Istanbul: Highlights´Private Guided Tours.History & Shopping

Istanbul, a city that seamlessly blends ancient history and vibrant modernity, beckons travelers to explore its captivating sights. Through a private guided tour, visitors can enjoy the city’s iconic landmarks, explore its rich cultural heritage, and indulge in the bustling shopping experience of the Grand Bazaar. This comprehensive tour promises a tailored journey, allowing participants to uncover the city’s treasures at their own pace, complemented by the expertise of a knowledgeable guide. With a flexible itinerary and the opportunity to savor authentic Ottoman cuisine, this tour offers a truly memorable exploration of Istanbul’s past and present.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 6-hour private guided tour of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, including Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar.
• Tour led by an experienced English-speaking guide with over 25 years of expertise.
• Flexible itinerary adjustments based on crowd levels and day of the week.
• Includes lunch at an Ottoman Imperial Cuisine restaurant and optional coffee break.
• Tour not suitable for wheelchair users or infants due to extensive walking and stairs.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This private guided tour provides visitors with an immersive exploration of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks and cultural treasures.

Lasting six hours, this exclusive tour takes guests on a journey through the city’s highlights, including the magnificent Hagia Sophia, the stunning Blue Mosque, the historic Hippodrome, the captivating Basilica Cistern, and the bustling Grand Bazaar.

Led by an English-speaking, licensed guide with over 25 years of experience, the tour offers a flexible and personalized experience, with the option to adjust the itinerary based on crowds and the day of the week.

Participants can enjoy a lunch break at an Ottoman Imperial Cuisine restaurant and a coffee break, if needed, making this tour a comprehensive and enriching way to discover the wonders of Istanbul.

Itinerary Highlights

The walking tour immerses visitors in Istanbul’s rich history and cultural heritage, encompassing the iconic Hagia Sophia, the enchanting Blue Mosque, the historic Hippodrome, the captivating Basilica Cistern, and the bustling Grand Bazaar.

The order of visits may vary depending on the crowds and the day of the week, ensuring an optimal experience.

Visitors can look forward to a delightful lunch break at an Ottoman Imperial Cuisine restaurant, as well as a coffee break if needed.

The tour typically concludes at the Grand Bazaar, where participants can further enjoy the vibrant local shopping experience, unless otherwise requested.

Inclusions and Fees

The tour price doesn’t include the entrance fees for Hagia Sophia ($44), Topkapi Palace ($52), and Basilica Cistern ($21), which visitors pay separately.

However, the tour fee covers the guiding, leading, and teaching services, as well as any potential meals or drinks during the experience.

Participants can expect to explore Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Basilica Cistern, and the Grand Bazaar, led by a knowledgeable, English-speaking guide licensed since 1997.

The tour offers flexibility, allowing visitors to reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Meeting and Pickup

Istanbul: Highlights’ Private Guided Tours. History & Shopping

Visitors can choose from several pickup options, including their hotel lobby, the cruise port terminal, or a location in the old city.

The tour doesn’t include transportation, so travelers will need to make their own way to the meeting point. The guide will be waiting to greet the group and lead them on a captivating exploration of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks.

Whether you’re staying at a hotel, arriving by cruise ship, or exploring the historic district, the tour’s flexible pickup arrangements make it easy to join the experience.

With a knowledgeable guide to bring the city’s rich history to life, you’re in for an unforgettable day in this fascinating destination.

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Participant Restrictions

While the guided tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Istanbul’s highlights, there are a few participant restrictions to be aware of.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or babies under 1 year of age, as the itinerary involves extensive walking and navigating uneven terrain. However, the guide is respectful of personal choices and pacing during the tour, ensuring a comfortable experience for all.

The tour has the following additional restrictions:

• Participants should be able to walk for extended periods and navigate stairs.

• The tour may not be suitable for those with limited mobility or endurance.

• Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

Flexible Booking

One of the key benefits of this private guided tour is its flexible booking options. Customers can reserve their spot now and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance. This provides added convenience and peace of mind when planning a tour of Istanbul’s top attractions.

The tour’s flexible booking policy allows travelers to secure their spot without needing to pay upfront. This ‘reserve now, pay later’ approach makes it easier to fit the tour into one’s schedule and budget.

On top of that, the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior to the tour start time offers additional flexibility, so customers can adjust their plans if needed without penalty.

This level of booking flexibility is a valuable perk for those exploring the sights and experiences of Istanbul.

Live Tour Guide

Throughout the tour, a live, English-speaking guide leads participants, sharing insights and historical perspectives on Istanbul’s iconic landmarks. Licensed since 1997, the knowledgeable guide brings the city’s rich past to life, offering a personalized and immersive experience for visitors.

The guide’s expertise extends beyond just facts and figures, as they skillfully weave engaging narratives that bring the sights and sounds of Istanbul to life.

With a deep understanding of the local culture and history, the guide provides valuable context, allowing participants to gain a deeper appreciation for the places they visit.

Flexibility is key, as the guide adapts the tour based on the group’s interests and energy levels, ensuring an enjoyable and memorable experience for all.

Private Guided Tour

The private guided tour of Istanbul’s highlights provides visitors with a personalized and immersive experience, led by a knowledgeable, English-speaking guide licensed since 1997.

This 6-hour tour allows participants to explore the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Basilica Cistern, and Grand Bazaar, at their own pace.

The tour also includes a lunch break at an Ottoman Imperial Cuisine restaurant and a coffee break if needed.

Flexibility is key, as the order of visits may vary depending on crowd levels and the day of the week.

With a maximum of 4 participants, this private tour ensures a more intimate and customized experience for each group.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Tour Be Customized to My Specific Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to the participant’s specific interests. The private guide is flexible and will adjust the itinerary to accommodate the group’s preferences, ensuring a personalized experience within the 6-hour duration.

Does the Tour Guide Provide Any Recommendations for Local Cuisine?

The tour guide provides recommendations for local cuisine during the lunch break at an Ottoman Imperial Cuisine restaurant. They can offer insights into traditional Turkish dishes and dining experiences to enhance the tour.

Are There Any Opportunities to Interact With Local Artisans?

Yes, the tour includes visits to workshops where participants can interact with local artisans. They’ll have the chance to observe traditional craftsmanship and potentially purchase unique, handmade souvenirs directly from the artisans.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Private Tour?

The maximum group size for this private tour is 4 participants. The tour is priced per group, not per person, and can accommodate up to 4 people in the group.

Are There Any Age-Appropriate Activities for Children on the Tour?

The tour caters to children with a visit to the Basilica Cistern, which provides a unique underground experience. Plus, the Grand Bazaar offers child-friendly activities like exploring the vibrant stalls and trying Turkish delicacies.

The Sum Up

Istanbul’s private guided tours offer an immersive experience, blending the city’s rich history and vibrant shopping culture.

Explore iconic landmarks, savor Ottoman cuisine, and enjoy a flexible itinerary tailored to the group.

With an experienced English-speaking guide, this tour promises a memorable exploration of Istanbul’s historical treasures and shopping delights.

You can check if your dates are available here: