Istanbul: Guided Segway Tour of the Old Town

When it comes to exploring Istanbul’s historic heart, a sightseeing tour that’s both fun and informative is a top choice. This Guided Segway Tour of the Old Town promises a unique way to see the city’s most iconic landmarks while zipping around on a Segway. With a solid 5-star rating from nearly 200 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this experience both enjoyable and worthwhile.

What immediately draws us to this tour are three things: its ability to combine ease of movement, making Istanbul’s sprawling sights accessible, the personalized guidance from knowledgeable guides, and the coverage of major landmarks in just a few hours. The fact that many reviewers mention the guides’ passion and expertise gives us confidence in the quality of the experience. A potential drawback? It’s not suitable for children under 11, or those over 95 or 260 lbs, which is worth considering if you’re traveling with family or larger groups. Still, for those who meet the criteria, it’s an adventure that’s perfect for history buffs, first-time visitors, or anyone looking to cover a lot of ground without tiring out.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, light adventure, and engaging storytelling. If you want to see the major sites like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace in a short amount of time, it’s an excellent choice. Active travelers who don’t mind a little learning along the way will find it particularly rewarding.

• Efficient sightseeing: Covering major landmarks in just 3 hours, ideal for tight schedules or first-timers.
• Expert guides: Guides like Tarik and Tariq are praised for their knowledge, making history engaging and accessible.
• Fun and accessible: Segways are easy to learn, with most riders feeling comfortable within minutes.
• Authentic insights: Guides share fascinating facts, myths, and local stories that enrich the experience.
• Great value: Included gear, helmets, and waterproofs ensure safety and comfort, with a focus on quality.
• Limited group size: Small groups (up to 7) mean personalized attention and less crowded streets.

Starting Point & Initial Impressions
The tour kicks off at Istanbul Segway Tours, conveniently located just a short walk from Sultanahmet tram station. Meeting in front of the fire station, it’s an easy spot to find. You’re greeted by friendly staff who provide a quick safety briefing and introduce the equipment. Most riders report feeling confident after just a couple of minutes practicing riding the Segway, making it accessible even for complete beginners.

Beyazit Square & The First Stops
The journey begins with a 25-minute ride through Beyazit, a lively area packed with academic institutions and buzzing markets. Reviewers like Anna and Graham appreciated the smooth start, noting the guide’s clear instructions and patience. This part of the tour offers a chance to take photos, enjoy the street scenes, and get comfortable on your Segway before heading into more historic territory.

Suleymaniye Mosque & the Roman Heritage
Next, you’ll glide toward the Suleymaniye Mosque, often praised for its majestic presence. The guide shares fascinating stories about Sultan Suleyman and the mosque’s architectural significance. The 25-minute ride here allows for some fantastic photos—reviewers like Elias comment on the breathtaking views and the chance to see the city from a different angle.

Valens Aqueduct & The Ancient Waterway
As you continue, the Valens Aqueduct presents a striking reminder of ancient Roman engineering. The guided commentary makes it a highlight, with visitors noting how the Segway’s speed lets you see more than you could on foot, all while soaking in the impressive structure.

Historic Landmarks & Iconic Sites
The route then takes you past Ehzade Mosque and Constantine’s Column, each offering a peek into Istanbul’s layered past. The Hippodrome of Constantinople is the next stop, where you’ll spend about 25 minutes exploring and snapping photos. Many guests, including John and Steve, comment on how this stop offers a great mix of history and lively street views, perfect for a quick but meaningful visit.

Hagia Sophia & Sultan Ahmed Mosque
The tour’s highlight is undoubtedly the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Both sites are stunning from the outside, and the short stops (15 minutes each) are enough to appreciate their grandeur and take pictures. These stops are often described as the “must-see” moments, with reviewers mentioning the guides’ stories that add context to these world-famous landmarks.

Gulhane Park & Leisure Break
A walk through Gulhane Park provides a peaceful respite amid the tour. Many reviewers find this break valuable—it’s an opportunity to relax, take photos, and enjoy the greenery in the midst of sightseeing. The park’s extensive beauty, combined with the guide’s commentary, makes it more than just a rest stop.

Final Stops & Return
The last part of the journey includes brief rides past the Beyazit Square and Column of Constantine before returning to the starting point. The overall pace is gentle, and most guests mention feeling safe and well-guided throughout.

For the price, you’re getting a comprehensive look at Istanbul’s most famous sights, all in a fun, dynamic format. The gear—including helmets and waterproof gear—adds a layer of professionalism and safety that’s reassuring. Plus, the small group size ensures personalized guidance, which reviewers like Sarah and Darrell highly appreciate.

Considering the tour’s duration (around 3 hours), it’s an efficient way to see many landmarks without the fatigue of walking long distances or navigating busy streets on your own. It’s especially beneficial for first-time visitors wanting a solid overview of the Old Town’s highlights.

The guides are frequently praised for their friendliness and knowledge. Tariq and Tarik, in particular, are singled out for their storytelling, patience, and ability to make history come alive. As Elias notes, the commentary “made the overall enjoyment better,” showing how a good guide can elevate the experience from a simple ride to a memorable cultural adventure.

Timing & Duration
With a 3-hour window, you’ll want to arrive on time and wear comfortable shoes and clothes, as recommended. The starting times vary, so check availability beforehand. The tour often begins in the morning or early afternoon, fitting well into most sightseeing plans.

Group Size & Language
Limited to 7 participants, the small-group format keeps it intimate and allows the guide to give more personal attention. The tour is conducted in English, so communicating your questions or concerns is straightforward.

Age & Physical Requirements
While most guests find Segway riding straightforward, it’s not suitable for children under 11, or those over 95 or 118 kg (260 lbs). If you’re in this age or weight range, consider other options.

Cost & Value
Priced competitively, the tour includes all necessary equipment, which adds convenience. Many reviews mention that it’s a very good value for the money, especially considering the amount of ground covered and the depth of historical information shared.

Many travelers highlight the guides’ expertise. Anna mentions that the guide “did a great job telling us historical facts in an interesting way,” and Linda raves about Tariq being “very knowledgeable and fun.” The breathtaking views and the unique perspective on Istanbul are points frequently praised, with Elias describing it as a “fantastic adventure.”

Several reviews emphasize the fun factor — riding Segways in Istanbul is described as “super fun,” and a “great way to see the city’s sights in a short time.” The ease of maneuvering the Segways, even for first-timers, is a common theme, with guests noting that they felt comfortable within minutes.

The personalized experience shines through in comments about guides making everyone feel safe and involved, even under less-than-ideal weather conditions. Such attentiveness adds a layer of confidence and enjoyment, making the tour memorable.

This Segway tour of Istanbul’s Old Town ticks a lot of boxes: it’s fun, efficient, educational, and offers a practical way to soak up the city’s most famous sights. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see a lot without exhausting themselves or spending hours on foot. The knowledgeable guides, like Tariq and Tarik, make history accessible and entertaining, turning a sightseeing trip into a lively cultural introduction.

If you’re someone who enjoys light adventure, appreciates storytelling, and wants a memorable way to explore Istanbul, this tour is a smart pick. It’s also perfect if you’re short on time but don’t want to miss the city’s key landmarks.

However, keep in mind the age and weight restrictions if traveling with family or larger groups. And be prepared to wear comfortable clothes and shoes to get the most out of the experience.

This tour offers superb value—covering everything from ancient Roman aqueducts to the domes of the Blue Mosque in just a few hours. It’s a fun, social, and insightful way to start your Istanbul adventure.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, most riders learn to ride the Segway in less than two minutes. The guide provides a safety briefing and initial practice to ensure everyone feels comfortable.

How long is the ride at each stop?
Stops vary from about 10 to 25 minutes, allowing enough time for photos, sightseeing, and listening to the guide’s stories.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended. The tour provides waterproof gear if it rains, so don’t worry about sudden showers.

Are helmets included?
Yes, helmets are part of the gear provided for safety during the tour.

Can I join if I am over 95 years old?
No, the tour is not suitable for those over 95, as there are age restrictions.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, the activity starts at the meeting point near Sultanahmet, so plan your transportation accordingly.

This guided Segway tour of Istanbul’s Old Town offers a perfect blend of fun, history, and efficiency. It’s a fantastic way to see the city’s most iconic sites, especially if you want a lively, engaging introduction to this incredible metropolis.