Istanbul Highlights Small Group or Private Guided Tour With Drink

The Istanbul Highlights Small Group or Private Guided Tour offers travelers an immersive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks. Led by knowledgeable local guides, this tour takes visitors through the historic Hippodrome, the stunning Blue Mosque, the serene Basilica Cistern, and the magnificent Hagia Sophia. With the convenience of skip-the-line access and a complimentary Turkish drink, this tour promises an intimate and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to uncover the rich cultural heritage of Istanbul, this tour is sure to leave you captivated and eager to discover more.

About Your Stay

• This half-day guided tour of Istanbul’s Old City covers top attractions like Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar.
• The tour provides skip-the-line access to Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern, maximizing exploration time.
• Professional local guides offer personal insights and a deep understanding of Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage.
• Tea or Turkish coffee is included during the tour, providing a refreshing break.
• The tour is available in small group or private options, catering to different travel preferences.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The half-day guided tour of Istanbul’s Old City offers visitors the chance to explore the city’s iconic sites.

Travelers will visit the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, Hagia Sophia, and the Grand Bazaar.

This small-group experience is recommended by 97% of past participants, who praise the knowledgeable local guides for providing personal insights.

The tour’s highlights include skipping ticket lines at Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern, allowing for more time to immerse in the history and architecture.

With a maximum of 15 travelers, this intimate tour provides an in-depth look at Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage.

Inclusions and Costs

The tour includes a professional guide who provides tea or Turkish coffee, along with entry fees to the Hagia Sophia (25 Euros) and the Basilica Cistern (900 TL, increasing to 1300 TL in February 2025).

Skipping the ticket lines at these iconic sites is also included. Hotel pickup and drop-off are provided, but tipping the guide is customary and not part of the tour price.

The tour offers excellent value, as it covers the top attractions in Istanbul’s Old City, allowing visitors to maximize their sightseeing time and gain insights from the knowledgeable local guides.

Meeting Points and Accessibility

Meeting point for the tour is Pudding Shop Lale Restaurant, located near the Sultanahmet tram stop.

From there, the tour ends at the Grand Bazaar.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller friendly.

The convenient location near public transportation makes it easy for travelers to access the meeting point.

Tour Schedule and Adjustments

Small group tours generally start at 10 AM, with a 2 PM option on Fridays. Private tour timing is flexible to accommodate traveler schedules. The tour itinerary may adjust when the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays, visiting the Spice Bazaar instead. Alternative sites are shown during religious festivals when the bazaars are closed. This ensures guests have a comprehensive experience regardless of the day or timing.

Tour Schedule	Small Group	Private
Start Time	10 AM	Flexible
Friday Start	2 PM	Flexible
Bazaar Closed	Spice Bazaar	Spice Bazaar
Festivals	Alternative Sites	Alternative Sites

Questions About Your Stay

Is the Tour Available in Different Languages?

The tour is available in multiple languages. Guests can choose from English, Spanish, German, French, and Italian. The local guides are fluent in these languages, providing a personalized and enriching experience for all visitors.

Can We Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, photography is allowed during the tour. Guests are encouraged to take photos of the iconic sights and capture their experiences. However, certain restrictions may apply in specific sites, which the guides will inform participants about.

Is There a Dress Code for the Religious Sites?

There’s a modest dress code for the religious sites on the tour. Visitors should cover their shoulders and knees, and women should cover their heads when entering the Blue Mosque. The tour guides can provide any necessary attire.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Attraction?

The tour spends approximately 1-1.5 hours at each major attraction, allowing ample time to explore and learn about the sites. The schedule is designed to maximize sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary for Private Tours?

Yes, private tours offer more flexibility to customize the itinerary based on traveler interests. Clients can discuss preferred sites, schedule, and pace with the local guide to tailor the experience to their needs.

Final Verdict On This Stay

This Istanbul Highlights tour offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the city’s iconic landmarks with the guidance of knowledgeable local experts. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the included drink adds a delightful touch to the journey. Whether traveling solo or with a group, this tour provides a convenient and enriching way to discover the rich cultural heritage of Istanbul’s Old City.