Explore Istanbul’s rich history and iconic landmarks on the captivating Istanbul Classics Eco Tour. This 3.5-hour guided experience takes small groups through the city’s Old Town, highlighting must-see sites like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. With expert commentary from licensed guides, you’ll uncover the cultural significance of these remarkable attractions. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or seeking a deeper understanding of Istanbul’s heritage, this tour promises an engaging and enlightening journey.

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Key Points

This guided tour focuses on the historical and cultural highlights of Istanbul’s Old City, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Grand Covered Bazaar.
The tour duration is 3.5 hours and is limited to a small group of up to 10 participants for a more personalized experience.
Licensed professional guides provide live commentary in English and offer skip-the-line access to the attractions.
Hotel pick-up from the city center is complimentary, but entrance fees to Hagia Sophia are not included in the tour price.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and head coverings are required during the mosque visit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Istanbul Classics Eco Tour offers guided sightseeing for a price starting from $43.78 per person.

Guided sightseeing in Istanbul starting from $43.78 per person with the Istanbul Classics Eco Tour.

The 3.5-hour small-group tour is limited to 10 participants and provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve now and pay later.

The tour starts at Tamara Restaurant and visits the Blue Mosque, Obelisk of Theodosius III, Hagia Sophia, and the Grand Bazaar. A licensed professional guide leads the tour in English and provides skip-the-line access.

Pick-up from city center hotels is free, but tips aren’t included. Comfortable shoes are recommended, and head coverings are required during mosque visits.

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Itinerary Highlights

Starting at Tamara Restaurant, the tour takes guests on a 3.5-hour journey through the heart of Istanbul’s Old City.

Highlights include:

A guided tour of the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, for 20 minutes.
A guided visit to the Obelisk of Theodosius III, lasting 25 minutes.
An hour-long guided tour of the Hagia Sophia, with guests purchasing their own entrance tickets.
A shopping opportunity at the Grand Bazaar, a major commercial center.
Additional sights like the Serpent Column and Hippodrome along the way.

Tour Features

Licensed professional guides lead the Istanbul Classics Eco Tour, providing live commentary in English. They’ll skip the ticket lines, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Complimentary hotel pick-ups from the city center make getting to the starting point a breeze. Tips aren’t included, allowing flexibility for guests.

| Tour Features | |

| — | — |

| Licensed professional guide | Live tour guide in English |

| Skip the ticket line for attractions | Free pick-up from city center hotels |

This immersive tour explores the heart of Istanbul’s Old City, significant for its Byzantine and Ottoman history. Prepare for an engaging journey through architectural marvels and cultural treasures.

Cultural Insights and Attractions

This immersive tour explores the heart of Istanbul’s Old City, significant for its Byzantine and Ottoman history.

Guests marvel at the architectural wonder of Hagia Sophia, a basilica constructed in the 6th century. They also visit the iconic Blue Mosque, notable for its blue İznik tiles and six minarets, built for Sultan Ahmet.

The tour includes:

Exploring the Grand Covered Bazaar, a major shopping center with nearly 4000 shops offering antiques, jewelry, carpets, leatherware, and souvenirs
Seeing the Serpent Column and Hippodrome, historical sites from the Byzantine era
Learning about the cultural significance of these iconic landmarks from a licensed professional guide.

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Important Information for Tourists

Although this is a walking tour, guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes for the duration.

Head coverings are required during mosque visits. Entrance to Hagia Sophia isn’t included in the tour price, so guests must purchase tickets themselves.

Head coverings are mandatory during mosque visits. Hagia Sophia entrance fees are not included in the tour price.

The tour terminates at the Grand Covered Bazaar. Guests should look for the Plan Tours guide and vehicles at the meeting point.

Based on customer reviews, this tour has an overall rating of 5/5 from 1 review.

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Tour Start Location and Meeting Point

The Istanbul Classics Eco Tour begins at Tamara Restaurant, where guests should look for the Plan Tours guide and vehicles. Meeting the guide at this central location ensures a smooth start to the 3.5-hour journey through Istanbul’s historic district.

Travelers can expect a licensed, professional guide who’ll lead the small group, limited to 10 participants.
The tour offers the convenience of skip-the-line access to the major attractions.
Free hotel pickup in the city center is available for added ease.
Guests should wear comfortable shoes, as this is a walking tour.
Tips aren’t included in the tour price.

Customer Reviews

Travelers have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback on the Istanbul Classics Eco Tour, awarding it a perfect 5/5 rating based on a single review.

The reviewer praised the knowledgeable and engaging guide, who brought the city’s rich history to life with insightful commentary.

The tour’s pacing and itinerary were also highlighted as ideal, allowing participants to explore the top attractions at a comfortable pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Guide Required to Speak My Native Language?

The tour guide is required to speak English as the tour is offered with a live English-speaking guide. However, the guide may not necessarily speak the visitor’s native language.

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Small Group?

Customers can request a private tour instead of a small group. However, this may come at an additional cost. The tour operator can provide more details on private tour options and pricing upon request.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour, but visitors should avoid disrupting the group or taking photos within religious sites without permission. It’s best to check with the guide about any specific restrictions.

What Is the Dress Code for Entering Religious Sites?

For visiting religious sites, guests must wear appropriate clothing. This typically means covering the head, shoulders, and knees. The tour operator provides guidance on the dress code to ensure respectful visits to the mosques.

Are Any Food or Drink Options Provided During the Tour?

The tour does not include any food or drink options. Guests are responsible for purchasing their own meals and refreshments during the 3.5-hour tour. The focus is on exploring the historical sights and attractions.

The Sum Up

The Istanbul Classics Eco Tour offers a captivating 3.5-hour guided experience, showcasing the city’s iconic landmarks and rich history. With knowledgeable guides, small group sizes, and a focus on eco-friendly practices, this tour provides an immersive and memorable exploration of Istanbul’s Old City. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the cultural and historical significance of this remarkable destination.