Historic Istanbul Old City Tour: Visit Basilica Cistern, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar

Immerse yourself in the rich history of Istanbul’s old town on this guided tour. Explore iconic landmarks, indulge in Turkish delights, and marvel at the breathtaking views from the Blue Mosque.

Duration: 3 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Basilica Cistern - The largest among several hundred ancient Byzantine cisterns constructed by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I (527-565). This vast underground Roman water reservoir is supported by 336 marble columns and spans 9,800 square meters.
  • Blue Mosque - A renowned tourist attraction, located adjacent to the Hagia Sophia, and still…
What's Included
  • Basilica Cistern entry ticket (if all-inclusive option selected)
  • Professional Guide
  • Small Group
What's Not Included
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Gratuities
  • Admission fees
Additional Information

Explore the historic ‘old town’ of vibrant Istanbul on this tour. Capture stunning photos at Sultanahmet’s renowned religious landmarks, including the Underground Basilica Cistern and the Blue Mosque. Stroll through fragrant spice markets after delving into the Byzantine history of the Hippodrome. Experience the influences of the Roman, Byzantine, and…

Location
Foodie-ist Cafe and Brasserie
Muhterem Efendi Sokak
Meet your guide outside 'FOODIE-IST CAFE AND BRASSERIE,' just a 2-minute walk from the (T1) Sultanahmet tram stop. Your guide, easily identifiable by their tour guide badge, will be waiting for you at the cafe entrance.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.8
(120 Ratings)
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233kathyu
May 23, 2026
Understand Istanbul's history with this tour - The tour by our guide Erol was a great added value when visiting the Cistern and Blue Mosque. Thanks to his explanation and by pointing out specifics, we feel that we understand Istanbul's history better. He answered all our questions and gave tips for our onward journey. Thanks Erol, we had a very interesting afternoon thanks to you!!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Daveneumann01
May 22, 2026
Erol is a great guide! - Erol was a great tour guide. Very informative and interesting. He really knows the history and culture, we learned a lot and had fun. Would definitely be this trip with Erol. Thank you.
Review provided by Viator
Page_j
May 20, 2026
Valuable and Beneficial Tours - Valuable use of time in Istanbul. Erol was knowledgeable about the city, attractions and overall area and global history. Erol was a great tour guide. We really enjoyed the Basilica Cistern and Blue Mosque with Tombs.
Review provided by Viator
Damiyenne_w
May 15, 2026
Beautiful Experience - Beautiful experience, not only do you get to see some of the main beauties in Istanbul you get Ana amazing look into the streets/shops around the city, and you are left in the most perfect part of town to continue exploring, our tour guide was a delight and very knowledgeable!
Review provided by Viator
Angela_e
May 9, 2026
Highly recommend - Wonderful experience, fantastic guide! She was so knowledgeable and also fun. 10/10 highly recommend!
Review provided by Viator
Wendy_h
Apr 18, 2026
Amazing - Our guide Erol was so knowledgeable and friendly we learnt so much about the history of Istanbul’s major sites . Cistern Basilica was particularly amazing !
Review provided by Viator
Francescodnoci
Mar 27, 2026
Mandatory experience - Experience not to be missed, all these places exude millennial history. You never cease to be amazed at such beauty. Basilica Cisterna leaves an indelible memory because of the great romance it expresses, waterproof
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Brujabuena70
Dec 24, 2025
PURE MAGIC - If you go to Istanbul these are must-sees. Wonderful in their authenticity, where ancient history blends with the present with a wink to the future. World Heritage Site!!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Massimo2314
Dec 8, 2025
Lovely place - If you pass through Istanbul you can not miss visiting this spectacular and enchanting place, certainly the cost of the ticket is not low but it is worth it.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Douarmor
May 9, 2026
Very nice but the price of admission is unreasonable - It's beautiful. The visit is quite quick 20-30 min. Hardly any information. Unfortunately the price of 40 euros seems to me quite unjustified and it should be added if you want the audio guide. For some monuments in Istanbul, the tourist is mistaken for a cash cow
Review provided by Tripadvisor
From $35
up to 8 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).