Istanbul Old City to Grand Bazaar Tour

Istanbul’s historic Old City and bustling Grand Bazaar are two of the city’s must-see attractions. This guided tour provides an immersive journey through the region’s iconic landmarks and vibrant marketplace. With expert commentary, travelers will gain a deeper understanding of the city’s rich cultural tapestry. From the architectural marvels of Hagia Sophia to the endless array of vendors at the Grand Bazaar, this experience promises to leave a lasting impression. What intrigues you most about exploring Istanbul’s storied past and lively present?

Key Points

• A 7-hour guided tour exploring the highlights of Istanbul’s Old City, including Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar.
• The tour provides transportation from centrally located hotels on the European side of Istanbul.
• The tour offers flexibility with alternative stops in case certain attractions are closed.
• The tour guides provide insights into the architecture and historical significance of the visited sites.
• The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments due to extensive walking and uneven terrain.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The "Istanbul Old City to Grand Bazaar Tour" offers an immersive exploration of Istanbul’s historic landmarks. Priced from €100.00 per person, the 7-hour tour is available in English, Spanish, and German.

Pickup is included from centrally located hotels on the European side of Istanbul, and there’s a flexible cancellation policy.

Highlights include guided tours of Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar.

Alternative stops and substitutions are available if certain attractions are closed. Transportation, guide services, and entrance fees are all included in the tour package.

Itinerary Highlights

As part of the Istanbul Old City to Grand Bazaar Tour, visitors explore several iconic landmarks.

The tour includes guided visits to the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. Guests spend 40 minutes at each of the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, gaining insights into their remarkable architecture and historical significance.

The highlight is a 2-hour guided tour of the Topkapi Palace, where visitors discover the former residence of Ottoman sultans.

The tour culminates with a 1-hour guided exploration of the vibrant Grand Bazaar, an immersive experience in the heart of Istanbul’s old city.

Transportation Details

The tour offers pickup from centrally located hotels on the European side of Istanbul, with options including Beşiktaş, Fatih, Kağıthane, Şişli, and Beyoğlu.

At the end of the tour, guests can be dropped off at various locations such as Fatih, Kağıthane, Şişli, Beyoğlu, and Beşiktaş.

All transportation, including the guided tour, is included in the price.

The tour provides a seamless experience, allowing guests to focus on exploring the city’s historical sights without the hassle of navigating the transportation system.

Important Information

Certain attractions on the tour have specific closure days that visitors should be aware of. The Hagia Sophia is closed on Mondays, the Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays, and the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.

Visitors should be aware that the Hagia Sophia is closed on Mondays, the Topkapi Palace on Tuesdays, and the Grand Bazaar on Sundays.

Plus, the Blue Mosque will be closed to visitors from March 1, 2018, to May 15, 2018, for renovations, with only exterior views available during this time.

Lastly, this tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, as the itinerary involves extensive walking and navigating uneven terrain.

Tour participants should consider these important details when booking and planning their visit.

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Customer Feedback

Visitors have overwhelmingly praised the Istanbul Old City Tour, awarding it an impressive 4.9 out of 5-star rating based on 7 reviews. Guests have highlighted the excellent tour guides, such as Erkut and Timer, who provided outstanding service and engaging commentary throughout the experience. The tour has been described as "super" and "very interesting," with reviewers praising the knowledgeable guides for their helpfulness and enriching insights. The Istanbul Old City Tour has received excellent customer feedback, showcasing its ability to deliver an exceptional sightseeing experience in the historic heart of Istanbul.

| Reviewer | Rating | Nationality | Comment |

| — | — | — | — |

| Uwe | 5/5 | German | "Erkut was a super guide… excellent tour, very interesting!" |

| Skip | 5/5 | American | "Timer, our guide, was outstanding! Very helpful throughout the tour." |

Tour Inclusions

This tour includes various services and amenities to enhance the sightseeing experience. Guests will enjoy:

1. Private transportation, with hotel pickup and drop-off, to ensure a comfortable and convenient journey.

2. Knowledgeable, English-speaking guides who provide insightful commentary on the city’s rich history and culture.

3. Prepaid entrance fees to major attractions, including Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar, eliminating the need for hassle at the ticket office.

The tour’s comprehensive itinerary, flexible scheduling, and efficient logistics make it an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive exploration of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks.

Booking Information

How can travelers book this Istanbul Old City Tour?

The tour can be booked online through the tour provider’s website or by contacting them directly. Customers have the option to reserve the tour now and pay later. A full refund is available if the reservation is canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour includes pickup from centrally located hotels on the European side of Istanbul. Travelers should note that the tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Food and Drink Included During the Tour?

Food and drink are not included during the tour. The tour package covers transportation, guided tours of the main attractions, and entrance fees. Participants are responsible for their own meals and refreshments throughout the day.

Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Customers can’t customize the tour itinerary. The tour operator provides a fixed itinerary that includes guided visits to the major attractions. However, the tour does allow some flexibility, such as substituting the Spice Bazaar if the Grand Bazaar is closed.

Is the Tour Available Year-Round?

The tour is available year-round, though certain attractions may be closed on specific days. Visitors should check the closure schedule before booking to ensure they can see all the highlights during their chosen tour date.

How Many People Are Typically in a Tour Group?

Tour group sizes typically range from small, intimate groups of 8-10 guests to larger groups of up to 20 people. The exact group size can vary depending on the specific tour and number of bookings.

Is There Any Dress Code or Special Requirements for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code, but visitors should wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees out of respect for cultural and religious sites. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

The Sum Up

The Istanbul Old City to Grand Bazaar Tour provides an immersive exploration of the city’s rich heritage and vibrant culture. With guided visits to iconic landmarks, insightful commentary, and seamless transportation, this tour offers a well-rounded experience for those seeking to discover the essence of Istanbul. At €100.00 per person, it’s a compelling opportunity to explore the city’s captivating past and vibrant present.

You can check availability for your dates here: