Istanbul’s rich history and captivating architecture come alive on this private walking tour. Explore iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, then embark on a scenic Bosphorus cruise. With skip-the-line access and expert commentary, you’ll uncover the city’s Ottoman heritage. But the real highlight might just be the breathtaking views waiting to be discovered.
Key Points
- This private walking tour of Istanbul’s Sultanahmet district covers iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.
- The tour includes a 90-minute Bosphorus cruise, showcasing sights such as Dolmabahçe Palace and Maiden Tower.
- Guests can choose between a 3.5-hour tour or a 4.5-hour extended version that includes the Grand Bazaar and Nuruosmaniye Mosque.
- The tour is led by a 5-star private guide who provides engaging commentary on Istanbul’s Ottoman heritage.
- The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and includes complimentary drinks during the Bosphorus cruise.
Tour Overview
This Istanbul Old City Private Walking Tour with Bosphorus Cruise offers a comprehensive exploration of the historical sights and vibrant atmosphere of Istanbul’s Old City.
The tour lasts 3.5 to 4.5 hours and is priced from $207.18 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
This Istanbul Old City Private Walking Tour lasts 3.5 to 4.5 hours and is priced from $207.18 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Guests enjoy a private walking tour of Sultanahmet, visiting landmarks like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, followed by a 90-minute Bosphorus cruise.
The extended tour option adds the Grand Bazaar and Nuruosmaniye Mosque.
Experienced guides provide in-depth information throughout the experience.
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Tour Highlights
The Istanbul Old City Private Walking Tour with Bosphorus Cruise offers a wealth of historical and cultural highlights.
Explore the iconic Blue Mosque, marvel at the architectural grandeur of Hagia Sophia, and learn about the vibrant atmosphere of the Egyptian Bazaar.
The tour includes:
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A 90-minute Bosphorus boat cruise with skip-the-line tickets, allowing you to admire landmarks like Dolmabahçe Palace, Maiden Tower, and Ortakoy Mosque from the water.
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An extended walking tour option that takes you to the Grand Bazaar and Nuruosmaniye Mosque, providing a deeper insight into the city’s Ottoman heritage.
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Engaging commentary from a 5-star private guide, who brings the history and culture of Istanbul to life.
Walking Tour Details
The Istanbul Old City Private Walking Tour offers visitors two distinct options – a 3.5-hour tour and a 4.5-hour extended version.
The 3.5-hour option includes a 2-hour walking tour followed by a 1.5-hour Bosphorus cruise.
The 4.5-hour extended version expands the walking tour to 3 hours, with the same 1.5-hour cruise.
Both options cover Turkish history from the Byzantine to Ottoman eras, and explore vibrant landmarks like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Egyptian Spice Market.
The extended tour also visits the Grand Bazaar and Nuruosmaniye Mosque, providing a more comprehensive sightseeing experience.
Bosphorus Cruise Experience
Sightseeing highlights of the Bosphorus cruise include Dolmabahçe Palace, Maiden Tower, Rumeli Fortress, Çiragan Palaces, Ortakoy Mosque, and the oldest Bosphorus Bridge.
Passengers can enjoy free tea or water onboard and have access to an audio guide available in multiple languages, including English, German, French, Spanish, and Russian.
The cruise provides a relaxing and informative way to experience the beauty of the Bosphorus Strait, one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks.
The Bosphorus cruise offers a relaxing and informative way to experience the beauty of this iconic Istanbul landmark.
The 1.5-hour cruise complements the walking tour, offering a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich history and stunning scenery.
More Great Tours NearbyIncluded Services and Amenities
This tour provides a range of included services and amenities to enhance the overall experience. A 90-minute Bosphorus cruise with skip-the-line tickets is included, allowing you to admire the stunning sights along the waterway. Onboard, you’ll enjoy complimentary tea or water. An audio guide is available in multiple languages for an informative cruise. To ensure a personalized experience, the walking tour is led by a 5-star private guide with a maximum of 25 guests.
| Services | Walking Tour | Bosphorus Cruise |
|———-|————–|——————|
| Duration | 2-3 hours | 1.5 hours |
| Guide | Private | Provided before |
| Tickets | Included | Skip-the-line |
| Drinks | N/A | Tea or water |
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Meeting Point and Logistics
As per the tour details, the meeting point for this Istanbul Old City Tour is the World Heritage Center Hotel, located at Alemdar, Divanyolu Caddesi in Istanbul.
The guide will accompany the group during the walking tour and provide information before the Bosphorus cruise. The tour has a maximum of 25 guests per licensed guide to ensure an optimal experience.
It’s recommended to check email prior to the tour for any important updates.
The key logistics are:
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Meeting point: World Heritage Center Hotel
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Guide accompanies during walking tour
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Maximum of 25 guests per licensed guide
Group Size and Guide Expertise
The tour limits the group size to a maximum of 25 guests per licensed guide, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
This small group size allows the guide to provide more attentive and engaging commentary, answering questions and catering to individual interests.
The guides are highly knowledgeable, having received extensive training on the history, culture, and landmarks of Istanbul’s Old City.
Their expertise ensures guests gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the sites visited, from the iconic Blue Mosque to the vibrant Egyptian Spice Market.
This combination of small group size and guide expertise elevates the overall tour experience.
Tour Cancellation and Refund Policy
Travelers can conveniently cancel their Istanbul Old City Tour up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility should plans change.
This tour offers three key benefits:
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, ensuring a hassle-free experience if schedules need to be adjusted.
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Customers have the option to reserve now and pay later, offering added convenience.
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With the pay later option, travelers can secure their spot without immediate payment, allowing more time to finalize travel arrangements.
This cancellation policy and payment flexibility make booking the Istanbul Old City Tour a stress-free process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour to My Interests?
Yes, travelers can customize the tour to their interests. The tour operator offers an extended walking tour option that includes the Grand Bazaar and Nuruosmaniye Mosque, catering to visitors’ preferences.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
There’s no strict dress code, but it’s recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing suitable for the weather. Avoid overly casual attire like shorts or tank tops to show respect at the historical sites.
Are There Any Physical Requirements for the Walking Tour?
The walking tour does not have any strict physical requirements, but participants should be able to comfortably walk for several hours. Those with mobility issues may opt for the shorter tour duration or request accommodations.
Can I Take Photographs During the Cruise?
Yes, guests are welcome to take photographs during the Bosphorus cruise. The cruise offers scenic views of landmarks along the waterway, providing ample opportunities for capturing memorable photos. Audio guides are available to enhance the sightseeing experience.
How Accessible Is the Tour for People With Disabilities?
The tour aims to be accessible for guests with disabilities. Wheelchair users can join the walking tour, and accessible seating is available on the Bosphorus cruise. Guests should contact the tour operator in advance to discuss any special needs.
The Sum Up
This immersive Istanbul tour offers a captivating blend of history, architecture, and scenic beauty. Guests can explore iconic landmarks, cruise along the Bosphorus, and enjoy engaging commentary from a private guide. With skip-the-line access and complimentary drinks, it’s an exceptional way to discover the city’s rich Ottoman heritage and breathtaking views. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour promises an unforgettable experience.
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