Istanbul City Tour: Discovering History and Culture
Per Group 18,500 ₺
Tour detail
If you are seeking a unique route where history, culture, and modern life meet, our “Istanbul” tour takes you on an unforgettable journey across the Bosphorus. This captivating city, which has served as the capital of empires for centuries, offers a different story at every step. Our program has been carefully designed for both first-time visitors and those who want to rediscover Istanbul.
Hagia Sophia
Sultan Ahmed Mosque
Topkapi Palace
Basilica Cistern
Starting in the historic peninsula, you will explore architectural marvels from Byzantium to the Ottoman Empire with our guide’s narration. As you walk beneath the magnificent dome of Hagia Sophia, you will trace the marks of centuries; the tiles and elegant courtyard of Sultan Ahmed Mosque will transport you to a different atmosphere. At Topkapi Palace, you will witness the daily life of sultans, palace intrigues, and priceless treasures; at Basilica Cistern, you will stroll among the columns in the cool, dim light and hear the mysterious story of Medusa's heads.
Grand Bazaar
Spice Bazaar
Galata Tower
Istiklal Avenue
For those seeking shopping and city life experiences, the route extends to the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar. Step into centuries-old shops and explore a colorful world of carpets, spices, jewelry, and antiques. Then, head to Galata to enjoy panoramic views of the Golden Horn and Bosphorus from the tower’s top. You can also take a lively walk along Istiklal Avenue filled with street performers, historic passages, and cafes.
Ortaköy
Dolmabahçe Palace
Bosporus Bridge
Uskudar Coast
Maiden's Tower
With a Bosphorus cruise, you will have the chance to see Istanbul’s skyline from the water. At Ortaköy, you can take a break by the sea with kumpir and waffles. Marvel at Dolmabahçe Palace’s elegant architecture and crystal chandeliers that showcase the Ottoman Empire’s final grandeur. While navigating the blue waters of the Bosphorus by boat, don’t forget to capture photos of the bridges, mansions, and palaces. On the Asian side, enjoy a tea with a view of Maiden’s Tower at Uskudar promenade at sunset and encounter the romantic face of the city.
Fener and Balat Streets
Suleymaniye Mosque
Pierre Loti Hill
Eyüp Sultan Mosque
Throughout the tour, our break points will offer simit (bagel) and tea, and you will experience delicious traditional Turkish cuisine during lunch or dinner. Guests who wish can take photo breaks in the colorful streets of Balat, have coffee with a view of the Golden Horn from Pierre Loti Hill, and enjoy peaceful walks around Suleymaniye Mosque. Our professional guides, comfortable transportation, and carefully selected stops are designed for those who want to not only see the city but also feel it – this “Istanbul” tour is created for you.
What's included
Professional Turkish guide service
Visits to Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet Mosque, and Hippodrome Square
Tour of Topkapi Palace and Gülhane Park
Boat or ship tour on the Bosphorus
Shopping breaks at the Grand Bazaar and Egyptian Bazaar
City transportation with comfortable tourist bus
Traditional Turkish meals at selected occasions
Hotel–airport round-trip transfer service
Not included
Visa fees
Personal expenses and shopping costs
Overseas departure tax
Travel insurance
Lunch and dinner (unless otherwise specified)
Museum and historical site entrance fees
Need to Know
Throughout the tour, you'll visit major historical and cultural sites such as Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Sultanahmet Mosque, the Grand Bazaar, and the Bosphorus: This tour will explore the iconic buildings and regions that have left a mark on Istanbul’s history and cultural heritage in detail. Your guide will explain both the architectural features and the significance of these sites during the Ottoman and Byzantine periods, providing a comprehensive understanding of the city.
Since walking distances may occasionally be lengthy, it is recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the season: Since there will be frequent walking on foot during the day, often on hilly, cobblestone streets, choosing athletic or walking shoes that support your feet is advised. Additionally, as Istanbul’s weather conditions vary according to the season, dressing in layers, and bringing rain jackets or sun protection accessories will enhance your comfort.
For public transportation within Istanbul, Istanbulkart is used; it is important to remember that this card is required for metro, tram, bus, and ferry services: Since almost all urban transportation options are accessed with Istanbulkart, obtaining the card in advance and loading sufficient balance onto it is essential. This will free you from ticket searching and enable quick and smooth transitions between routes.
During the tour, local foods will be sampled; please inform the tour guide in advance of any special dietary preferences or allergies: The program includes stops at restaurants and eateries where you can experience Istanbul's unique flavors. If you have dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, or if you have food allergies, providing this information to the guide beforehand will ensure that suitable alternatives are organized for you.
If a Bosphorus cruise or boat trips are planned, bringing windproof clothing and waterproof equipment for photography is recommended: The wind over the Bosphorus can cause a temperature drop, especially in the evening, so carrying a light jacket, windbreaker, or scarf can increase comfort. If you plan to take photos with your camera or phone, using protective cases or waterproof equipment will safeguard your devices against splashes.
When visiting historic mosques and places of worship, modest attire covering shoulders and knees is expected, and loud talking inside is discouraged: These sites are also active sacred places, so respectful and moderate behavior, including women wearing headscarves if necessary and men opting for long trousers instead of shorts, will make the visit more harmonious and pleasant.
Since walking distances may occasionally be lengthy, it is recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the season: Since there will be frequent walking on foot during the day, often on hilly, cobblestone streets, choosing athletic or walking shoes that support your feet is advised. Additionally, as Istanbul’s weather conditions vary according to the season, dressing in layers, and bringing rain jackets or sun protection accessories will enhance your comfort.
For public transportation within Istanbul, Istanbulkart is used; it is important to remember that this card is required for metro, tram, bus, and ferry services: Since almost all urban transportation options are accessed with Istanbulkart, obtaining the card in advance and loading sufficient balance onto it is essential. This will free you from ticket searching and enable quick and smooth transitions between routes.
During the tour, local foods will be sampled; please inform the tour guide in advance of any special dietary preferences or allergies: The program includes stops at restaurants and eateries where you can experience Istanbul's unique flavors. If you have dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, or if you have food allergies, providing this information to the guide beforehand will ensure that suitable alternatives are organized for you.
If a Bosphorus cruise or boat trips are planned, bringing windproof clothing and waterproof equipment for photography is recommended: The wind over the Bosphorus can cause a temperature drop, especially in the evening, so carrying a light jacket, windbreaker, or scarf can increase comfort. If you plan to take photos with your camera or phone, using protective cases or waterproof equipment will safeguard your devices against splashes.
When visiting historic mosques and places of worship, modest attire covering shoulders and knees is expected, and loud talking inside is discouraged: These sites are also active sacred places, so respectful and moderate behavior, including women wearing headscarves if necessary and men opting for long trousers instead of shorts, will make the visit more harmonious and pleasant.
What to Bring?
Comfortable walking shoes
Sunscreen and hat
Light raincoat or umbrella
Passport and ID card
Camera or smartphone with a good camera
Re refillable water bottle
Tour program
Historical Peninsula Tour
INCLUDED:
⇒ Round-trip Transportation Fare
⇒ Guide Service
⇒ In-vehicle water service
⇒ Environmental Tours specified in the program
EXCLUDED:
⇒ Personal expenses
⇒ Entrance fees to museums and archaeological sites
Tours covering main attractions such as Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, and Grand Bazaar