Explore the captivating history of Istanbul with an Old City Tour that takes you on a journey through its iconic landmarks. This full-day excursion offers a comprehensive experience, from visiting the grand Topkapi Palace to marveling at the stunning interiors of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. With hotel pickup, a professional guide, and a delectable lunch included, this tour promises to immerse you in the rich cultural tapestry of this remarkable city. Discover why Istanbul has long been a magnet for travelers seeking to uncover its hidden treasures.

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Key Points

This full-day tour covers major historical sites in Istanbul’s Old City, including Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Grand Bazaar.
The tour price starts at $29.31 per person and includes hotel pickup, professional guide, lunch, and entrance fees.
The itinerary highlights the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the bustling Grand Bazaar.
Inclusions cover hotel pickup, professional guide, lunch, and entry to Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia, while exclusions include drinks, personal expenses, and tips.
The tour requires prompt arrival at the meeting point in front of Marmara University Sultanahmet Complex, and participants should dress appropriately and wear comfortable shoes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This Istanbul Old City Tour offers an opportunity to explore the city’s historic landmarks and attractions.

The tour lasts 7 hours and covers major sites like Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Grand Bazaar.

This 7-hour tour covers Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Grand Bazaar – Istanbul’s historic landmarks and attractions.

Priced from $29.31 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, a professional guide, lunch, and entrance fees.

Travelers can save up to 40% on this tour. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Guests can reserve their spot with no upfront payment.

The meeting point is the front of the Marmara University Sultanahmet Complex, where participants should wait in their hotel lobby 10 minutes before pickup.

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Itinerary Highlights

The tour starts at the Hippodrome, which features the Obelisk from Egypt, the Serpentine Column from Delphi, and the fountain of Wilhelm II.

Next, explore the iconic Blue Mosque with its six minarets.

Then, tour Topkapi Palace, the former home of Ottoman emperors, and see the jewel-stuffed treasury. If Topkapi Palace is closed, visit the Nakkas Cistern instead.

Discover the architectural significance of Hagia Sophia, a symbol of both the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires.

Finally, stroll through the bustling Grand Bazaar, home to over 3,000 shops.

Inclusions

The tour package includes pickup service from centrally located Istanbul hotels, a professional licensed tour guide, and a provided lunch. Plus, entrance fees for Topkapi Palace, Harem, and Hagia Sophia are covered. However, drinks, personal expenses, and tips are excluded.

| Inclusions | Exclusions |

| — | — |

| Hotel pickup | Drinks |

| Professional guide | Personal expenses |

| Lunch | Tips |

| Topkapi Palace entry | |

| Hagia Sophia entry | |

Meeting Point and Guidelines

Participants are asked to wait in their hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time.

Participants are requested to arrive at their hotel lobby 10 minutes prior to the scheduled pickup time.

The meeting point is at the front of the Marmara University Sultanahmet Complex. Participants should look for the tour guide holding a sign with the tour company’s name.

Once the group is assembled, the guide will provide an overview of the day’s itinerary and expectations.

Prompt arrival is essential, as the tour departs on time. Latecomers may miss the departure and the tour can’t be held for those running behind schedule.

Participants are advised to dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.

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Customer Reviews

Reviewers have generally praised the Istanbul Old City Tour, with an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 5 reviews.

Many noted the knowledgeable guides who provided valuable cultural insights. However, the quality of the included lunch received mixed feedback, with some describing it as basic.

The top 3 highlights from customer reviews:

Knowledgeable and informative tour guides
Comprehensive overview of major historical attractions
Mixed opinions on the quality of the included lunch

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Tour Highlights: Topkapi Palace and Harem

Topkapi Palace stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire, and it’s a highlight of the Istanbul Old City Tour.

During the tour, visitors can explore the opulent imperial residence, which served as the administrative center and home of Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years.

The highlight is the Harem, a lavish private quarters that housed the sultan’s family and concubines. Visitors can wander through the ornate chambers and courtyards, marveling at the intricate tiles, fountains, and stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait.

The palace’s jewel-stuffed treasury also offers a glimpse into the empire’s vast wealth.

Tour Highlights: Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia

The Blue Mosque, with its iconic six minarets, stands as a testament to the architectural brilliance of the Ottoman Empire. Visitors are captivated by its magnificent interior, adorned with thousands of blue Iznik tiles that give the mosque its famous name.

Some key highlights include:

Exploring the mosque’s stunning courtyard, which offers a serene oasis from the bustling streets outside.
Admiring the intricate calligraphy and Ottoman-era art that adorns the walls and ceilings.
Observing the religious rituals and practices of worshippers, which provide a glimpse into the living culture of Istanbul.

After the Blue Mosque, the tour continues to the iconic Hagia Sophia, a former Byzantine church and Ottoman mosque that now stands as a museum, showcasing the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos Inside the Mosques?

Visitors are generally allowed to take photos inside mosques, but they should be respectful and avoid disrupting worship. Certain areas or times may have restrictions, so it’s best to check with tour guides or mosque staff.

Is It Mandatory to Wear Certain Attire?

Visitors to mosques in Turkey are generally required to wear modest attire that covers the arms, legs, and head. Loose, long-sleeved shirts and trousers, as well as headscarves, are typically provided for those not dressed appropriately.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Shopping at the Grand Bazaar?

The tour allocates approximately 1-1.5 hours for exploring the Grand Bazaar. This allows ample time to browse the over 3,000 shops and stalls in this iconic Istanbul market. However, participants can always spend more time shopping if desired.

Are Vegetarian/Halal Meal Options Available for Lunch?

The tour offers vegetarian and halal meal options for lunch. Guests with dietary requirements can inform the tour operator in advance to ensure their needs are accommodated.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Customers can request an extended tour to explore additional sites or spend more time at certain attractions. Extended tours are subject to availability and may incur an additional fee.

The Sum Up

Enjoy Istanbul’s rich history with the "Old City Tour Full Day With Lunch and Hotel Pickup." Explore iconic landmarks, enjoy a delicious lunch, and benefit from hassle-free transportation and a knowledgeable guide. With free cancellation available, this comprehensive tour offers an exceptional value for those seeking to experience the best of Istanbul’s historic old city.