4 hours
E-voucher
English
Overview
Get the perfect introduction to Istanbul’s most iconic places during a half-day tour of the Old City with an experienced guide. Step into the world of Ottoman sultans and Byzantine emperors as you make your way from the Hippodrome to the Blue Mosque and the underground Basilica Cistern. Explore the gleaming mosaics at Hagia Sophia, then immerse yourself in the bright colors, vivid scents and bustling aisles of the Grand Bazaar. Enjoy the personal experience of a small-group tour, with insider tips and advice from a local.
Operated by
Real Istanbul Tours
Ratings & Reviews
Average Rating
4.87
/ 5
275 traveller ratings
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So much to learn, so little time: an excellent overview of Istanbul
O5304GWmeganm, Aug 2025
Muhammed was our guide and he was so engaging and knowledgeable! We had a wonderful morning and learned so much about Istanbul - its history, challenges and culture. Highly recommend!!!
Highly recommend our guide Özge
Olga R, Aug 2025
We felt lucky to have Özge as a guide and we were the only ones who went on the guided tour that day. All the activities went very smoothly, we learned a lot new things. It was friendly and relaxed atmosphere and we very much appreciated Özge's commitment ❤️
So so tour. Wish we would’ve done it on our own.
Indee_M, Jul 2025
Good tour but our tour guide was very long winded and irritable. Wish we would’ve done it on our own. We also ended up paying over $150 in tickets to each place. Too expensive.
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Thank you for your review. We're sorry to hear that your experience didn’t meet your expectations. However, we would kindly like to clarify a few points mentioned. As noted in the tour details at the time of booking, this was a group tour, and hotel pick-up was not included (As you asked to meet at your hotel ) We also clearly state that entrance fees are not included in the tour price. Specifically, the entrance to Hagia Sophia is €25 and the Basilica Cistern is 1500 TL per person (approximately €57 in total per person). For two guests, this comes to roughly €114, not $150 as mentioned for each site. We always encourage our guests to review the tour description carefully before booking to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all. We hope this helps clarify any misunderstandings, and we truly appreciate your feedback as it helps us improve. Best regards,
Excellent tour.
angelapG8868SX, Jul 2025
Highly recommend this tour. Our guide Muhammad was knowledgeable and engaging. He summarised complex history of Istanbul very well and was full of dad jokes! A couple of rest stops on the way as it was hot and we had refreshing lemon drink as part of the tour. Easy to find starting point.
Itinerary
The Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, Istanbul
The Hagia Sophia was once the principal church for all Christians, and after the division in Christianity, it became the leading church for the Orthodox community. Following the conquest of Istanbul by the Turks, it was transformed into a mosque. Your guide will take you inside and provide in-depth information to help you appreciate its beauty even more. Please note that the entry fee is 25 Euros per person, and we will purchase the tickets for you to skip the line. Kindly have the amount ready in cash.
starting 15th January 2024, Hagia Sophia entrance fee will be 25 Euros apply all foreginers.
45 minutesBasilica Cistern
We're going to explore the Basilica Cistern, an ancient water storage system designed to withstand long sieges. With its vast size and 336 columns, it's often referred to as the 'Underground Palace.' It's not only a remarkable historical site but also offers a unique and fascinating experience beneath the streets of Istanbul."
Please note that the entry fee is 900 TL per person, and we will purchase the tickets for you to skip the line. Kindly have the amount ready in cash. ( officials share that it will be 1300 TL pp but date is not confirmed yet ).
25 minutesBlue Mosque
We will visit the world-renowned Blue Mosque, officially known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque. Its stunning blue tiles and vibrant ceiling give it the nickname "Blue Mosque." Inside, your guide will explain Islam while you explore the breathtaking beauty of this architectural masterpiece.
30 minutesHippodrome
The Hippodrome of Constantinople was a circus that was the sporting and social centre of Constantinople, capital of the Byzantine Empire.
20 minutesCorlulu Ali Pasa Medresesi
At a point during the tour, your guide will choose a stop where you can enjoy a complimentary Turkish coffee or tea.
20 minutesReal Istanbul Tours
Small Group Tours
Grand Bazaar Jewelers
Visit one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world - Istanbul's Grand Bazaar
30 minutes
Experience
Highlights
Inclusions
- Skip the line tickets at Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern (Not Entrance Fees )
- Professional guide
- Tea or Turkish Coffee
Exclusions
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Tipping your guide.
- Basilica Cistern
- Hagia Sophia Mosque
Additional Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays and will be replaced with Spice Bazaars
- On Religious Fests Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar are closed and your guides can show alternative sites
- Meeting Time for the small group tours are 10 am ( 2 pm on fridays ) and if you book private option, meeting time is up to you.
- Tours Ends near Grand Bazaar
- Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
- None has right the skip the lines in Blue Mosque
Guide Languages
English
Cancellation Policy
A full refund will apply if you cancel more than 24 hours before the activity start time.
No refund is possible if you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time.