Istanbul: 2-Day Private Highlights Tour With Entry Tickets

Exploring the captivating city of Istanbul has never been easier. This 2-day private highlights tour offers travelers a chance to explore the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. From the iconic Hagia Sophia to the bustling Grand Bazaar, each stop on the itinerary promises an immersive experience. With a focus on convenience and flexibility, this tour is the perfect way to maximize your time in this remarkable destination. What treasures will you uncover?

Key Points

• This 2-day private tour covers Istanbul’s major landmarks, including the Ancient Hippodrome, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Grand Bazaar.
• The tour is priced from $269.10 per person and offers a flexible reservation policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• On the first day, the tour explores the historical and architectural wonders of the Ancient Hippodrome, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.
• On the second day, the tour visits the Underground Cistern, Spice Bazaar, Suleymaniye Mosque, and concludes with a scenic drive along the Golden Horn.
• The tour provides entry tickets to all the mentioned attractions, ensuring a hassle-free and comprehensive exploration of Istanbul’s highlights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This 2-day private tour of Istanbul’s highlights provides an immersive experience, allowing travelers to explore the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.

Priced from $269.10 per person, the tour covers the Ancient Hippodrome, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar on the first day.

The second day includes the Underground Cistern, Spice Bazaar, Suleymaniye Mosque, and a scenic drive along the Golden Horn.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a flexible reservation policy, this tour offers a comprehensive and convenient way to discover the best of Istanbul.

Day 1 Itinerary

The first day of the tour starts at the Ancient Hippodrome, a historical site once used for chariot races and Byzantine riots.

Guests will then visit:

• The magnificent Hagia Sophia, a stunning 6th-century cathedral-turned-mosque

• The iconic Blue Mosque, known for its beautiful blue Iznik tiles

• The opulent Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans, featuring the weapons section and the legendary Harem

After these incredible sights, the tour concludes at the bustling Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with over 1,200 shops.

Ancient Hippodrome

The Ancient Hippodrome was a historical site in the heart of Istanbul, once used for chariot races and Byzantine riots. It stood as a testament to the city’s vibrant past. | Dimensions | 450 meters long, 117 meters wide |

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Construction | Commissioned by Emperor Septimius Severus in 203 AD

Capacity | Estimated to hold up to 100,000 spectators

Features | Three ornate monuments: Serpentine Column, Obelisk of Thutmose III, and the Constantine Column

Importance | Served as a central gathering place for public events, games, and political demonstrations

Hagia Sophia

Built in 532 AD by Emperor Justinian I, Hagia Sophia is one of the most iconic and historically significant structures in Istanbul.

• Originally a cathedral, it was later converted into a mosque, and now serves as a museum, showcasing its stunning Byzantine architecture and intricate mosaics.

• Visitors can admire the grandiose interior, including the massive central dome, the elaborate marble and porphyry columns, and the stunning gold-plated mosaics that adorn the walls and ceilings.

Hagia Sophia’s rich history and architectural beauty make it a must-see destination for anyone exploring the cultural wonders of Istanbul.

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Blue Mosque

Towering above the historic Sultanahmet neighborhood, the Blue Mosque captivates visitors with its stunning interior.

Adorned with over 20,000 blue Iznik tiles, the mosque exudes an ethereal ambiance. Constructed between 1609-1616, the mosque features six slender minarets and a vast central dome.

Visitors can marvel at the intricate calligraphy and ornate decorations that adorn the walls and ceilings. Renowned for its architectural beauty, the Blue Mosque remains an active place of worship, requiring visitors to dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering.

Exploring this iconic landmark offers a glimpse into Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage and the grandeur of Ottoman architecture.

Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace was the primary residence of the Ottoman sultans for almost 400 years, from the 15th to the 19th century.

The palace complex covers an area of 700,000 square meters and features:

Sprawling across 700,000 square meters, the Topkapi Palace complex showcases the opulence and grandeur of the Ottoman Empire.

• Lavishly decorated rooms and chambers that showcase the opulence of the Ottoman Empire

• The Harem, a secluded area where the sultan’s family and concubines lived, known for its intricate tile work and fountains

• Extensive armory and weapon collections, including swords, guns, and other artifacts from the Ottoman military

The palace offers a glimpse into the grandeur and power of the Ottoman dynasty.

Grand Bazaar

One of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, the Grand Bazaar opened its doors in 1461 and has since become a bustling hub of commercial activity in Istanbul.

With over 1,200 shops and daily visitor counts between 250,000 and 400,000, the Grand Bazaar offers a dizzying array of goods, from spices and textiles to jewelry and ceramics.

Visitors can wander through its maze-like corridors, haggling with vendors and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

Whether you’re looking to shop or simply soak in the local culture, the Grand Bazaar is a must-visit destination in Istanbul.

Day 2 Itinerary

On the second day, visitors will explore more of Istanbul’s iconic attractions.

The tour begins at the magnificent Underground Cistern, the largest covered water reservoir in the city, built by Emperor Justinian I.

Next, the group will visit the vibrant Spice Bazaar, renowned for its enticing aromas and wide selection of herbs and spices.

The final stop is the impressive Suleymaniye Mosque, designed by the renowned architect Sinan between 1550-1557, known for its grand size and four minarets.

The day concludes with a scenic drive back to the port along the Golden Horn.

• Underground Cistern

• Spice Bazaar

• Suleymaniye Mosque

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the Tour Guide Be Able to Provide Translation Services?

Yes, the tour guide will provide translation services. As a professional licensed guide, they can translate the tour information and commentary into the preferred language of your to ensure a seamless and informative experience.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Sites?

Yes, the tour can be customized to include additional sites. The private tour format allows for flexibility to modify the itinerary based on the traveler’s interests and preferences. Simply discuss any desired changes with the tour operator.

Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?

Yes, there are discounts available for group bookings. The tour operator typically offers 5-10% off the per person rate for groups of 3 or more. The exact discount can be confirmed at the time of booking.

Are There Any Dietary Requirements the Tour Can Accommodate?

The tour can accommodate dietary requirements upon request, such as vegetarian, vegan, or halal meals. Guests should inform the tour provider of any special dietary needs when booking to ensure appropriate arrangements are made.

Can the Tour Be Rescheduled Due to Weather or Other Unforeseen Circumstances?

The tour can be rescheduled due to inclement weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Customers can contact the tour provider up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or to reschedule the tour.

The Sum Up

Enjoy Istanbul’s captivating past and vibrant present on this comprehensive 2-day private tour. Discover iconic landmarks, from the majestic Hagia Sophia to the bustling Grand Bazaar. Explore the city’s rich cultural heritage and encounter its diverse architectural wonders. This highlights tour provides a well-rounded experience, ensuring you make the most of your time in this enchanting city.

You can check availability for your dates here: