Istanbul: Full-Day Old City Tour With Lunch

Istanbul, a city where history and modernity collide, beckons travelers to explore its captivating heritage. On this full-day tour, visitors can experience the iconic landmarks that define the Old City, from the grandeur of Hagia Sophia to the vibrant hues of the Blue Mosque. But the journey doesn’t stop there – explore the bustling Grand Bazaar and savor the aromatic spices of the Egyptian market, all while indulging in a traditional Turkish lunch. With a local expert to guide the way, this immersive experience promises to unveil the city’s captivating essence, leaving you eager to uncover more of Istanbul’s treasures.

Key Points

• The tour covers major historical attractions in Istanbul’s old city, including Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar.
• The full-day tour lasts 7 hours and includes a traditional Turkish lunch for culture.
• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off service is provided from select locations in the city.
• The tour is suitable for a diverse age group, from infants to adults, with a focus on inclusivity.
• Customers have praised the knowledgeable guides, seamless organization, and well-curated itinerary, resulting in an overall 5-star rating.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Istanbul Full-Day Old City Tour with Lunch provides visitors an immersive exploration of the historic landmarks, cultural heritage, and vibrant atmosphere of Istanbul’s old city for £123.33 per person.

This 7-hour tour allows guests to discover the city’s top attractions, including the iconic Hagia Sophia, the stunning Blue Mosque, the grand Topkapi Palace, and the bustling Grand Bazaar.

With a duration of 7 hours, the tour offers ample time to fully experience the highlights of Istanbul’s old quarter.

Plus, the tour includes a traditional Turkish lunch, ensuring a well-rounded culture.

Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy and reserve their spot with a pay later option, making the tour accessible and flexible.

Itinerary Highlights

Visitors embark on a captivating journey through Istanbul’s rich history, exploring the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia Museum, the iconic Blue Mosque renowned for its 20,000 blue-tiled interior, and the expansive Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans.

They’ll discover the Hippodrome of Constantinople, the city’s ancient political center, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Egyptian spice market.

A traditional Turkish lunch at a local restaurant offers a chance to savor the flavors of the region.

The tour also includes a visit to the Grand Bazaar, where travelers can browse the stalls offering gold, jewelry, leather, and spices.

Inclusions

In an article titled ‘Istanbul: Full-Day Old City Tour With Lunch’, it’s now time to discuss the CURRENT SUBTOPIC ‘Inclusions’.

The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off from select locations, ensuring convenient transportation to and from the historic sites.

All entrance fees are covered, allowing participants to explore the landmarks hassle-free.

A local expert guide leads the way, sharing invaluable insights into Istanbul’s rich history and culture.

Lunch and drinks are also provided, offering a chance to savor traditional Turkish cuisine during the day-long adventure.

With these inclusions, travelers can focus on seeing the city’s captivating sights and experiences without worrying about additional costs or logistical hassles.

Participant Information

Flexibility abounds, as the Istanbul Old City Tour caters to a diverse range of participants – from adults and youth to children and even infants, accommodating most age groups.

Whether you’re an eager explorer aged 18 to 99 or a curious child between 4 and 8, this tour welcomes you with open arms.

However, it’s important to note that the experience may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments, as navigating the historical sites and cobbled streets can prove challenging.

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Customer Reviews and Feedback

Glowing reviews and enthusiastic feedback characterize the customer response to the Istanbul Old City Tour, with an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars based on 4 reviews.

Travelers praised the tour’s knowledgeable and friendly guides, who brought the city’s rich history to life. Punctual pickups and drop-offs ensured a seamless experience, while the ability to see Istanbul from diverse perspectives, including a boat cruise, left a lasting impression.

Customers appreciated the tour’s well-curated itinerary, which allowed them to explore iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar.

Important Information

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes to explore the historic sites and navigate the bustling streets of Istanbul’s old city during the tour.

Luggage or large bags aren’t allowed, as they can be cumbersome and impede movement through the crowded areas.

The tour covers a lot of ground, so proper footwear is essential for comfortably walking between the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and other iconic landmarks.

Plus, the market and bazaar visits involve extensive browsing, so having supportive shoes will make the experience more enjoyable.

Hotel Pickup and Drop-off Locations

The tour operator offers hotel pickup and drop-off services from several convenient locations in Istanbul, including Taksim Square, Aksaray, Beyazit, Sultanahmet, and Sirkeci. This makes it easy for travelers to start and end their sightseeing tour without additional hassle.

Location	Pickup	Drop-off
Taksim Square	✓	✓
Aksaray	✓	✓
Beyazit	✓	✓
Sultanahmet	✓	✓
Sirkeci	✓	✓

The pickup service ensures a seamless start to the tour, while the drop-off at the end allows travelers to easily continue their exploration of Istanbul or return to their accommodations.

Traditional Turkish Lunch

Nestled within the tour’s jam-packed itinerary, travelers will savor a traditional Turkish lunch at a local restaurant, providing a welcomed respite and an authentic taste of the region’s culinary delights.

Diners can expect a spread of fragrant, flavorful dishes that embody the heart of Turkish cuisine. From succulent kebabs and savory dolmas to freshly baked bread and vibrant salads, the meal promises to delight the senses.

As they share this convivial dining experience, guests will have the chance to engage with their guide and fellow travelers, fostering a deeper appreciation for the country’s rich cultural heritage.

This midday feast promises to be a highlight, nourishing both the body and the spirit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Visit the Mosques During Prayer Times?

No, visitors cannot access mosques during prayer times. Mosques are off-limits to non-worshippers during the five daily prayer sessions. Visitors should plan their mosque visits around prayer schedules to avoid disruptions.

Will the Tour Guide Provide Recommendations for Local Restaurants?

The tour guide will likely provide recommendations for local restaurants during the tour. They’re knowledgeable about the area and can suggest authentic eateries that offer a true taste of Turkish cuisine.

Is There an Option to Explore the Tour Sites Independently?

The tour does not offer an option to explore the sites independently. Travelers must follow the guided itinerary for the duration of the 7-hour tour. Guests can’t veer off on their own during the scheduled activities.

Can I Take Photographs Inside the Historical Sites?

Visitors can generally take photographs inside the historical sites, but they should be mindful of any restrictions or rules. Some sites may prohibit flash photography or limit access to certain areas. It’s best to check with the tour guide or site staff.

Are There Any Additional Costs for Travel Insurance or Gratuities?

The tour package does not include travel insurance or gratuities. Guests are responsible for purchasing their own travel insurance and providing tips to the guide and driver at their discretion.

The Sum Up

Enjoy Istanbul’s captivating heritage on this comprehensive tour of the Old City.

Experience iconic landmarks, savor a traditional Turkish lunch, and explore the bustling markets.

It’s an unforgettable journey that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for Istanbul’s rich history and vibrant culture.

You can check if your dates are available here: