Small Group Tour: Essential Istanbul

Dive into the enchanting heart of Sultanahmet, Istanbul's revered old city, on a comprehensive small-group tour guided by an expert. This journey through time brings you face-to-face with Istanbul's most iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites and historical monuments. Unveils the legendary history of Istanbul, from its days as the capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires to its modern-day splendor. This tour promises an intimate exploration of Istanbul's most beloved landmarks and ancient streets.

This experience spans approximately 8 hours and is the perfect addition to your Turkey travel itinerary. Previous participants have given this historical tour an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 597 reviews.

Begin a captivating excursion through the historical heart of Istanbul, with a convenient pick-up from your hotel. In a small group setting, guided by an expert, you'll set out on foot to explore the ancient district of Sultanahmet. Discover the architectural wonder of the Blue Mosque, renowned for its striking blue tiles and harmonious blend of Byzantine Christian architecture with Islamic design. Navigate the bustling Grand Bazaar, filled with a colorful array of spices, carpets, and Turkish delight. Alternatively, visit the Spice Bazaar on Sundays when the Grand Bazaar is closed. Stand in awe of the Hagia Sophia, a testament to religious transformation from a 6th-century Christian church to a mosque. Then, wander the historic Hippodrome, once the bustling center of Byzantine life, where ancient chariot races and public gatherings took place. Your journey also highlights the splendor of the Topkapi Palace, the luxurious home of Ottoman sultans, where you can stroll through lush gardens and lavish chambers adorned with exquisite Ottoman artwork and treasures. On Tuesdays, when the palace is closed, delve into the underground wonders of the Basilica Cistern to witness the captivating play of light and shadow reflected on its waters. This immersive adventure through Istanbul's treasures wraps up with a return to your hotel, leaving you with lasting impressions of its rich heritage.

Throughout the historical tour, you’ll be accompanied by a knowledgeable tour guide who will enhance your experience with unique insights. The activity is offered in English and welcomes English speakers of all levels.

The starting point for this historical tour is located in Istanbul. The exact address is Binbirdirek, At Meydanı Cd No:53, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye. The endpoint of the tour is located at Beyazıt, 34126 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye. The first tour departure is at 09:00. You can select the exact time slot in the booking widget.

To ensure a pleasant experience for all participants, the maximum group size for this tour is 10 people. We recommend you review the "Included" and "Good to know" sections below for more details about the tour.

The cancellation policy for this cultural tour is as follows: For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Capture the essence of Istanbul by joining this intimate small group tour. This immersive journey promises an unforgettable exploration of the city's rich heritage and dynamic culture. Choose your preferred travel dates and reserve your spot now to ensure you don't miss this unique opportunity. Hurry, as slots are eagerly sought after and quickly taken!