Istanbul Highlights Private Guided Tour With Snacks and Transfers

Exploring the iconic landmarks of Istanbul has never been more seamless and engaging. With the Istanbul Highlights Private Guided Tour, we’ll uncover the city’s rich history and vibrant culture, delving into the captivating Hippodrome, the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, and the stunning Blue Mosque. Along the way, we’ll savor a delightful Turkish snack and sip on a refreshing tea or coffee, all while our expert guide shares their insights. Prepare to be immersed in the heart of this vibrant city, as we embark on a truly memorable journey.

Key Points

• This private guided tour of Istanbul’s iconic sites, such as Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, offers a personalized and in-depth exploration of the city’s rich history and culture.
• The tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel or cruise port, as well as entry to popular attractions like the Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace (for full-day tours).
• Enjoy a traditional Turkish snack of borek or simit with tea or coffee during the tour, providing a taste of the local cuisine.
• The tour is led by an expert guide who can tailor the itinerary to your interests and provide valuable insights throughout the experience.
• Accessibility features like wheelchair and stroller access, as well as adjustments for mosque closures and alternative bazaar options, ensure a comfortable and seamless tour.

Tour Overview

The Istanbul Highlights Tour is a private guided tour that allows visitors to explore the city’s most iconic sites in either a full-day or half-day option.

Recommended by 93% of travelers, this tour covers the Sultanahmet neighborhood, Hippodrome, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, and Grand Bazaar.

For full-day tours, Topkapi Palace can be added.

With an expert guide, travelers will gain valuable insights into the city’s rich history and culture.

Whether you choose the full-day or half-day option, this tour is an excellent way to experience the highlights of Istanbul.

Inclusions and Fees

The Istanbul Highlights Tour includes several key services and fees.

We’ll pick you up and drop you off at your hotel or cruise port, making transportation a breeze.

During the tour, you’ll enjoy:

• Entry to the iconic Basilica Cistern, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace (full-day tours)
• A delightful Turkish snack of borek or simit with tea or coffee
• The expertise of a private, official tour guide to bring the city’s history to life

While gratuities aren’t included, we aim to provide an unforgettable experience that exceeds your expectations.

Meeting and Pickup Details

Guides can meet you at city centers, using tram, metro, or taxi based on your hotel location.

The meeting point is Pudding Shop Lale Restaurant, near the Sultanahmet tram stop. From there, we’ll explore the highlights of Istanbul together on a private walking tour.

At the end of the tour, we’ll return you to the same meeting point.

Pickup and drop-off are included, ensuring a seamless start and finish to your experience.

If necessary, we’ll coordinate transportation via public transit or taxi to get you to the meeting point and back to your hotel or port.

Accessibility and Special Considerations

Wheelchair and stroller access is available for this tour, and we can provide infant seats upon request.

On Fridays, when mosques are closed until 2 PM, we recommend starting half-day tours after 11 AM. Plus, the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays, but we can provide alternative bazaar options.

Some key considerations to keep in mind:

• The Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays, so it won’t be included in half-day tours. However, we offer a Bosphorus Tour as an alternative.

• For full-day tours, entry fees to popular sites like the Basilica Cistern, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace are included.

• Gratuities for the guide aren’t included in the tour price.

Traveler Experiences and Reviews

How do travelers rate their experiences on the Istanbul Highlights Tour? Based on over 100 reviews, the tour has garnered high praise from previous participants.

Many commend the knowledgeable and accommodating guides, who enhance the overall experience with their historical insights and ability to navigate crowds effectively.

Some travelers, however, noted issues with pickup organization and meeting point clarity.

The tour receives positive feedback on its personalized itineraries and flexibility in adjusting plans based on traveler interests.

With 93% of travelers recommending the tour, it’s a popular choice for discovering Istanbul’s top sights.

Tour Itinerary

The Istanbul Highlights Tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the city’s most iconic landmarks.

We’ll explore the Sultanahmet neighborhood, home to the stunning Hagia Sophia and the serene Blue Mosque.

At the Basilica Cistern, we’ll marvel at the eerie yet captivating underground structure.

And no visit to Istanbul is complete without wandering the bustling Grand Bazaar, where you can shop for unique souvenirs and learn about the vibrant local culture.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour provides an unforgettable glimpse into the rich history and vibrant spirit of Istanbul.

About the Tour Guide

Our expert tour guides are the heart and soul of the Istanbul Highlights Tour. Drawing from their deep knowledge and passion for the city, they captivate travelers with engaging narratives that bring the history and culture to life.

Qualifications	Experience
Licensed, professional tour guides	Average of 10+ years guiding in Istanbul
Fluent in multiple languages	Exceptional communication skills

Their personalized approach ensures each tour is tailored to individual interests and preferences. With their insider tips and crowd-navigating expertise, our guides elevate the experience, leaving guests with unforgettable memories of Istanbul.

What to Expect on the Tour

Embarking on the Istanbul Highlights Tour is a captivating adventure that immerses you in the city’s rich historical tapestry.

You’ll explore iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Basilica Cistern, uncovering the stories that have shaped this dynamic metropolis. Along the way, you’ll indulge in local delicacies, savoring the flavors that define Turkish culture.

The tour offers a seamless experience, with efficient transportation and an expert guide to navigate the crowds and provide invaluable insights.

Prepare to be captivated by:

• The grandeur of the Topkapi Palace
• The bustling energy of the Grand Bazaar
• The serene beauty of the Bosphorus waterway

The Sum Up

Explore Istanbul’s iconic landmarks with a private guided tour that offers a seamless and engaging experience. Enjoy convenient hotel or cruise port pickups, entry fees, and delightful Turkish snacks and refreshments. With an expert guide sharing insights, you’ll learn about the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. This comprehensive tour is an excellent way to make the most of your time in this captivating destination.