Experience Istanbul’s best through carefully selected city tours that make the most of your time and money. Private guides excel at bringing major sites like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace to life with historical context and insider knowledge. The half-day walking tours in the Old City are particularly worthwhile, especially those led by art historians who reveal hidden stories behind every stone. Small-group tours efficiently cover the essential stops – Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, and Grand Bazaar – without feeling rushed. For those who prefer independence, audio tours work well. The full-day combinations of Old City walks plus Bosphorus cruises offer exceptional value. These tested and recommended tours help unlock Istanbul’s layers of history and culture.
Let’s explore our favorite Istanbul tours that consistently earn top marks from travelers.
Key Points
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Full-day and half-day private guided tours of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, including Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Blue Mosque, with flexible itinerary and high customer satisfaction.
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Cultural immersion and guided walking tours that provide in-depth insights into Istanbul’s rich heritage, led by knowledgeable art historians and local guides.
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Small-group and walking tours that offer personalized attention, skip-the-line access, and comprehensive exploration of the Old City’s major sites.
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Self-guided and audio tours that allow independent exploration of key landmarks like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace at one’s own pace.
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Comprehensive city and Bosphorus tours that combine iconic landmarks with a scenic cruise, offering a well-rounded experience of Istanbul’s history and culture.
ISTANBUL BEST : Iconic Landmarks FullDay Private Guided City Tour
Although Istanbul is renowned for its rich history and diverse cultural heritage, navigating the city’s iconic landmarks can be daunting for first-time visitors.
That’s where the “ISTANBUL BEST: Iconic Landmarks Full-Day Private Guided City Tour” comes in. This private sightseeing tour offers a comprehensive experience, taking visitors to must-see sites like the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, and Basilica Cistern.
With a professional private guide, travelers can enjoy personalized attention and the flexibility to customize the itinerary. The tour includes fast-track tickets, lunch, and transportation options, making it a convenient and hassle-free way to explore Istanbul’s iconic landmarks.
With excellent reviews and a 99% recommendation rate, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive and memorable experience in the city.
Read our full review: ISTANBUL BEST : Iconic Landmarks FullDay Private Guided City Tour Review
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Half Day Old City Tour by Art Historian
Why settle for a generic city tour when you can experience Istanbul’s iconic landmarks through the lens of an art historian?
This half-day Old City tour offers an immersive cultural experience, guiding you through must-see sites like the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar.
With an English-speaking art historian as your personal guide, you’ll uncover the city’s rich history and architectural wonders.
At just $15.85 per person, this small-group tour provides exceptional value, with ample photo opportunities and insights you won’t find elsewhere.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, making it a flexible and convenient option for your Istanbul adventure.
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Istanbul Full Day Old City Tour
This full-day Old City tour of Istanbul leads visitors on an immersive journey through the city’s iconic landmarks.
Travelers embark on a Mercedes Sprinter minivan from their hotel, exploring the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, Topkapi Palace, and Hagia Irene.
Entrance fees are included, though the Harem admission is extra.
With a professional licensed guide, the tour provides historical insights and easy navigation, earning a 5.0 rating from over 180 reviews.
However, some guests have noted communication issues and room for improvement in time management.
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Half Day Old City Morning Walking Tour
Embarking on a half-day walking tour of Istanbul’s Old City, travelers can enjoy the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.
Priced from €35 per person, this 4-hour English-language tour covers four major attractions: the Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, and Grand Bazaar.
With skip-the-line access, guests will enjoy a seamless experience guided by a knowledgeable professional. The tour also provides an opportunity to hone bargaining skills at the lively Grand Bazaar.
Wheelchair-accessible and with free cancellation up to 24 hours, this tour offers flexibility and convenience.
Based on a 5/5 rating from a single review, the tour delivers a positive customer experience filled with historical insights.
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Istanbul Small-Group City and Secret Streets Tour With Guide
Visitors to Istanbul can experience a comprehensive city tour with the Istanbul Small-Group City and Secret Streets Tour with Guide. This highly-rated tour offers a deep dive into the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden backstreets.
Led by an English-speaking professional guide, the group explores key sites like the Hagia Sophia, Hippodrome, and Grand Bazaar. The tour’s small group size of up to 15 travelers provides an intimate experience, allowing for personalized attention.
While a moderate amount of walking is involved, the tour’s accessibility and excellent value make it an appealing option for first-time visitors and those short on time.
With a 5.0-star rating and 97% traveler recommendation, this tour is a top pick for discovering Istanbul’s rich history and culture.
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Istanbul: City Tour With Audio Guide in Your Smartphone
For those seeking a comprehensive yet flexible way to explore Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, the Istanbul: City Tour With Audio Guide in Your Smartphone offers a compelling solution.
This self-guided tour allows visitors to discover Hagia Sophia, the Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace, and Dolmabahce Palace at their own pace, using an audio guide accessed through a smartphone.
With skip-the-line admission, travelers can efficiently navigate these top sights, learning about their rich history and cultural significance.
Priced from $34.21, this option provides a cost-effective and convenient way to maximize one’s time in Istanbul, with the freedom to explore on their own schedule.
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Istanbul City and Hidden Gem Private Guided Tour 1, 2, 3 Day Opt.
Frequently, the Istanbul City and Hidden Gem Private Guided Tour offers travelers a comprehensive 1, 2, or 3-day exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks and lesser-known gems.
The tour includes visits to Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahce Palace, Galata Tower, Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia, among other highlights.
With a professional guide, visitors can experience Istanbul’s rich history and culture through walking, ferry, subway, and tram transportation.
The tour includes entrance fees, local taxes, and public transportation, though meals and gratuities aren’t covered.
Wheelchair and stroller accessibility is available, though moderate physical fitness is recommended.
Overwhelmingly positive reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and personalized experiences.
Read our full review: Istanbul City and Hidden Gem Private Guided Tour 1, 2, 3 Day Opt. Review
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Istanbul: City Highlights Guided Tour
Embarking on the Istanbul: City Highlights Guided Tour allows visitors to enjoy the city’s rich history and captivating landmarks. Priced from SEK 589 per person, this 6-hour walking tour takes participants on a journey through Istanbul’s most significant sites, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the vibrant Grand Bazaar.
Led by an English-speaking guide, the tour offers the convenience of skip-the-line access to attractions. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this guided experience provides a flexible and hassle-free way to explore the highlights of Istanbul.
Customer reviews highlight the knowledgeable guide, despite some issues with the meeting point.
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Istanbul City Tour and Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise With Lunch
Expanding beyond the traditional city highlights, the Istanbul City Tour and Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise with Lunch offers a more comprehensive exploration of the city.
Spanning a full day, this tour allows visitors to discover iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, as well as enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Bosphorus Strait.
While the pace may feel rushed to some, others appreciate the tour’s ability to cover a wealth of sights and experiences.
With a knowledgeable guide, air-conditioned transportation, and a included Turkish lunch, this tour provides a well-rounded introduction to the vibrant city of Istanbul.
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Istanbul: Half-Day City Sightseeing Bus & Boat Tour
This half-day Istanbul sightseeing tour combines bus and boat transportation to showcase the city’s iconic landmarks efficiently.
The tour takes travelers on a panoramic bus ride through historic areas, including the Grand Bazaar and Sultanahmet Square, where the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque are located.
Guests then board a Bosphorus cruise to admire the city’s skyline from the water.
The tour provides skip-the-line access, ensuring a seamless experience.
With 4.4 out of 5 stars from 448 reviews and a price of Kč 2,485, this comprehensive sightseeing option is a practical choice for time-conscious visitors to Istanbul.
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Istanbul Old City Guided Walking Tour
The Istanbul Old City Guided Walking Tour offers visitors an immersive exploration of the historical heart of the city. With a maximum of 20 travelers, this personal and intimate experience focuses on iconic sites like the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Grand Bazaar.
Guided by knowledgeable professionals praised for their local insights and friendly demeanor, the tour provides an informative and engaging way to discover Istanbul’s rich heritage. Accessibility features, such as wheelchair and stroller access, ensure a comfortable experience for all.
Reviewers consistently highlight the tour’s memorable moments, from sampling local cuisine to receiving insightful suggestions for further exploration. Availability of free cancellation and flexible rescheduling make this a convenient and reliable option for visitors.
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Istanbul: Exclusive Wonders of the City Tour W/Turkish Lunch
Travelers seeking an exclusive immersion into Istanbul’s iconic wonders can embark on the Istanbul: Exclusive Wonders of the City Tour W/Turkish Lunch.
This full-day tour showcases the city’s most renowned sites, including the Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Grand Bazaar.
Highlights include guided tours, photo stops, and a traditional Turkish lunch.
The tour is priced at €61.50 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Participants are advised to be aware of restrictions, such as not being suitable for those with altitude sickness or children under 2 years old.
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Segway Istanbul Old City Tour – Morning
Embarking on the Segway Istanbul Old City Tour – Morning, participants embark on a captivating exploration of Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet district.
With a 99% traveler recommendation and small group size, the tour offers an intimate experience with audio headsets providing easy access to the history and fun facts.
Key sights include the iconic Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, along with the Hippodrome.
While interior visits to museums aren’t included, the tour covers significant landmarks and hidden gems, with guides praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling.
Segways are easy to handle after practice, providing a fun and memorable way to learn about Istanbul’s rich heritage.
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Istanbul: Old City Morning Walking Tour
Enjoy the captivating history and iconic landmarks of Istanbul’s Old City on this comprehensive morning walking tour.
Priced at Kč 1,506 per person, this 4-hour tour provides a seamless experience, with hotel pickup and skip-the-line access to key attractions like the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia.
Led by an English-speaking guide, you’ll uncover the rich cultural heritage of these historic sites, with ample photo opportunities along the way.
The tour also includes an optional visit to the Sultanahmet District and the Grand Bazaar, allowing you to further explore Istanbul’s vibrant atmosphere.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this walking tour offers a hassle-free and immersive way to discover the Old City’s wonders.
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Istanbul Old City And Bosphorus Tour
This comprehensive full-day tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through Istanbul’s historic peninsula, showcasing the city’s iconic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods.
Travelers will visit over a dozen sites, including the stunning Hagia Sophia, the magnificent Blue Mosque, and the bustling Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar. Participants will also enjoy a relaxing Bosphorus cruise and a traditional Turkish lunch.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tour offers a family-friendly experience with transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
While some delays and cleanliness issues have been reported, the tour receives overwhelmingly positive reviews, with travelers praising the friendly guides and the opportunity to explore Istanbul’s rich history and culture.
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Istanbul: Private Half Day Old City Shore Excursion Tour
For travelers seeking a more intimate and focused exploration of Istanbul’s historic Old City, the Istanbul: Private Half Day Old City Shore Excursion Tour offers a compelling option.
Priced from €80 per person, this private tour departs from Galataport Istanbul and takes visitors to key landmarks like the Blue Mosque and the iconic Hagia Sophia, with the option to also explore the bustling Grand Bazaar.
Led by a licensed English-speaking guide, the tour experience includes skip-the-line access and a mix of guided tours and free time.
With a duration of one day and a flexible cancellation policy, this shore excursion provides a tailored and efficient way to experience Istanbul’s most famous sights.
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Segway Istanbul Old City Tour – Evening
As the sun dips below the horizon, travelers can embark on a captivating Segway adventure through Istanbul’s historic Old City with the Segway Istanbul Old City Tour – Evening.
This small-group tour explores key attractions like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia Museum, and Hippodrome, with an experienced guide providing engaging commentary. Rated 5.0 from 38 reviews, the tour is 100% recommended by travelers and features a Badge of Excellence.
Participants can enjoy a comfortable ride with audio headsets, rain gear, and helmets provided. The tour meets at Sultanahmet Tram Station and lasts approximately 2 hours, with a maximum of 8 travelers per group.
Priced from $53.86 per person, it’s an excellent way to discover Istanbul’s iconic sights at night.
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Istanbul :Private Full Day Old City Shore Excursion Tour
Embarking on a comprehensive exploration of Istanbul’s historic Old City, the Private Full Day Old City Shore Excursion Tour offers travelers an immersive experience showcasing the city’s renowned landmarks and cultural heritage.
Priced at $73.98 per person, the 6-hour tour departs from Galataport İstanbul and visits key attractions like Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the iconic Grand Bazaar.
Led by a licensed English-speaking guide, the tour provides entry tickets and transportation, ensuring a seamless and informative experience.
With flexible cancellation policies and the option to reserve now and pay later, this shore excursion presents an enticing opportunity to discover Istanbul’s captivating history and vibrant culture.
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A Magical Evening in Istanbul: Private City Tour
The allure of Istanbul’s enchanting nightlife beckons visitors to embark on a captivating private city tour. “A Magical Evening in Istanbul: Private City Tour” offers a unique opportunity to take in the city’s vibrant culture and hidden gems.
Priced from $56.01 per person, this 93% recommended tour boasts a 4.5/5 rating and a Badge of Excellence. Guests enjoy a private experience with a knowledgeable local guide, complimentary non-alcoholic drink, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
The tour explores iconic landmarks, charming neighborhoods, and culminates at the Church of Saint Anthony of Padua. While not wheelchair accessible, the experience is stroller-friendly and welcomes service animals.
Flexible booking and cancellation policies make this tour an appealing choice for travelers seeking an unforgettable evening in Istanbul.
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Istanbul City Tour & Blue Mosque,Hagia Sophia,Topkapi Palace
Travelers exploring Istanbul’s iconic landmarks can enjoy a comprehensive city tour showcasing the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace.
These 3-hour small group tours allow visitors to skip the lines and explore these remarkable sites with a knowledgeable guide.
At the Blue Mosque, they’ll admire the stunning 17th-century architecture and learn about its religious significance.
Next, they’ll visit the Hagia Sophia, a former Byzantine church turned mosque, and marvel at its grand interior.
The tour concludes at the Topkapi Palace, where guests can discover the opulent former residence of Ottoman sultans.
With skip-the-line access and insightful commentary, these tours provide an efficient and enriching way to discover Istanbul’s top attractions.
Read our full review: Istanbul City Tour & Blue Mosque,Hagia Sophia,Topkapi Palace Review
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Istanbul: Best of The City Full-Day Private Tour
This comprehensive full-day private tour offers travelers an immersive exploration of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks and cultural experiences.
The tour covers major historical sites like the Hippodrome, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the Basilica Cistern, as well as the vibrant Grand Bazaar.
Travelers can enjoy a unique experience with Turkish handicrafts and traditional arts, while also savoring a local lunch.
The tour features a knowledgeable private guide, fast-track tickets, and efficient navigation through crowds.
Although some pressure may be felt during visits to pottery shops, overall, the tour receives highly positive reviews for its informative and engaging program.
The flexibility to customize the tour based on traveler preferences is an additional benefit.
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Istanbul: Highlights Tour of Istanbul Old City
Istanbul’s Highlights Tour of Istanbul Old City immerses visitors in the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
The 8-hour tour costs from Kč 1,882 per person and includes hotel pickup, an English-speaking guide, lunch, and entry fees to top attractions like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is available, and there’s no upfront payment required to reserve your spot.
While the overall rating is 3/5 based on one review, highlights include the guide’s expertise and experiencing iconic sites like the Blue Mosque.
However, some customers noted issues with transportation organization and delays.
Visitors should be mindful of the Topkapi Palace’s Tuesday closure and dress code restrictions.
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Istanbul Combo: Classic City Tour and Bosphorus Cruise
Offering an immersive experience, the Istanbul Combo: Classic City Tour and Bosphorus Cruise provides visitors with a comprehensive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks and scenic waterways.
This full-day private tour immerses travelers in the history and culture of Istanbul’s Old City, including visits to the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the bustling Grand Bazaar.
Guests can then opt for a Bosphorus sightseeing cruise to admire the city’s coastline and bridges from the water.
With a 5.0 rating and 100% traveler recommendation, this tour delivers personalized attention and flexibility, making it an ideal choice for first-time visitors seeking an in-depth Istanbul experience.
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Istanbul: Full-Day Private City Highlights Walking Tour
Priced competitively at $76.09 per person, the Istanbul: Full-Day Private City Highlights Walking Tour provides visitors an immersive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks.
Over 7 hours, the tour takes guests to the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, and Basilica Cistern.
Visitors will appreciate the cultural and historical significance of these sites, from the 6th-century Hagia Sophia to the 15th-century Topkapi Palace.
The guided walking tour offers an intimate, slow-paced experience, allowing guests to fully enjoy Istanbul’s rich heritage.
With a 5/5 rating and positive reviews highlighting tailored itineraries and knowledgeable guides, this tour is an excellent way to discover the city’s top highlights.
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Half Day Morning Istanbul Old City Tour
Exploring Istanbul’s historic heart, the Half Day Morning Istanbul Old City Tour whisks visitors through four of the city’s renowned landmarks in a single, time-efficient outing.
Hitting the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, and Grand Bazaar, this tour provides skip-the-line access and expert guiding to maximize time.
While the pace may not suit everyone, the tour earns high marks for its ability to show off three UNESCO-listed sites in one morning.
Travelers can enjoy free time at the Grand Bazaar, but should note the guiding there may be less comprehensive than at the other stops.
With comfortable transportation, museum tickets, and a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers an excellent value for those seeking an introduction to Istanbul’s iconic sights.
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Recap
Istanbul offers a diverse range of city tours to cater to different interests and budgets. From iconic landmark tours to secret street explorations, visitors can enjoy the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. Whether you prefer a private guided experience or a small-group adventure, Istanbul’s tours provide an engaging and insightful way to discover the best of this captivating destination.