Private Tour of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia & Grand Bazaar & More

Istanbul, the ancient city that straddles Europe and Asia, beckons travelers with its rich cultural heritage. This private tour promises an immersive experience, guiding visitors through the city’s iconic landmarks. From the stunning Hagia Sophia to the vibrant Grand Bazaar, the tour unveils the captivating blend of history, architecture, and bustling commerce that defines Istanbul’s allure. With a licensed guide by your side, you’ll gain insights that elevate the journey, making it an unforgettable exploration of this remarkable destination.

Key Points

• A private 8-hour tour of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, including Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar.
• The tour is priced from €179.00 per person and includes transportation, lunch, and entrance fees with a licensed professional guide.
• Visitors can explore the architectural marvels of Hagia Sophia, known for its massive dome and Byzantine mosaics.
• The tour offers an opportunity to visit the Blue Mosque, famous for its thousands of blue interior tiles and unique six slender minarets.
• Guests can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, featuring nearly 4,000 shops.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The private tour of Istanbul offers visitors an opportunity to explore the city’s most iconic landmarks. Priced from €179.00 per person, the 8-hour tour takes guests to Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve without upfront payment, the tour provides flexibility. Led by a professional guide licensed by the Ministry of Tourism, the experience includes transportation, lunch, and entrance fees.

Customer reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and enriching experiences, making this tour a valuable way to discover the wonders of Istanbul.

Itinerary Highlights

Explore Hagia Sophia, an architectural wonder and former largest church in the world. Marvel at its massive domed structure and intricate Byzantine mosaics.

Hagia Sophia, an architectural marvel and once the largest church, impresses with its massive dome and intricate Byzantine mosaics.

Next, visit the Blue Mosque, recognized by its thousands of blue tiles adorning the interior.

Discover the Hippodrome, an ancient stadium built in 203 C.E. by Roman Emperor Septimus Severus.

Tour Topkapi Palace, the opulent home of Ottoman rulers, and gain insights from a professional guide.

Finally, learn about the Grand Bazaar, a bustling marketplace featuring nearly 4,000 shops and stalls selling a variety of Turkish goods and souvenirs.

Explore Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia stands as an architectural marvel, its massive domed structure and intricate Byzantine mosaics captivating visitors.

Originally built as a Christian cathedral in the 6th century, the structure’s grand scale and blend of Christian and Islamic influences reflect its storied past.

Visitors can marvel at the impressive central dome, which appears to float effortlessly, and admire the stunning mosaics adorning the interior walls and ceilings.

From the serene atmosphere to the awe-inspiring architecture, Hagia Sophia offers an enriching glimpse into Istanbul’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Visit the Blue Mosque

Although the Sultanahmet Mosque, commonly known as the Blue Mosque, shares architectural similarities with its neighbor Hagia Sophia, its defining feature is the stunning blue tiles that adorn its interior.

Visitors can expect to be awestruck by:

• The 20,000 handmade İznik tiles in shades of blue that cover the mosque’s interior walls and ceilings.

• The six slender minarets that rise above the mosque, a unique architectural element amongst the city’s mosques.

• The massive scale of the structure, capable of accommodating up to 10,000 worshippers.

• The fusion of Byzantine and Ottoman architectural styles, a testament to Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage.

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Discover the Hippodrome

The Hippodrome, a massive public arena built in 203 C.E. by Roman Emperor Septimus Severus, stands as a testament to Istanbul’s rich history.

This sprawling plaza was once the center of civic life, hosting chariot races, executions, and public events.

Today, visitors can admire the surviving monuments, including the Serpent Column, an ancient Greek sculpture, and the Obelisk of Theodosius, an Egyptian obelisk from the 16th century BCE.

As part of the guided tour, guests will learn about the Hippodrome’s significance and the vibrant spectacles that once captivated audiences in this iconic Istanbul landmark.

Tour Topkapi Palace

Next, the tour takes visitors to the Topkapi Palace, the former home of Ottoman rulers. This magnificent palace offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyles of Ottoman sultans.

Guests will explore the palace’s highlights:

• Opulent imperial apartments decorated with ornate tiles and intricate calligraphy

• Impressive courtyards and pavilions showcasing Ottoman architecture and design

• The Harem, an intriguing section that housed the sultan’s family and concubines

• The Imperial Treasury, home to an extraordinary collection of jewels, weapons, and other priceless artifacts

A professional guide provides insightful commentary, bringing the palace’s rich history to life for a truly immersive experience.

Shop at the Grand Bazaar

Visitors conclude the tour by exploring the bustling Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world.

With nearly 4,000 shops and stalls, the bazaar offers a vast array of traditional Turkish handicrafts, jewelry, spices, and textiles. Haggling is expected, adding to the lively atmosphere.

Guides share insights into the market’s history and help visitors navigate the maze-like layout. Shoppers can enjoy the vibrant sights, sounds, and aromas, finding unique souvenirs and experiencing the energy of this iconic Istanbul landmark.

Inclusions and Important Information

Though the tour price doesn’t include entrance fees, it covers a fully guided full-day Istanbul tour with a professional guide licensed by the Ministry of Tourism.

Transportation is provided in air-conditioned, non-smoking coaches, and lunch and drinks are included.

It’s important to note that:

• Hagia Sophia is closed on Mondays,

• Topkapi Palace on Tuesdays,

• and the Grand Bazaar on Sundays.

• Food and drinks aren’t included in the tour price.

• Customers have the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• Booking is available with a "reserve now & pay later" option.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Many People Can Participate in the Private Tour?

The private tour is designed for an individual or a small group of travelers. The exact number of participants is not specified, but the tour is described as a "private" experience, suggesting it’s not a large group tour.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

The tour price is a flat rate per person, with no discounts for children or seniors. The tour allows for private experiences tailored to the group, so the price doesn’t vary based on age or group size.

Can the Start Time of the Tour Be Customized?

The tour’s start time can be customized to suit the customer’s needs. Clients can request an earlier or later departure time when booking the tour, and the tour operator will accommodate the request if possible.

Are Hotel Pick-Up and Drop-Off Services Available?

The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off services. Guests will be transported in air-conditioned, non-smoking coaches to the attractions on the itinerary, providing a seamless and convenient experience throughout the day.

Can the Tour Be Extended or Shortened to Accommodate Personal Interests?

The tour can be customized based on personal interests. Travelers can request to extend or shorten the tour duration to accommodate their preferences and focus on specific sites they’re most interested in exploring.

The Sum Up

This private tour of Istanbul offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the city’s iconic landmarks and vibrant markets. From the architectural masterpiece of Hagia Sophia to the bustling Grand Bazaar, the tour provides a comprehensive glimpse into Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage. With transportation, lunch, and a knowledgeable guide included, this tour ensures a seamless and enriching adventure in Turkey’s captivating capital.

You can check availability for your dates here: