Istanbul’s rich history and vibrant culture come alive on the Small Group Full-Day Old City Tour. Priced at $130.85 per person, this 8-hour adventure offers the chance to explore iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and free cancellation, this tour provides a hassle-free way to learn about the city’s captivating past. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour promises to showcase Istanbul’s most stunning sights and leave you eager to discover more.

Contents show

Key Points

A full-day tour of Istanbul’s historic Old City, covering major attractions like Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar.
The tour is priced at $130.85 per person and includes hotel pickup/drop-off and air-conditioned transportation.
Visitors can explore the architectural masterpiece of Hagia Sophia, admire the intricate blue tiles of the Blue Mosque, and discover the grandeur of Topkapi Palace.
The Hippodrome, an ancient chariot racing track, is another key highlight, providing insight into the city’s Byzantine heritage.
The tour offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, and payment can be made later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The "Istanbul: Small Group Full-Day Old City Tour" offers an immersive exploration of Istanbul’s historic landmarks, providing visitors with an in-depth look at the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Priced at $130.85 per person, the 8-hour tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and a guided tour of the city’s top attractions, such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar.

The tour features a flexible cancellation policy, allowing for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the option to reserve now and pay later, making it a convenient choice for travelers.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Istanbul

Key Attractions

Hagia Sophia, an architectural masterpiece over 1,500 years old, features intricate mosaics and stunning domes that captivate visitors.

The nearby Blue Mosque is known for its six minarets and intricate blue tiles, exemplifying the grandeur of Ottoman architecture.

At the Topkapi Palace, guests explore the former residence of Ottoman sultans, now a museum showcasing Ottoman art, jewelry, and traditions.

The ancient Hippodrome, a chariot racing track central to Byzantine civic life, offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history.

The Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets globally, tempts shoppers with over 4,000 shops.

Hagia Sophia

As one of Istanbul’s architectural masterpieces, Hagia Sophia has captivated visitors for over 1,500 years with its intricate mosaics and stunning domes.

Originally built as an Orthodox Christian cathedral, it later served as a mosque and is now a museum.

Visitors can explore the grand interior, where they’ll find remnants of the building’s rich history, including Byzantine-era mosaics and Ottoman-era calligraphic panels.

Visitors can discover the grand interior, where remnants of Byzantine mosaics and Ottoman calligraphy reflect Hagia Sophia’s storied past.

The sheer scale and grandeur of Hagia Sophia make it a must-see attraction for anyone exploring the historic sites of Istanbul’s Old City.

Blue Mosque

Just a short walk from the iconic Hagia Sophia stands the captivating Blue Mosque. This architectural masterpiece, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is recognized by its six slender minarets and stunning blue tiles. Visitors are mesmerized by the mosque’s intricate Ottoman design and serene ambiance.

| Features | Details |

| — | — |

| Architecture | Six minarets, over 20,000 Iznik tiles |

| Construction | Commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I, completed in 1616 |

| Key Highlights | Impressive central dome, cascading secondary domes, impressive mihrab |

As one of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks, the Blue Mosque offers a profound spiritual experience and a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage.

More Great Tours Nearby

Topkapi Palace

Towering above the Bosphorus Strait, Topkapi Palace was the official residence of the Ottoman sultans for nearly four centuries.

Once an opulent complex of buildings, the palace now functions as a museum showcasing the Ottoman’s rich cultural heritage.

Visitors can explore the palace’s ornate courtyards, marvel at the intricate tile work, and view the sultan’s lavish collections of jewelry, porcelain, and other treasures.

The palace’s highlight is the Harem, an exclusive domain that offers a glimpse into the private lives of the Ottoman rulers.

Topkapi Palace stands as a testament to the grandeur and power of the Ottoman Empire.

Want to see more of Istanbul? Here are other city tours we've reviewed

Hippodrome

The Hippodrome was an ancient chariot racing track central to the civic life of Byzantine Constantinople.

Constructed in the 3rd century AD by Emperor Septimius Severus, the vast stadium once hosted thrilling races and grand ceremonies. Its long, rectangular shape and U-shaped seating design allowed spectators to witness the excitement of the races up close.

Today, remnants of the Hippodrome’s former grandeur remain, including the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpentine Column, and the Column of Constantine.

Visitors can explore this historical site and imagine the bustling crowds and thundering chariots that once filled the arena.

Grand Bazaar

One of the highlights of the Istanbul Old City Tour is the visit to the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. Sprawling across 61 streets, the Grand Bazaar features over 4,000 shops selling a dazzling array of goods, from traditional Turkish carpets and ceramics to spices, jewelry, and leather goods. Navigating the bustling market can be overwhelming, but the tour guide provides valuable insights and tips to help visitors make the most of their experience. The following table outlines some key facts about the Grand Bazaar:

| Fact | Value |

| — | — |

| Established | 1455 |

| Size | 61 streets, over 4,000 shops |

| Goods Sold | Carpets, ceramics, spices, jewelry, leather goods |

| Annual Visitors | 15 million |

| Closed Days | Sundays |

Tour Inclusions and Important Notes

The Istanbul Old City Tour includes several key inclusions to provide visitors with a comprehensive and seamless experience.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and a guided tour of Istanbul’s historic sights with a professional English-speaking guide.

A guided tour of Istanbul’s historic sights, with hotel pickup and drop-off, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Entrance fees to the iconic attractions, such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Grand Bazaar, are also covered.

Visitors should note the dress code – a scarf is required for visits to the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.

Plus, the Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays, and the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

It’s not clear whether this tour offers customization options. Tour providers typically provide set itineraries, but some may accommodate minor customizations upon request. Customers should inquire with the tour company about any flexible options or ability to personalize the experience.

How Many People Are in a Small Group?

A small group tour typically consists of 6-12 participants. The exact group size can vary depending on the tour operator, but it’s generally a more intimate experience compared to larger group tours.

What Languages Does the Tour Guide Speak?

The tour guide speaks English. The listing does not specify any other languages, so it can be assumed the guided tour is conducted in English for this small group tour.

Can We Stop for Lunch During the Tour?

The tour includes a guided sightseeing of the major historical attractions, but it doesn’t provide a scheduled lunch stop. Travelers can ask the guide for recommendations on where to stop for a meal during the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour company doesn’t offer an option to extend the duration, but they may be able to accommodate requests for longer tours or custom itineraries. Customers should inquire about this when booking to see if any flexibility is available.

The Sum Up

This Small Group Full-Day Old City Tour offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore Istanbul’s iconic landmarks and vibrant culture. With hotel pickup and drop-off, knowledgeable guides, and the convenience of free cancellation, it’s an ideal way to make the most of your time in this captivating city. Whether you’re a first-time or returning visitor, this tour provides an unforgettable glimpse into Istanbul’s rich history and architectural wonders.