Istanbul’s historic Old City is a captivating blend of ancient wonders and vibrant culture. A small group tour provides an intimate exploration of iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia Mosque and Topkapi Palace. With a licensed guide leading the way, visitors can explore the city’s rich past and uncover hidden gems off the beaten path. From convenient hotel pickup to a delicious lunch, this immersive experience ensures an unforgettable day in one of the world’s most fascinating destinations.
Key Points

- A small group, guided tour of Istanbul’s historic Old City that covers top attractions like Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Grand Bazaar.
- Tour duration is 6 hours and led by a professional licensed guide, with hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, and all entrance fees included.
- Tour is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, though a moderate level of physical fitness is required due to walking.
- Priced at $240 per person, with online booking available and no refunds for cancellations.
- Provides an intimate and personalized experience to gain appreciation for Istanbul’s rich cultural and historical significance.
Tour Overview
This small group, full-day guided tour of Istanbul’s Old City showcases the highlights of this historic district, including the Hippodrome, Hagia Sophia Mosque, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar.
Led by a professional licensed guide, the tour lasts 6 hours and accommodates a maximum of 20 travelers.
Led by a professional licensed guide, the tour lasts 6 hours and accommodates a maximum of 20 travelers.
Hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, and all entrance fees are included. A moderate fitness level is required, and the tour is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
While gratuity for the guide and driver isn’t included, all local taxes, insurance, and transportation in an air-conditioned deluxe vehicle are covered.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Istanbul
Inclusions

The Istanbul Old City Tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from select areas, such as Eminönü, Sirkeci, Sultanahmet, Taksim, Beyoglu, Karakoy, and Beşiktaş.
Lunch and entrance fees are also included. The tour provides transportation in an air-conditioned deluxe vehicle and features a professional licensed guide.
All local taxes and insurance are covered. Gratuity for the guide and driver isn’t included, nor are personal expenses and drinks.
The tour is stroller and wheelchair accessible, but a moderate level of physical fitness is required. Infants must sit on laps, and children must be accompanied by an adult.
Accessibility and Requirements

The Istanbul Old City Tour is stroller and wheelchair accessible, as the tour operator ensures the sites and transportation accommodate these needs.
A moderate level of physical fitness is required, as there’s a good amount of walking involved to visit the key landmarks. Infants must sit on laps, and children must be accompanied by an adult during the tour.
The tour isn’t recommended for those with serious medical conditions, as the pace and walking may prove challenging.
Pricing and Booking
The Istanbul Old City Tour is priced from $240.00 per person, with the final cost varying based on the group size.
The Istanbul Old City Tour is priced from $240.00 per person, with the final cost varying based on the group size.
Booking is available online, and confirmation is received at the time of booking. However, the tour is non-refundable, and no refunds are provided for cancellations. Travelers should be aware of this policy when reserving their spot.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, entrance fees, and transportation in an air-conditioned deluxe vehicle.
While gratuity for the guide and driver isn’t included, all local taxes and insurance are covered in the tour price.
Tour Highlights

Visitors explore a diverse array of iconic landmarks during the Istanbul Old City Tour.
The tour highlights include:
-
Witnessing the grandeur of the Hagia Sophia Mosque, a stunning architectural marvel that seamlessly blends Byzantine and Ottoman influences.
-
Admiring the iconic Blue Mosque, renowned for its magnificent domes and towering minarets, which create a breathtaking silhouette against the city skyline.
-
Delving into the opulent Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans, and uncovering its rich history and elaborate courtyards.
Throughout the tour, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for Istanbul’s vibrant past and its enduring cultural significance.
Want to see more of Istanbul? Here are other city tours we've reviewed
- ISTANBUL BEST : Iconic Landmarks FullDay Private Guided City Tour
- Istanbul : Historical Turkish Bath Experience in Old City
- Ottoman Royal Hammam Experience in the Old City
- From Istanbul Airports to Hotels in Istanbul City
- Istanbul City Highlights Tour W/Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque
- Private Airport Transfer From/To Istanbul City.
Traveler Reviews
What do travelers have to say about the Istanbul Old City Tour? Based on the 5-star reviews, travelers are extremely satisfied with the experience.
They praise the knowledgeable guide who brought the city’s history to life. The small group size allowed for an intimate and personalized experience.
Visitors highlight the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as the inclusion of lunch and all entrance fees. The tour’s efficient use of time to hit the major highlights is also noted.
Exploring Istanbul’s Old City

As travelers step into the historic heart of Istanbul, they’ll be captivated by the captivating blend of architectural marvels and cultural riches that define the city’s Old City.
The guided tour takes visitors on a journey through the iconic landmarks, including:
-
The Hagia Sophia Mosque, a stunning architectural masterpiece that seamlessly blends Byzantine and Ottoman elements.
-
The striking Blue Mosque, known for its stunning blue tiles and six minarets that dominate the skyline.
-
The Topkapi Palace, the former residence of the Ottoman sultans, showcasing opulent interiors and breathtaking views.
Throughout the tour, travelers will enjoy the vibrant energy and rich heritage of Istanbul’s Old City.
Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is 20 travelers. The tour overview states that it’s a "small group full-day guided tour of Istanbul’s Old City" with a "maximum of 20 travelers".
Is This Tour Suitable for Vegetarians or Those With Dietary Restrictions?
The tour includes a provided lunch, so it should accommodate vegetarian and other dietary restrictions if requested at the time of booking. Travelers with special dietary needs should communicate these to the tour operator.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration or Customize the Itinerary?
The tour doesn’t explicitly mention the option to extend duration or customize the itinerary. However, it’s best to contact the tour provider to inquire about any potential customization or extension possibilities to accommodate individual needs and preferences.
Can We Bring Our Own Water/Snacks on the Tour?
Travelers can bring their own water and snacks on the tour. While lunch is included, having extra refreshments on hand can be convenient, especially during the 6-hour duration. The tour operator encourages bringing personal items to stay hydrated and energized.
How Much Flexibility Is There in the Tour Schedule to Accommodate Our Needs?
The tour schedule has some flexibility to accommodate travelers’ needs. Guests can bring their own water and snacks, and the guide can adjust the pace or order of activities if necessary to ensure a comfortable experience.
The Sum Up
Explore Istanbul’s historic heart on a small group tour that takes you to iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia Mosque and Topkapi Palace. With convenient transportation, a delicious lunch, and a licensed guide to provide personalized attention, this 6-hour journey offers an unforgettable experience of the city’s rich culture and vibrant history. It’s an ideal way to learn about the Old City’s timeless charm.
More Private Drivers in Istanbul
- Istanbul: Whirling Dervishes Show with Hotel Transfer
- Istanbul: Full Day Islamic Sahaba Tour with Lunch & Transfer
- Istanbul Airport Transfer Private Minivan or Minibus
- Istanbul Princes Island Tour with Lunch & Hotel Transfer
- Istanbul Airport Transfer Private Minvan
- Fat Taxi – Private Istanbul Airport (IST) Transfer to City
More VIP Experiences in Istanbul
- Istanbul: Full Day Private Vip Vehicle
- Istanbul: Private Bosphorus Cruise By Luxury Yacht
- Bosphorus Sunset Cruise with Wine, Feel Special On A Luxury Yacht
- Private Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise on Luxury Yacht
- Full-Day City Tour with Private Tour Guide and Red Carpet Treatment with Luxury Minibus
- Guided Bosphorus Afternoon Cruise on Luxury Yacht
More Tour Reviews in Istanbul
- Morning Bosphorus Cruise with Topkapi Palace & Grand Bazaar
- Istanbul Religious Sites Tour w Lunch Eyup Sultan & More
- Istanbul: 2 Continents, 1 City: From Europe to Asia Tour
- Istanbul: Private Full Day Byzantine / Ottoman Relics Tour
- Magnificient Mosques of Istanbul
- Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque Tour & Ticket + Optional Basilica
Still browsing? Here are more Istanbul experiences we've covered recently
- 4 Best 4-Day Tours In Istanbul (With Reviews & Prices)
- Istanbul’s 14 Best Walking Tours: Which To Choose?
- 11 Top-Rated Istanbul Shopping & Market Tours
- 14 Best Historical Tours In Istanbul (With Prices)
- Istanbul’s 5 Top Coffee Tours
- We Rank The 14 Best Dining Experiences In Istanbul
- Which Istanbul Wine Tours To Choose? Our Best 4 Picks
- Istanbul’s 11 Top Workshops & Classes
- 14 Of The Best Tours In Istanbul
- What Are The Best Cooking Classes In Istanbul? Our Top 7 Picks
- Our Picks For The 14 Best Tours & Experiences In Istanbul
- 5 Fantastic Massage & Relaxation Services In Istanbul
