• Istanbul - Embark on a personalized exploration of Istanbul, designed to fit your schedule and interests. Choose from options like a private guide, hotel, Airbnb, or port pickup and drop-off by minivan, or opt for a full-day guide and minivan package. Your guide will meet you at your centrally located hotel, offering flexible departure times and a fully customizable itinerary. Dive into the UNESCO-listed Historic Areas, visiting iconic sites such as Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, and the Hippodrome. Enhance your experience with a Bosporus cruise and a visit to the Grand Bazaar. Your guide’s insights will enrich your understanding of each location.

• Blue Mosque - The Blue Mosque is not only a place of worship but also a stunning example of art and architecture. Exploring its beauty and historical importance can be a highlight of your layover in Istanbul.

• Sultanahmet District - Begin your visit to the main attractions from the Sultanahmet District.

• Topkapi Palace - Founded by Fatih Sultan Mehmed Han in 1473, Topkapi Palace served as the administrative center and residence of Ottoman Sultans and their families for nearly 380 years. It housed 4,000 people and is now one of Istanbul’s largest museums.

• Kapali Carsi - The world’s oldest and most renowned antique mall, spanning approximately 4,000 square meters. It features numerous traditional Turkish shops offering handmade carpets, jewelry, antiques, silk products, and spices.

• Hagia Sophia Mosque - Hagia Sophia, meaning “Holy Wisdom Church,” was built by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. Converted into a mosque during the Ottoman era, it served as a museum for nearly 75 years and is now a mosque again. It is celebrated for its architectural brilliance, massive dome, intricate mosaics, and historical significance, reflecting both Christian and Islamic heritage.

• Basilica Cistern - Basilica Cistern

• Misir Carsisi (Spice Market) - The Mısır Çarşısı (Spice Bazaar) in Istanbul is one of the city’s oldest and most renowned covered markets. Established in 1664 as part of the New Mosque complex, it was historically a center for the spice trade, with goods arriving from Egypt, hence the name “Egyptian Bazaar.” Today, it offers a wide range of spices, dried fruits, nuts, sweets, and traditional Turkish products. Located in the Eminönü district, it remains a lively and aromatic destination for both locals and tourists.

• Historic Areas of Istanbul - Istanbul’s historic areas are a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing a rich array of cultural and architectural landmarks.

• Professional licensed local guide
• Private minivan pickup and drop off service from Hotel/Port/Airbnb if chosen options
• Private Tour

• Breakfast-lunch-dinner and drinks
• Gratuities
• Ferry-Museum Tickets
• Public transportations during the tour

Start your day with a knowledgeable tour guide who will vividly narrate Istanbul’s rich history. Begin at the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans, where you can explore its lavish rooms and the intriguing Harem.

Then, proceed to the architectural wonder of Hagia Sophia, followed by the graceful Blue Mosque, renowned for its stunning blue tiles and six minarets.

Stroll through the historic Hippodrome, the ancient sports arena of Byzantium, before venturing into the enigmatic Basilica Cistern, an underground marvel with atmospheric lighting and ancient columns.

Conclude your day by exploring the lively Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world—ideal for shopping and immersing yourself in the local culture.

• Topkapı Palace is closed on Tuesday, Grand Bazaar is closed on Sunday
• Please note that tour guides do not have skip-the-line priority at Hagia Sophia. To avoid waiting in the security line, we recommend departing tour early in the morning, ideally around 8:30 am or 9:00 am. This will give you a better chance of enjoying the site without long queues
• If your tour begins after 11 am, please be aware that you might need to skip one or a couple of sites, as they close by 7 pm. Your guide will tailor the program to accommodate your priorities accordingly. Planning your visit earlier in the day ensures you have ample time to explore all the attractions without rush. If you have any specific preferences or questions about the tour, feel free to let us know!
• This is a private tour/activities. Only your group will participate

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