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Premium Istanbul Old City Tour Private & No Hidden Shopping Stops

4.9(68)Istanbul

About this activity

Many tours in Istanbul appear less expensive at first, but may include shopping-oriented stops that take time away from the sightseeing experience. Our approach is different. This is a premium, 100% private Old City experience designed for travelers who want to focus on history rather than shopping-oriented detours. No Hidden Shopping Stops: Your time is dedicated entirely to Istanbul's major historical highlights. Private and Well-Paced: Explore the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar at a comfortable pace with your own licensed guide. Advance Ticket Arrangements: We arrange Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia tickets in advance where possible for a smoother experience. All visitors must still pass through mandatory security checks, and short queues are part of the visit, especially at the Blue Mosque. Flexible Lunch Time: Your guide can recommend suitable local restaurants based on your preferences.

Highlights

    What's included

    • Entrance fee of the Hagia Sophia
    • Private tour
    • Professional guide
    • Entrance fee of the Topkapi Palace.

    Not included

    • Lunch
    • Gratuities
    • Transportation to/from attractions
    • Harem entrance at Topkapi Palace.

    Itinerary

    1. Hagia Sophia

      We will kick off the day at Hagia Sophia, a stunning architectural masterpiece encapsulating centuries of history.

      1 hourAdmission includedSee on map

    2. Topkapi Palace

      Next, we will visit Topkapi Palace, where you will uncover the opulence of the Ottoman sultans and enjoy breathtaking views of the Bosphorus.

      2 hoursAdmission includedSee on map

    3. Blue Mosque

      Following this, we will head to the Blue Mosque via the Hippodrome, famous for its stunning blue tiles and six minarets.

      30 minutesAdmission freeSee on map

    4. Our adventure will conclude at the Grand Bazaar, the largest covered market in the world, where you will dive into an exhilarating shopping experience. This is a remarkable journey that you will not want to miss!

      1 hourAdmission free

    Meeting point

    Your tour guide will meet you at the House of Medusa restaurant in Sultanahmet, close to the exit gate of the Basilica Cistern.

    The map shows Istanbul. The exact meeting point is the address above.Open larger map

    Pickup

    • Everyone meets at the start point

    Drop-off

    • The tour will end at the Grand Bazaar.

    Know before you go

    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
    • A dress code is required to enter places of worship (The Hagia Sophia Mosque and The Blue Mosque). No shorts or sleeveless tops are allowed. Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women. You may risk being refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements. Ladies must cover their heads at religious sites; therefore, it is better to bring a scarf if you have one.
    • Children must be accompanied by an adult
    • As a fully registered travel agency, we will secure advance tickets for both Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia, ensuring a seamless experience with no waiting time for ticket purchases.
    • Please note that all visitors must still pass through mandatory security screening, and short entry queues are part of the experience, especially at the Blue Mosque, where the wait is usually around 10 to 15 minutes.
    • The tour will be conducted on foot, with limited shaded areas. Participants should anticipate covering approximately 10,000 steps throughout the day.
    • Private walking tour with licensed guide + Topkapi and Hagia Sophia tickets included. Meet in the Old City at House of Medusa Restaurant; no transportation included.
    • Mobile or paper ticket accepted
    • One per booking
    • • A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops are allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk being refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements. • As a fully registered travel agency, we will secure advance tickets for both Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia, ensuring a seamless experience with no waiting time for ticket purchases. • Please note that all visitors must still pass through mandatory security screening, and short entry queues are part of the experience, especially at the Blue Mosque, where the wait is usually around 10 to 15 minutes.

    Cancellation and refunds

    All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

    If you cancelRefund
    At least 0 days before0%
    Supplied by
    Private Istanbul Walking Tours
    Product code
    63525P2

    Customer reviews

    4.9 · 68 reviews
    4.9
    68 reviews
    • 5 ★66
    • 4 ★1
    • 3 ★0
    • 2 ★1
    • 1 ★0

    Ratings from Viator 5.0 (5) · Tripadvisor 4.9 (63)

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    From

    $240$221per person