İstanbul: Discovering the Old City / Full Day Tour

Exploring the captivating old city of Istanbul is a must-do for any discerning traveler. This comprehensive full-day tour promises to whisk you away on a cultural odyssey, unveiling the city’s most iconic landmarks and offering a glimpse into its rich history. From the stunning Sultan Ahmed Mosque to the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, you’ll embark on a journey that will leave you enchanted and eager to uncover more of this remarkable destination. With a professional local guide by your side, you’ll explore the opulence of Topkapi Palace and navigate the bustling Grand Bazaar, all while indulging in a leisurely lunch in the vibrant Sultanahmet District. Get ready to be captivated by the wonders of Istanbul’s old city.

Key Points

• Comprehensive full-day tour covering the iconic landmarks of Istanbul’s historic Old City, including the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Grand Bazaar.

• Competitive pricing starting from 391 Turkish Lira per person, with hotel pickup and drop-off, guided tours, and skip-the-line access included.

• Highlights include a 30-minute guided exploration of Hagia Sophia, a 2-hour visit to Topkapi Palace, and a 1-hour shopping experience at the Grand Bazaar.

• Experienced local guide provides insightful commentary on the architectural marvels and cultural significance of the landmark sites.

• Convenient booking process with a ‘reserve now, pay later’ option and free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This full-day tour of Istanbul’s historic Old City offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s acclaimed landmarks, priced at a competitive rate starting from just Kč3,791 per person.

Over the course of 8 hours, you’ll be whisked away to iconic sites like the stunning Sultan Ahmed Mosque, the breathtaking Hagia Sophia, and the grand Topkapi Palace.

With a knowledgeable local guide leading the way, you’ll explore the rich history and cultural significance of these magnificent structures.

The tour also includes a stop for lunch in the charming Sultanahmet District and time to browse the bustling Grand Bazaar.

Best of all, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour starts with pickup from Halic, Sultanahmet Square, where visitors embark on their exploration of Istanbul’s Old City.

The first stop is the iconic Sultan Ahmed Mosque, allotting 45 minutes to admire its stunning architectural features and learn about its rich history.

Next, the group heads to the Hagia Sophia, where a 30-minute guided tour by a seasoned historian provides insights into its evolution from a Christian basilica to a mosque and museum. Visitors can then explore the site independently, marveling at the intricate mosaics and towering dome.

After lunch in the Sultanahmet District, the tour continues to the expansive Topkapi Palace, where two hours are dedicated to uncovering its imperial grandeur.

The final stop is the bustling Grand Bazaar, allowing an hour for shopping and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.

Hagia Sophia Experience

As part of the tour, visitors embark on a 30-minute guided exploration of the Hagia Sophia, led by a seasoned historian who brings the site’s captivating history to life.

They’ll learn about its evolution from a grand Christian basilica to a mosque and, finally, a museum, uncovering the architectural marvels and sacred significance that have endured throughout the centuries.

The guide’s insights reveal the intricate mosaics, the towering dome, and the sacred spaces that make this UNESCO World Heritage Site so unique.

After the guided session, guests are free to wander the Hagia Sophia independently, seeing its timeless beauty and spiritual atmosphere.

Inclusions

The Istanbul Old City tour package includes a comprehensive array of services to ensure a seamless and immersive experience. Visitors receive hotel pickup and drop-off, accompanied by a professional local guide who provides insightful commentary throughout the day.

All necessary fees and taxes are covered, and guests enjoy skip-the-line access to both the Topkapi Palace and the iconic Hagia Sophia. On top of that, a delectable lunch is provided during the Sultanahmet District exploration, allowing participants to savor the local cuisine and culture.

The tour’s inclusions feature:

1. Hassle-free transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off

2. Knowledgeable local guide to enhance the cultural experience

3. Guaranteed skip-the-line access to major attractions like Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia

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Booking Information

Booking the Istanbul Old City tour is a straightforward process, allowing participants to conveniently check availability for their desired dates and group size. With a "reserve now, pay later" option, travelers can secure their spot without an upfront payment. The tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility should plans change.

To assist with the booking, the provider offers a clear overview of the tour’s inclusions and pricing:

Inclusion	Details
Duration	8 hours
Price	From 391 Turkish Lira per person
Cancellation	Free up to 24 hours in advance
Payment	Reserve now, pay later

This comprehensive booking experience ensures a seamless planning process for Istanbul’s Old City exploration.

Hotel Pickup and Drop-off

Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off bookend the day’s explorations, ensuring a seamless start and end to the Istanbul Old City tour.

This inclusive service removes the hassle of navigating the city on your own, allowing you to fully learn about the day’s activities.

The tour operator provides:

1. Complimentary pickup from your hotel in the Sultanahmet area, transporting you directly to the tour’s starting point at Halic.

2. A guided journey through the iconic landmarks, with an expert local sharing insights and history along the way.

3. Effortless return to your hotel at the conclusion of the tour, so you can relax and reflect on the day’s unforgettable experiences.

Professional Local Guide Service

Complementing the seamless hotel transfers, the tour’s expert local guide service enhances the Old City discovery. They’ll bring the rich history and iconic landmarks to life through captivating commentary and insider knowledge.

From the majestic Sultan Ahmed Mosque to the grandeur of Topkapi Palace, the guide’s expertise ensures you fully learn about Istanbul’s timeless wonders. With a seasoned historian leading the way, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the architectural marvels and cultural significance of each site.

Whether it’s pointing out hidden details or sharing fascinating anecdotes, the guide’s personalized attention will elevate your experience and leave you with a newfound appreciation for Istanbul’s storied past.

Guaranteed Skip-the-line Tickets

Seamless entry to Istanbul’s premier attractions awaits, as the tour package includes guaranteed skip-the-line tickets for both Topkapi Palace and the iconic Hagia Sophia.

By bypassing the lengthy queues, travelers can make the most of their time, seeing the captivating histories and architectural wonders of these renowned landmarks without the hassle of waiting in line.

This convenience allows visitors to:

1. Spend more time exploring the intricate mosaics, towering domes, and sacred spaces that define these iconic sites.

2. Gain deeper insights from the expert local guide during the included tours.

3. Enjoy a more relaxed and efficient sightseeing experience in Istanbul’s Old City.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Suit My Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to suit your interests. The tour provider offers flexibility to adjust the itinerary based on your preferences, ensuring you get the most out of your Istanbul exploration.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Hidden Costs During the Tour?

The tour package includes all necessary fees and tickets, with no hidden costs. Travelers can enjoy the full-day experience without any surprise expenses beyond the initial tour price and optional tips for the guide.

Is the Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?

The tour seems well-suited for families with young children. It includes pickup and drop-off, professional guides, and guided tours of key sites. The itinerary provides a good mix of structured activities and free time for families to explore at their own pace.

Are Any Dietary Requirements Accommodated During the Included Lunch?

The tour provider accommodates dietary requirements during the included lunch. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request to ensure all participants can enjoy a satisfying meal during the full-day adventure.

Can I Receive a Refund if I Need to Cancel the Tour Within 24 Hours?

Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to receive a full refund if needed. This flexible policy provides peace of mind when booking your Istanbul sightseeing experience.

The Sum Up

Explore the captivating history and grandeur of Istanbul’s Old City on this unforgettable full-day tour.

From the stunning Sultan Ahmed Mosque to the opulent Topkapi Palace, you’ll uncover the city’s rich cultural heritage, guided by an expert local historian.

With convenient hotel pickup, skip-the-line access, and a delightful lunch in the vibrant Sultanahmet District, this tour promises an immersive and unforgettable experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: