Discovering the captivating essence of Istanbul has never been easier. This small group tour promises an immersive experience, guiding you through the city’s iconic landmarks in the morning. From the grandeur of Hagia Sophia to the vibrant energy of the Grand Bazaar, you’ll uncover the rich history and culture that makes Istanbul a true gem. With personalized attention and expert commentary, this tour offers a seamless way to explore the highlights – but the true wonder lies in the stories that await unveiling.

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Key Points

Four-hour morning tour covering Istanbul’s top attractions, including Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome Square, and the Grand Bazaar.
Small group size capped at 10 travelers for a personalized experience with a professional, multi-lingual guide.
Convenient meeting point in Sultanahmet district with optional hotel pickup, and all entrance fees included.
Wheelchair and stroller accessible tour with potential for long wait times, especially at the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.
Offers a comprehensive introduction to Istanbul’s highlights, providing historical context and cultural insights.

Tour Overview

The Small Group Tour of Istanbul Highlights offers a comprehensive 4-hour morning experience exploring the city’s top attractions.

A comprehensive 4-hour morning tour exploring Istanbul’s top attractions through a small group experience.

It’s a small group tour capped at 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. The tour covers iconic sites like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome Square, and the Grand Bazaar.

All entrance fees are included, and the guide provides historical context and cultural insights along the way.

With a meeting point in the Sultanahmet district and optional hotel pickup, the tour is convenient and accessible.

Travelers should be ready by 8:15 AM for a 8:30 AM start time.

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Itinerary and Highlights

This tour allows visitors to explore some of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks.

It begins with a visit to the Hagia Sophia, a stunning architectural marvel that blends Byzantine and Ottoman influences.

Next, guests discover the Blue Mosque, known for its stunning blue tiles and six minarets.

The tour then moves to the Hippodrome Square, a former center of civic life.

Finally, guests experience the vibrant Grand Bazaar, where they can shop for authentic Turkish carpets and handicrafts.

Throughout the tour, the guide provides historical context and cultural insights.

The total time spent at the sites is approximately 3 hours.

Meeting and Pickup

Visitors meet at the Sultanahmet Tamara Restaurant, located at Küçük Ayasofya Cd. No:14, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul. They need to be ready by 08:15 for pickup, as the tour starts promptly at 08:30 am. Hotel pickup is available, but only for selected hotels. The tour ends back at the meeting point.

| — | — | — | — |

| Sultanahmet Tamara Restaurant | 08:15 | 08:30 am | Back at meeting point |

Visitors should have a moderate physical fitness level, as there may be long wait times for entry to the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Inclusions

The tour includes a professional, multi-lingual guide who’ll provide insights on shopping for Turkish carpets and handicrafts.

All entrance fees and taxes are covered, allowing you to fully learn about the highlights of Istanbul.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are provided, ensuring a seamless start and end to your tour.

With a maximum of 10 travelers, you’ll enjoy a small group experience and personalized attention from your guide.

The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, catering to a range of mobility needs.

Additional Information

What else should travelers know about this tour? Confirmation is received at booking, ensuring a smooth experience. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, accommodating diverse needs. While a moderate fitness level is required, the tour’s pacing allows for rest stops. Visitors should note that wait times may be lengthy at the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, especially on Fridays when access is limited due to noon prayers. Children must be accompanied by an adult for safety. This tour provides a comprehensive introduction to Istanbul’s highlights in a convenient and inclusive manner.

| Accessibility | Fitness Level | Entry Access |

| — | — | — |

| Wheelchair Accessible | Moderate | Blue Mosque: Possible Long Wait Times |

| Stroller Accessible | | Hagia Sophia: Possible Long Wait Times |

| | | Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia: Limited Friday Access |

| | | Children Require Adult Accompaniment |

| | | Confirmation Received at Booking |

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Practicalities

Although the tour starts early at 8:30 am, the meeting point at Sultanahmet Tamara Restaurant is conveniently located near the major sights.

The tour meeting point at Sultanahmet Tamara Restaurant is conveniently located near the major sights, despite the early 8:30 am start.

Travelers should be ready by 8:15 am for pickup. Hotel pickup is available for selected hotels only.

The tour includes entrance fees, a professional multilingual guide, and insights on shopping for Turkish carpets and handicrafts.

While the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, a moderate level of physical fitness is required as there may be long wait times for entry to the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.

On Friday mornings, access to these sites may be limited due to noon prayers.

Booking and Availability

Booking the Small Group Tour of Istanbul Highlights is simple and convenient. Travelers can easily reserve their spot online, with a lowest price guarantee.

The tour has a maximum of 10 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. Guests can choose from available tour dates and conveniently select their preferred meeting point or hotel pickup.

Cancellations are hassle-free, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. With professional guides, included entrance fees, and hotel transportation, the booking process is straightforward, making it easy for visitors to explore Istanbul’s top sights in a small group setting.

FAQ

Can I Take Photos Inside the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque?

Photos are generally allowed inside the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, but visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting religious activities. Certain areas or times may have restrictions, so it’s best to follow the guide’s instructions.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour Instead of a Small Group?

Yes, there’s an option for a private tour instead of a small group. The tour operator offers private tours for those who prefer more personalized attention and flexibility during their Istanbul sightseeing experience.

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The tour has a maximum group size of 10 travelers. The description states the tour is a "Small Group Tour", indicating the average group size is likely between 6-10 people.

Do We Get to Try Any Local Cuisine During the Tour?

No, this tour does not include any local cuisine tastings. The focus is on sightseeing the major highlights of Istanbul, such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar. Meals are not provided during the 4-hour tour duration.

Is There a Dress Code for Visiting the Religious Sites?

There is a dress code for visiting the religious sites. Visitors should wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Removal of shoes is required when entering the Blue Mosque.

Sum Up

This small group tour of Istanbul’s highlights is an excellent way to explore the city’s iconic sights in the morning. With knowledgeable guides, personalized attention, and a comprehensive itinerary, travelers can enjoy Istanbul’s rich history and culture. The convenient starting point and inclusion of key attractions make this tour a practical and enjoyable experience for those seeking to discover the vibrant essence of this remarkable city.