Istanbul Highlights Tour
A small-group, first-timer's walk through old Istanbul, taking in four Sultanahmet landmarks with a local guide.
What you'll experience
This small-group tour covers the four 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. The tour finishes at Topkapı Palace, the seat of the Ottoman sultans, where you can walk the courtyards and look out over the Bosphorus. Your local guide brings the history to life at each stop and keeps the group small, so there is room to ask questions without the crowds.
- 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.
Frequently asked questions
Which landmarks does the Istanbul Highlights Tour cover?
The tour visits four landmarks in old Istanbul: the ancient Hippodrome, the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapı Palace. They all sit within walking distance in Sultanahmet.
Are entrance fees to the attractions included?
No, entrance fees are not included. You pay separately for the sites you'd like to enter, so you can choose which ones to visit.
Where does the tour start?
The tour starts in Sultanahmet, where you'll meet your guide at the Hippodrome. From there the route continues on foot to the other three landmarks.
How much does the tour cost?
Prices start from $55 per person. The rate scales with group size, so the per-person cost depends on how many people join.
How many people are in the group?
This is a small group tour with a maximum of 15 people. Keeping the group small leaves room to ask questions and take in each stop without the crowds.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 3 days before the tour. This gives you flexibility if your schedule shifts.