Highlights of Istanbul Tour

Istanbul Highlights – Full-Day Guided Experience

Discover Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, history, and culture in one unforgettable day. Perfect for first-time visitors, our Highlights of Istanbul Tour combines sightseeing, local experiences, and expert storytelling.

Why Choose This Tour?

• Full-day guided tour (approx. 7 - 8 hours)

• Licensed professional guide sharing historical insights

• Hotel pickup & drop-off from central Istanbul (Fatih, Beyoğlu, Beşiktaş)

• Visit top landmarks: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Byzantine Hippodrome, Grand Bazaar

• Learn about Ottoman sultans, Byzantine emperors, and Istanbul’s architecture

• Small groups ensure personalized experience

Tour Highlights

• Explore Istanbul’s Byzantine and Ottoman history

• Admire the stunning Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia

• Walk through Topkapi Palace and see the sultans’ treasures

• Experience the vibrant Grand Bazaar with over 4,000 shops

• Visit the historic Hippodrome and Sultans’ Tombs

• Hotel pickup & drop-off included

Full-Day Itinerary

08:00 – 08:30 | Hotel Pickup
Comfortable, air-conditioned transport from central hotels in Fatih, Beyoğlu, or Beşiktaş.

08:30 | Byzantine Hippodrome
Discover the center of social and sporting life in ancient Constantinople. See:

• German Fountain of Wilhelm II

• Egyptian Obelisk

• Serpentine Column

• Column of Constantine

Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)
Marvel at six minarets and thousands of hand-painted Iznik tiles. Learn about Ottoman architecture and religious traditions.

Hagia Sophia
Explore this 6th-century basilica-turned-mosque and understand its role in both Byzantine and Ottoman history.

Topkapi Palace
See the sultans’ treasures, including thrones, robes, miniatures, and sacred relics. Learn about the Ottoman court life and politics.

Grand Bazaar
Walk through one of the world’s largest covered markets. Discover carpets, ceramics, jewelry, and souvenirs while learning tips for bargaining. (Closed Sundays)

17:00 – 17:30 | Hotel Drop-off
Return to your hotel after a full day of sightseeing.

Practical Information

• Tour Type:Small group

• Accessibility: Walking on uneven surfaces; comfortable shoes recommended

• What to Bring: Camera, sunscreen, hat, water, modest clothing for mosque visits

Book Your Istanbul Highlights Tour Today!

Experience the best of Istanbul in a single day. Reserve your spot now for an unforgettable journey through history, culture, and local life.

Includes

Includes (Dahil Olanlar)

• Hotel pickup & drop-off from central districts (Fatih, Beyoğlu, Beşiktaş)

• Air-conditioned, non-smoking transportation throughout the tour

• Professional licensed guide approved by the Ministry of Tourism

• Entrance fees to all included attractions:

  • Hagia Sophia

  • Topkapi Palace

• 3-course lunch at a local restaurant (vegetarian option available)

• Local taxes and service charges

• Expert historical and cultural commentary during the tour

Excludes (Dahil Olmayanlar)

• Personal expenses (souvenirs, extra drinks, snacks)

• Gratuities for guide and driver (optional, at your discretion)

• Transportation outside the central hotel pickup/drop-off zones

• Entrance fees for optional attractions not listed in the itinerary

Notes

Closed Sites / Exceptions

• Topkapi Palace: Closed on Tuesdays; replaced with a visit to Underground Cistern (Basilica Cistern)

• Grand Covered Bazaar: Closed on Sundays

Additional Information

• The tour involves walking; not recommended for guests with walking difficulties

• Booking confirmation is provided immediately at the time of booking

• Please be ready 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup time

• Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult

• Hotel transfers from central districts (Fatih, Beyoğlu, Beşiktaş) are included

• For other European-side districts: €15 per person per way (single €25); payable at pickup