Private Istanbul Layover Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore the Blue Mosque's stunning architecture
- Discover the rich history of Hagia Sophia
- Wander through the opulent Topkapi Palace
- Experience the vibrant Grand Bazaar
- Enjoy a scenic Bosphorus Strait cruise
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Private guide
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Transportation in a comfortable vehicle
- Meals and drinks
Itinerary
Sultanahmet District
Blue Mosque (TEMPORARILY CLOSED BETWEEN JANUARY 1 - APRIL 1 ON 2023)
Hippodrome
Sultanahmet Square
Hagia Sophia Museum
Topkapi Palace
Grand Bazaar
Important information
Know before you book
- The tour is wheelchair accessible; please inform in advance for necessary arrangements.
- Service animals are allowed; notify the tour operator beforehand.
- The tour operates rain or shine; dress appropriately for the weather.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the tour involves significant walking.
- Bring a valid passport for entry into certain sites.
- Carry local currency for personal expenses and shopping.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Stroller Accessible
- Easy Public Transport
- Infants Required On Laps
Good to know
- Topkapı Palace and Hagia Irene is closed on Tuesdays
- Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.
- Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are closed until 2pm on Fridays.
- Kid-Friendly tour guide will be accompanying your family on this tour.
Traveler reviews
An exceptional guide who made our visit to Istanbul outstanding.
Our family stay in Istanbul in October 2025 was an absolutely exceptional experience, largely thanks to our guide ZAFER, who was simply remarkable. We had a very busy schedule and very little time on site, as we had to strictly adhere to our flight schedule. We asked him to show us as many must-see sites and places as possible in record time. Mission accomplished, and well beyond our expectations! Thanks to his perfect organization, efficiency, and extensive knowledge of the city, we were able to visit a tremendous number of places without ever feeling rushed or stressed. Everything went smoothly and pleasantly. His French is impeccable, which made the exchanges particularly easy and enriching. He is an extremely friendly, warm, cultured person who is passionate about the history and culture of Istanbul. Each of his explanations was captivating and full of interesting anecdotes. This day will remain one of the most beautiful memories of our trip. We wholeheartedly recommend this guide to anyone wishing to discover Istanbul in the best possible conditions.
A little preview
Better than staying in the airport, but too quick considering the time between the airport and downtown.
Exactly what we wanted
Hilal was absolutely the best guide and the company made everything easy for us. Van was spacious and spotless and Hilal was attentive to what we were interested in and took us to sights we didn’t even know about. 10/10 would recommend. She went above and beyond!!
Would definitely recommend
We really enjoyed our tour of Istanbul. Kemal was excellent. We had a late arrival and it was rainy and it was cold. Kemal put together a great itinerary and by the end of the tour we had over 10k steps. His knowledge of historical facts and location specific information was very valuable. We learned a lot. We were picked up right at the airport exit. The van was clean and spacious. We kept our items in the van during stops with no issues. The driver was great too. We would definitely use this tour operator again. Note: it is about an hour drive to and from the airport so that may decrease your time on tour.
Knowledgeable efficient and flexible tour
Great tour and service while being super flexible for our schedule. Was going to be shorter because of inbound flight delay and then ended up being longer due to outbound delay. We fit a lot in and learned a lot. Thx Ozzie!