Must Do Attractions in a Day
A private, first-timer's walk through old Istanbul, covering the big Sultanahmet landmarks at your group's own pace.
What you'll experience
This private tour covers the landmarks of old Istanbul, all within walking distance in Sultanahmet. You start at the ancient Hippodrome, the old chariot-racing square, then step inside the Blue Mosque to see its tilework and domes. From there you cross to Hagia Sophia, one of the world's great buildings, and hear how it went from cathedral to mosque to museum and back over nearly 1,500 years. Next you head underground into the Basilica Cistern with its columns and Medusa heads, before finishing at the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest covered markets in the world. Because it is just your group, your guide sets the pace around you, brings the history to life at each stop, and has time for the questions and detours you care about.
- Professional Local Guide
- Entrance Fees to Attractions
- Food & Drinks
- Personal Expenses
Start at the Hippodrome
The old square of Byzantine Constantinople, where chariot races, ceremonies and public events took place. See the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpent Column, and the Walled Obelisk.
Discover the Blue Mosque
An Ottoman architectural landmark, with its huge interior columns, stained glass, and İznik tiles.
Visit Topkapı Palace
Step inside to understand Ottoman court life.
Explore Hagia Sophia
One building that held empires and faiths across centuries, from cathedral to mosque to museum.
Basilica Cistern
An ancient underground water reservoir from the Byzantine city.
Enjoy the Grand Bazaar
One of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, in old Istanbul.
The End
Finish the tour at a central location.
Frequently asked questions
Which attractions does this tour cover?
You'll visit the ancient Hippodrome, the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, the Basilica Cistern, and the Grand Bazaar. All of these are in old Istanbul and within walking distance of each other in Sultanahmet.
Are entrance fees included in the price?
No, entrance fees to the attractions are not included. This lets you choose which sites you'd like to enter and pay for those individually.
How much does this tour cost?
The tour starts from $120 per person. Since it's a private tour, the price scales with your group size.
Where do we meet for the tour?
The tour starts in Sultanahmet, where all the landmarks are located. Your exact meeting point will be confirmed when you book.
Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors to Istanbul?
Yes, it's designed for first-time visitors who want to see the main landmarks of old Istanbul. Because it's private, your guide sets the pace around your group and has time for the questions and detours you care about.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 3 days before the tour. The tour runs for about 5 hours and is entirely private to your group.