Istanbul’s Highlights: A Full-Day Guided Tour

Explore Istanbul’s top attractions in a single day! Visit Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar with a knowledgeable guide. Dive into the city’s rich history, culture, and vibrant charm.

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Overview

Experience the best of Istanbul in just one day on this expertly guided tour, designed to showcase the city's most iconic landmarks and vibrant cultural heritage. This comprehensive tour takes you through Istanbul's historic heart, blending stunning architecture, fascinating history, and bustling local life.

Begin your journey at the Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic structures in the world. Marvel at its breathtaking dome, intricate mosaics, and rich history as both a cathedral and a mosque.

Next, visit the majestic Blue Mosque, renowned for its six minarets and stunning blue-tiled interior. Learn about its significance in Istanbul’s cultural and religious history.

Continue to the Hippodrome of Constantinople, an ancient site that once served as the center of Byzantine public life. See the remaining monuments, including the Serpent Column and the Egyptian Obelisk.

Explore the opulent Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans. Wander through its grand courtyards, intricate chambers, and the treasury housing precious artifacts, including the Topkapi Dagger and the Spoonmaker’s Diamond.

Enjoy a relaxing lunch at a local restaurant, where you can savor delicious Turkish cuisine.

In the afternoon, head to the lively Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. Browse thousands of shops offering everything from handcrafted goods and jewelry to spices and textiles.

Throughout the tour, your knowledgeable guide will provide insightful commentary, bringing Istanbul’s rich history and vibrant culture to life.

This one-day experience is perfect for those who want to explore Istanbul’s highlights efficiently while still enjoying a rich and immersive experience. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or a first-time visitor, this tour offers a perfect introduction to Istanbul’s wonders.

This tour includes a professional guide, entry tickets to listed attractions, and lunch at a traditional Turkish restaurant. Personal expenses and tips for the guide are not included.

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as there will be some walking between attractions. Modest clothing is required for entry to mosques.

Select date, participants and language

Adult x 1, Child x 0

Adult

Age 8-25+

Child

Age 0-7

Excursion Itinerary

Istanbul
Start Activities

Van (Transfer)
Duration: 45 Min.

Begin your journey at the selected starting point, based on your chosen option.


Hagia Sophia
Photo stop, Visit,
Duration: 75 Min. Optional, Extra Fee

Begin with a guided tour of the iconic Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (Extra fee)


Sultan Ahmed Mosque
Visit, Guided tour,
Duration: 1 Hour.

Visit the stunning Blue Mosque, renowned for its intricate blue-tiled interior and grandeur.


Sultanahmet Square
Photo stop, Visit, Guided tour,
Duration: 15 Min.

Take a photo stop and enjoy a brief guided tour of this historic square in the heart of Istanbul.


German Fountain
Photo stop,
Duration: 15 Min.

Visit this beautiful gift from the German Kaiser Wilhelm II, with its elegant design and history.


Obelisk of Theodosius
Break time, Photo stop,
Duration: 10 Min.

Marvel at this ancient Egyptian obelisk brought to Constantinople by Emperor Theodosius III.


Serpent Column
Photo stop, Visit,
Duration: 15 Min.

Stop at the fascinating Serpent Column, an ancient relic of the Delphic Oracle.


Sultanahmet District
Lunch,
Duration: 1 Hour.

Enjoy a delicious traditional Turkish lunch at a local restaurant in the historic district.


Topkapi Palace
Visit, Guided tour,
Duration: 2 Hours. Optional, Extra Fee

Explore the former palace of Ottoman sultans, filled with treasures and history. (Extra fee)


Grand Bazaar
Visit, Guided tour,
Duration: 1 Hour.

End your tour with free time for shopping in one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world.


Istanbul
Finish Activities

For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.

Highlights

  • Explore Istanbul's top tourist attractions in a single, unforgettable day.
  • Marvel at the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the iconic Hagia Sophia.
  • Dive into Istanbul’s rich history with insights from a knowledgeable guide.
  • Indulge in a delicious, authentic Turkish lunch at a local restaurant.
  • Discover the bustling Grand Bazaar, navigating its maze of vibrant shops and treasures.

What's Included and What's Not?

Included

  • Convenient hotel pickup from centrally located accommodations
  • Comfortable transportation
  • Expert guidance 
  • Delicious lunch 
  • Headsets provided for groups larger than 12

Not Included

  • Topkapi Palace entry fee (1700 TL per person to be paid in cash)
  • Hagia Sophia entry fee (€ 25 per person)
  • Drinks

Not Suitable For This Activities

  • People with mobility impairments

Not Allowed This Activities

  • Alcohol and drugs
  • Smoking in the vehicle

Important Information

What to Bring

Camera
Cash
Comfortable clothes
Comfortable shoes
Sunglasses
Sunscreen

Information Before Booking

  • Modest clothing is required for entry to mosques. Comfortable shoes are recommended.
  • The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia may be inaccessible during prayer times or special events.

Know Before You Go

  • Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays and will be replaced with a visit to the Basilica Cistern.
  • The inner sections of the Grand Bazaar are closed on Sundays.
  • The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia cannot be visited during prayer times or special events.
  • The tour concludes at the Grand Bazaar, allowing you time to explore further.

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About This Activity

Free Cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Reserve Now & Pay Later

Keep your travel plans flexible - book your spot and pay nothing today

Duration 7  Hours

Check availability to see starting times.

Live Tour Guide

English, French, German, Japanese, Russian, Spanish

Pickup Optional

Please wait at the main entrance, as the vehicle is unable to enter the hotel premises.

Location

Istanbul Türkiye

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From

€52

per person

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Select person

Adult

12y+

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Children

2 - 12 years

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Infant

Below 2 years

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