Istanbul, the captivating city that straddles Europe and Asia, offers a wealth of historical and cultural treasures. The "Best of Istanbul Tour" promises to unveil the city’s most iconic sights, from the grandeur of Topkapi Palace to the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia. With skip-the-line access and an expert guide, this tour ensures a seamless and enriching experience. Discover the vibrant Grand Bazaar, savor a delicious lunch, and uncover the fascinating stories that have shaped this dynamic metropolis. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this tour promises to leave you captivated by the beauty and complexity of Istanbul.

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Key Points

A 7-hour guided tour exploring the top historical and cultural attractions in Istanbul, including skip-the-line access to sites like Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia.
The tour is priced from €183.00 per person and has a maximum group size of 10 participants.
The itinerary includes stops at the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar, with guided visits and insights at each location.
Lunch in the Sultanahmet District and a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance are included in the tour package.
The tour is led by a live, English-speaking guide and includes all entrance tickets, transportation, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The "Best of Istanbul Tour" is a 7-hour guided experience that explores the city’s top historical and cultural attractions.

Priced from €183.00 per person, the tour has a maximum group size of 10 participants. It offers skip-the-line access and guided tours of key sites like the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar.

Lunch in the Sultanahmet District is included, and travelers can take advantage of the tour’s free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

Guests can reserve their spots now and pay later, making it a convenient and comprehensive Istanbul sightseeing experience.

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Itinerary and Highlights

Starting at the German Fountain, the "Best of Istanbul Tour" takes visitors on a journey through the city’s iconic landmarks and historical sites.

The tour includes stops at the Hippodrome, a former Roman horse racing track, and the stunning Blue Mosque, known for its 27,000 Iznik tiles.

Visitors will then explore the Hagia Sophia, a remarkable 6th-century architectural marvel that has played a significant role in both Christian and Islamic history.

The tour continues to the Topkapi Palace, the former imperial residence that houses art and holy relics.

The final stop is the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest covered markets in the world, established in the 15th century.

Guided Tour Details

A live, English-speaking guide leads the tour and provides guided visits at each site. The tour includes skip-the-line access, allowing for faster entry.

A knowledgeable, English-speaking guide leads the tour and provides guided visits at each site, with skip-the-line access for faster entry.

At Topkapi Palace, the guide leads a 2-hour tour, highlighting the palace’s history and treasures. The 1-hour tour of Hagia Sophia explores its architectural marvels and religious significance.

Guests spend 1 hour at the Blue Mosque, learning about its design and famous Iznik tiles.

The tour also includes a 45-minute visit to Sultanahmet Square and a 1-hour guided stroll through the Grand Bazaar‘s vast, covered marketplace.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes a licensed private guide, all entrance tickets to the museums, a lunch in the Sultanahmet district, hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as transportation.

However, drinks and personal expenses aren’t included. Plus, gratuities for the guide and driver are excluded from the tour price.

Participants are responsible for any additional costs or optional activities not specified in the inclusions.

The tour’s pricing reflects the comprehensive nature of the experience, ensuring visitors can focus on exploring the highlights of Istanbul without worrying about additional fees.

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Meeting Point and Directions

The meeting location for the tour is in front of the German Fountain at Hippodrome Square. The tour guide will hold a sign with the company logo and tour name to help participants identify the group. Participants should arrive by 9:00 AM, as the tour starts promptly at 9:15 AM.

| Important Details | |

| —————– | ————— |

| Meeting Location | German Fountain |

| Meeting Time | 9:00 AM |

| Tour Start Time | 9:15 AM |

| Guide Identifier | Company sign |

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Exploring the Hippodrome

From the German Fountain, participants follow their guide into the ancient Hippodrome, the former horse racing stadium that was the heart of Constantinople’s civic life during the Byzantine era.

This massive arena, once able to seat over 100,000 spectators, hosted chariot races and other public events that were central to the city’s culture and entertainment.

The guide explains the Hippodrome’s history and points out remnants of its former grandeur, including Egyptian obelisks and a serpentine column that once supported a golden tripod.

The guide recounts the Hippodrome’s storied past, highlighting its impressive relics like Egyptian obelisks and a serpentine column that once held a golden tripod.

Participants take in the impressive scale of this ancient site before moving on to the next stop on the tour.

Marveling at the Blue Mosque

After exploring the ancient Hippodrome, the tour group makes its way to the iconic Blue Mosque.

This stunning 17th-century mosque is known for its intricate interior, featuring over 27,000 handmade Iznik tiles in various patterns and colors.

The guide explains the architectural significance of the mosque’s six minarets and massive central dome, which floods the prayer hall with natural light.

Visitors marvel at the serene atmosphere as they learn about the mosque’s history and the role it plays in Istanbul’s cultural and religious heritage.

The tour group spends an hour immersed in the beauty and tranquility of this iconic landmark.

Discovering the Hagia Sophia

Leaving the serene atmosphere of the Blue Mosque, the group makes its way to the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia. This 6th-century architectural marvel has played a significant role in both Christian and Islamic history.

Visitors are captivated by its grand scale, intricate mosaics, and stunning Byzantine design. The guided tour provides insights into:

Its transformation from a church to a mosque and now a museum.
The impressive engineering feats that enabled its construction.
The stunning mosaics that adorn its interior walls and ceilings.
The historical and cultural significance of this iconic Istanbul landmark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Purchase Tickets to the Tour Sites Separately?

The tour tickets are included in the package price. Purchasing separate tickets to the individual tour sites is generally not possible, as the tour provides skip-the-line access and guided experiences at each location as part of the overall experience.

Do I Need to Bring a Camera or Is Photography Allowed?

Photography is generally allowed on this tour, so you’re welcome to bring a camera. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour guide for any restrictions at specific sites during the tour.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Special Accommodations for Children?

The tour generally welcomes children of all ages, but there may be some activities or parts of the tour that aren’t suitable for very young kids. Travelers should inquire about any age restrictions or special accommodations needed when booking.

Can I Leave the Tour Group at Any Time to Explore on My Own?

Participants can’t leave the tour group at any time to explore on their own. The tour has a fixed itinerary and schedule that must be followed. Guests are expected to stay with the group throughout the entire 7-hour tour.

What Should I Wear to Be Comfortable During the Tour?

To be comfortable during the tour, it’s best to wear lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes. Avoid wearing high heels or restrictive clothing, as the tour involves extensive walking through historical sites.

The Sum Up

The "Best of Istanbul Tour" offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the city’s captivating history and vibrant culture. With skip-the-line access, a delightful lunch, and an expert guide, this tour provides an unforgettable glimpse into the iconic landmarks of Istanbul, from the Topkapi Palace to the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia. Whether you’re a first-time or seasoned traveler, this tour promises an enriching and memorable day in this enchanting city.

You can check availability for your dates here: