Istanbul: Full-Day Old City Tour With Lunch and Transfers

Explore the captivating history of Istanbul on a full-day guided tour of the city’s Old Town. Visiting iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace, you’ll uncover over 2,000 years of rich cultural heritage. With convenient hotel transfers and a delicious lunch included, this immersive experience offers an effortless way to dive into Istanbul’s vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour promises to unveil the enchanting layers of the city’s past.

Key Points

• Comprehensive full-day tour of Istanbul’s Old City, covering major historical sites like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Hippodrome, Topkapi Palace, and Grand Bazaar.
• Tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a delicious lunch, and entry fees to the attractions.
• Led by an English-speaking guide who provides engaging commentary on the Byzantine and Ottoman empires.
• Opportunity to explore over 2,000 years of history and capture memorable moments at significant historical locations.
• Tour highlights Istanbul’s rich cultural and architectural heritage, with efficient exploration and hassle-free experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The full-day Istanbul Classic City Tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the city’s key historical sites over the course of 8 hours.

Priced from $210 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a delicious lunch, and entry fees to top attractions like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Hippodrome, Topkapi Palace, and Grand Bazaar.

Priced from $210 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a delicious lunch, and entry fees to top attractions.

An English-speaking guide leads the way, sharing engaging narratives about the Byzantine and Ottoman empires.

Guests can expect to capture memorable moments at these significant locations and learn about the lives of Roman emperors and Ottoman sultans.

Key Historical Sites

Participants on the Istanbul Classic City Tour will visit key sites that showcase the city’s rich Byzantine and Ottoman history.

They’ll explore the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, with its iconic blue tiles and six minarets.

Next, they’ll marvel at the architectural grandeur of Hagia Sophia, the former Byzantine church and Ottoman mosque.

The Roman Hippodrome, site of ancient chariot races, offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant past.

Finally, they’ll discover the opulent Topkapi Palace, the residence of Ottoman Sultans, and the bustling Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest covered markets.

Highlights of the Tour

One of the highlights of the Istanbul Classic City Tour is the opportunity to explore over 2,000 years of history, from the Roman Empire to the Ottoman Empire.

Guests will learn about the lives of Roman Emperors and Ottoman Sultans from passionate, English-speaking tour guides.

Visitors can capture memorable moments at significant historical locations, including the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, the Hagia Sophia, the Roman Hippodrome, the Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar.

The tour provides an engaging and immersive experience, allowing travelers to fully appreciate the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Istanbul.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a delicious lunch, and entry fees to all the attractions visited. However, it excludes personal expenses, tips, and beverages.

• Travelers can expect a hassle-free experience with transportation provided to and from their hotel.

• A local, English-speaking guide will provide engaging commentary throughout the day.

• Entry to iconic sites like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace is covered.

• Guests can explore the vibrant Grand Bazaar without worrying about additional costs.

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Important Information

Travelers should note that the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are closed on Fridays, while the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.

Plus, Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays. Participants should prepare for extensive walking, as the vehicle is only used for necessary parts of the tour.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. It’s important to arrive in the hotel lobby 15 minutes before the scheduled pickup time.

Tour highlights include exploring historical sites from the Roman to Ottoman empires and capturing memorable moments at significant locations.

Getting Around the City

How does one navigate the historic streets of Istanbul during the Old City tour? The tour guide leads the way, walking briskly through bustling markets and narrow alleyways.

Comfortable shoes are essential, as:

• The tour involves extensive walking to fully experience the city’s landmarks.

• Vehicles are used only when necessary, such as for transportation between sites.

• Navigating the crowded Grand Bazaar and Sultanahmet Square requires agility and attentiveness.

• Being prepared for the elements, such as sun or rain, enhances the overall tour experience.

The guide’s expertise ensures an efficient, informative, and memorable exploration of Istanbul’s Old City.

What to Expect on the Tour

Visitors can expect an immersive journey through Istanbul’s rich history and cultural heritage on this comprehensive Old City tour.

The itinerary covers the city’s key landmarks, including the stunning Blue Mosque, the iconic Hagia Sophia, the ancient Hippodrome, the opulent Topkapi Palace, and the bustling Grand Bazaar.

Along the way, a knowledgeable guide will bring the stories of Roman emperors and Ottoman sultans to life through engaging commentary.

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves extensive exploration on foot.

Lunch and transportation are included, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Booking this tour can be done with ease, as travelers have the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This policy ensures peace of mind for those who may need to change their plans.

However, it’s essential to keep in mind that certain sites, like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace, have specific closure days, so planning accordingly is crucial.

Plus, the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays, and the tour involves a significant amount of walking, with the vehicle used only for necessary parts of the journey.

• Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia closed on Fridays

• Grand Bazaar closed on Sundays

• Topkapi Palace closed on Tuesdays

• Prepare for a walking-intensive tour

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Dress Code for the Mosques?

There’s a dress code for visiting mosques. Visitors should wear long pants or skirts and cover their heads and shoulders. Modest, loose-fitting clothing is required to enter the sacred spaces.

Can We Take Photos Inside the Historical Sites?

Visitors are generally allowed to take photos inside the historical sites, except during prayer times. However, they should avoid disrupting services and be respectful of the sites’ religious and cultural significance.

What Currency Should We Bring for the Grand Bazaar?

The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul accepts the local Turkish lira as the primary currency. Visitors should bring enough lira to comfortably cover purchases and transactions within the market. Credit cards may also be accepted in some stores.

How Accessible Are the Sites for Elderly or Disabled Visitors?

The sites on the tour have varying levels of accessibility for elderly or disabled visitors. Some, like the Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar, may be challenging due to steps and crowds. Advance planning and assistance are recommended to ensure a comfortable experience.

Are Audio Guides Available for Self-Exploration After the Tour?

Audio guides aren’t mentioned, but visitors can explore sites independently after the guided tour. The tour focuses on accessibility, with vehicle transport used as needed, making it suitable for elderly or disabled guests.

The Sum Up

The Full-Day Old City Tour in Istanbul offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to discover the city’s rich historical and cultural heritage. With a knowledgeable guide, travelers can explore iconic landmarks, savor a delicious lunch, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar. This tour provides a convenient and comprehensive way to make the most of a day in the enchanting city of Istanbul.

You can check availability for your dates here: