adds an enchanting element to the exploration of this ancient underground reservoir.

Throughout the tour, a professional guide provides in-depth knowledge and engaging storytelling, offering insights into Istanbul’s history as a capital and the famous visitors it has hosted over the centuries.

From the grandeur of the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque to the historical significance of the Topkapi Palace and Hippodrome Square, the tour delivers a comprehensive introduction to Istanbul’s most iconic attractions.

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Entrance Fees

Visitors to the "First Steps in Istanbul" tour can expect to pay entrance fees for several key attractions.

The Topkapi Palace requires a 2000 lira (55 Euro) fee. Entrance to the Basilica Cistern is 900 liras (24 Euros). Accessing the Hagia Sophia will cost 970 liras (25 Euros).

These fees aren’t included in the tour price, so participants should budget accordingly. The tour guide will provide details on purchasing tickets and navigating the entrance process.

Knowing the expected costs upfront helps ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience during this historical exploration of Istanbul.

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Suitability

Although the "First Steps in Istanbul" tour covers a wealth of historical and cultural attractions, it may not be suitable for individuals over 70 years of age.

The tour involves a significant amount of walking, often on uneven terrain, which could be challenging for older participants. Plus, the tour’s duration of 4.5 hours may be too physically demanding for some.

While the tour is open to all ages, the provider recommends that visitors over 70 carefully consider their fitness level and mobility before booking.

Those with concerns are encouraged to inquire about alternative tour options better suited to their needs.

Customer Reviews

The "First Steps in Istanbul" tour has garnered overwhelmingly positive reviews from past participants, who consistently highlight the expertise and engaging storytelling of the professional guide.

According to customer feedback:

Participants praised the guide’s in-depth knowledge, bringing the city’s rich history to life with captivating narratives.
Travelers appreciated the guide’s ability to navigate the bustling streets and landmarks efficiently, maximizing the tour experience.
Guests were delighted by the guide’s personable demeanor and willingness to accommodate individual interests and questions.
The tour received a perfect 5/5 rating, with many customers describing it as a must-do activity for anyone visiting Istanbul.

Getting Around Istanbul

Getting around Istanbul can be a navigational challenge for first-time visitors. The city’s winding streets, diverse neighborhoods, and extensive public transportation system can be overwhelming.

However, with a little preparation, you can easily explore the city’s top sights. The metro and tram systems are efficient and cover major areas, while the ferries provide scenic routes across the Bosphorus.

Getting around Istanbul’s top sights is easy with the efficient metro, tram, and scenic ferry systems across the Bosphorus.

Taxis are plentiful, but negotiating fares can be tricky. Walking is also a great way to discover hidden gems, but be mindful of uneven cobblestones and steep hills.

With a map and a willingness to try different modes, you’ll get the hang of getting around Istanbul.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no specific dress code for the tour. Participants are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather conditions. Casual, practical attire is recommended to ensure a comfortable experience during the tour.

Can We Purchase Souvenirs During the Tour?

Unfortunately, the tour does not include time for purchasing souvenirs. The focus is on visiting the key historical sites and learning about Istanbul’s rich history from the knowledgeable guide. However, participants may have free time at the end to explore shops independently.

Are There Any Bathroom Breaks Planned During the Tour?

Yes, the tour includes scheduled bathroom breaks at appropriate times during the 4.5-hour itinerary. Participants can expect several opportunities to use restroom facilities as needed to ensure a comfortable experience throughout the duration of the tour.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is not wheelchair accessible, as it involves navigating historical sites with uneven terrain and stairs. However, the tour operator recommends contacting them directly to discuss any accessibility needs prior to booking.

Can We Customize the Itinerary to Our Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to your preferences. The tour provider offers flexibility to adjust the itinerary based on your interests and needs. Just let them know your preferences when booking.

The Sum Up

The "First Steps in Istanbul" tour provides an excellent introduction to the city’s most iconic landmarks. With a personalized small-group experience, professional guides, and engaging features like the Basilica Cistern light show, it’s a great way to kickstart your Istanbul adventure. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply taking in the vibrant atmosphere, this tour delivers an informative and memorable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: