Istanbul Old City Sightseeing Tour (Entry Fees Inculuding)

Uncover the captivating history and vibrant culture of Istanbul’s Old City with this comprehensive sightseeing tour. From the iconic Hagia Sophia to the mesmerizing Underground Cistern, this excursion promises to immerse you in the city’s rich architectural and archaeological wonders. Led by an expert art historian, the journey also includes a delightful local lunch and exploration of the bustling Grand Bazaar, offering a well-rounded experience. What secrets and surprises await in this legendary metropolis?

Key Points

• A full-day small-group sightseeing tour of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, including Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar.
• Tour led by a professional art historian for a personalized and informative experience.
• Inclusion of entry fees to major attractions and a delectable 3-course local lunch.
• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off service on the European side.
• Accommodations available for families with strollers and infant seats, but not wheelchair accessible.

Tour Overview

This full-day small-group sightseeing tour takes visitors on a journey through Istanbul’s captivating old city.

Led by a professional art historian, the tour visits iconic landmarks like the magnificent Hagia Sophia, the mysterious Underground Cistern, the ancient Roman-era Hippodrome, the stunning Blue Mosque, the opulent Topkapi Palace, and the bustling Grand Bazaar.

With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour ensures a personalized experience. Included in the tour are a 3-course local lunch, entry fees for key attractions, and hotel pickup and drop-off from selected hotels on the European side.

The tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Istanbul’s rich history and culture.

Inclusions

The tour includes a delectable 3-course local lunch, providing travelers a chance to savor authentic Turkish cuisine.

Entry fees for the iconic Hagia Sophia Mosque/Museum and the captivating Underground Cistern are also covered.

Expert driver/guide services ensure a seamless and informative experience.

Hotel pickup and drop-off on the European side are provided for added convenience.

While alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, the tour focuses on immersing guests in the rich cultural heritage of Istanbul’s old city through its remarkable landmarks and experiences.

Pickup Information

Free transfer service from city center hotels on the European side is provided for tour participants.

The tour starts at 9:00 AM, so you’ll be picked up from your hotel and transported to the starting point.

The tour starts at 9:00 AM, and you’ll be picked up from your hotel and transported to the starting point.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers and infant seats are available. Infants must sit on laps during the tour.

It’s important to arrive on time, as the tour won’t wait for late arrivals.

The pickup service is included in the tour price, making it convenient for travelers to join the tour without the hassle of arranging their own transportation.

Accessibility and Special Requirements

Although the tour is not wheelchair accessible, strollers and infant seats are available for those who need them. Infants must sit on laps during the tour. The accessibility details are summarized in the table below:

| Accessibility | Available | Not Available |

|—————-|———–|—————|

| Wheelchair | | ✓ |

| Stroller | ✓ | |

| Infant Seats | ✓ | |

This comprehensive sightseeing tour is designed to ensure all guests can participate and enjoy the iconic landmarks of Istanbul’s old city, with accommodations made for families and those with special requirements.

Reviews and Ratings

This tour has received 3 reviews, with an overall rating of 4.0 out of 5.

The majority of reviewers found the tour interesting, with one notable exception. Some guides, it seems, didn’t follow the advertised route, missing key attractions like the Basilica Cistern. This is an important consideration for those seeking a comprehensive sightseeing experience.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and a "reserve now, pay later" option, which provides flexibility.

At $132.22 per person, the tour appears reasonably priced for the inclusions and small-group setting offered.

Tour Highlights: Hagia Sophia

As the crown jewel of Istanbul’s historical attractions, the Hagia Sophia is a must-see for visitors. This architectural masterpiece has served as a church, mosque, and museum over its 1,500-year history. Visitors can marvel at its massive domed structure, intricate mosaics, and impressive Byzantine-era architecture. The building’s rich history and cultural significance make it a highlight of any Istanbul tour.

| Hagia Sophia Highlights |

| — | — | — |

| – 6th century Byzantine architecture | – Massive 55-meter high central dome | – Ornate Christian mosaics |

| – Former Orthodox Christian cathedral | – Converted to a mosque in the 15th century | – Now a museum open to the public |

Tour Highlights: Underground Cistern

Beneath the bustling streets of Istanbul’s historic center lies the Underground Cistern, an awe-inspiring Byzantine-era water storage structure.

Descending the marble staircase, visitors are greeted by the cavernous expanse, supported by rows of Corinthian columns.

The highlights include:

Marble columns, soft lighting, mirrored reflection pool, and historical significance make the Underground Cistern a captivating experience.

1. Marble Columns: Over 300 columns, some with Medusa heads, create an ethereal atmosphere.

2. Illumination: Soft lighting casts a magical glow, enhancing the cistern’s serene ambiance.

3. Reflection Pool: The mirrored surface reflects the columns, creating a mesmerizing visual effect.

4. Historical Significance: This engineering marvel provided water to the Byzantine palace for centuries.

Exploring the Underground Cistern is a captivating and unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into Istanbul’s rich history.

Tour Highlights: Topkapi Palace

The Topkapi Palace stands as a renowned imperial residence and one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks.

Visitors can explore the lavish grounds and inspect the palace’s opulent architecture, which blends Ottoman, Byzantine, and Islamic styles.

Within the palace, they’ll discover the Sacred Relics Treasury, home to revered religious artifacts like the Prophet Muhammad’s cloak and sword.

Touring the Topkapi Palace offers a glimpse into the grandeur and power of the Ottoman Empire, showcasing the sultan’s lavish lifestyle and providing a window into the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

The tour has a maximum group size of 15 travelers. The small-group setting allows for a more personalized experience with the professional art historian guide leading the sightseeing through Istanbul’s iconic landmarks.

Do the Entry Fees Cover Both Skip-The-Line Access and Guided Tours?

The entry fees cover both skip-the-line access and guided tours of the attractions. This ensures a seamless experience without the hassle of buying tickets separately and allows travelers to make the most of their time.

Are There Any Options for Vegetarian or Halal Meals During the Lunch?

The tour provides a 3-course local lunch, but it doesn’t specify if there are vegetarian or halal meal options. Travelers with dietary restrictions should check with the tour operator ahead of time to ensure their needs can be accommodated.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Visit Specific Sites Based on Traveler Interests?

The tour can likely be customized to visit specific sites based on traveler interests, though this may incur additional costs. Travelers should check with the tour operator about the possibility and any associated fees.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour provider doesn’t offer any discounts for seniors or students. However, they do have a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour, which could provide some flexibility for budget-conscious travelers.

The Sum Up

Discover the rich heritage of Istanbul on this comprehensive tour. Explore iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, learn about the bustling Grand Bazaar, and enjoy a delightful local lunch. Led by an expert art historian, this small-group experience offers a personalized and enriching introduction to the city’s vibrant culture and history.