Istanbul Old City Top Sights Private Walking Tour, Tickets

Istanbul’s Old City is a treasure trove of history and culture, and a private walking tour is the ideal way to explore its top sights. With a licensed guide leading the way, visitors can skip the lines and enjoy the rich past of Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar. The tour’s inclusive nature and personalized service make it an appealing option for those seeking an engaging and efficient way to discover the heart of this captivating city. What secrets and stories might these iconic landmarks hold?

Key Points

• This private walking tour showcases the historic landmarks of Istanbul’s Old City, including the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Blue Mosque.
• Prices start at $151.03 per person, with varying attractions and durations ranging from 2 to 6 hours.
• The tour includes fast-track tickets to bypass lines at Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, as well as free entry to the Grand Bazaar.
• The tour is led by a 5-star licensed guide fluent in the chosen language, ensuring a personalized and informative experience.
• The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Tour Overview

This private walking tour offers visitors an immersive exploration of Istanbul’s historic Old City.

It includes a varying number of attractions depending on the selected option, with prices starting at $151.03 per person.

Group sizes are limited to 1-25 guests, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

The tour is led by a 5-star licensed guide fluent in the chosen language and includes free entry to the Grand Bazaar.

Depending on the option, it may also include fast-track tickets to Hagia Sophia Mosque and Topkapi Palace Museum, as well as entry to the Blue Mosque.

Included Attractions

The tour includes free entry to the iconic Grand Bazaar, allowing visitors to explore the vibrant labyrinth of shops and stalls.

Plus, the tour provides fast-track tickets to the Hagia Sophia Mosque, enabling guests to skip the ticket office lines and enjoy the architectural marvel.

Fast-track tickets to the Topkapi Palace Museum are also included, granting access to the former Ottoman imperial residence and its stunning collection of historical artifacts.

In the 3-, 4-, and 6-hour options, visitors can also enjoy free entry to the iconic Blue Mosque, a stunning example of classical Ottoman architecture.

Meeting Point and Pickup

The meeting point for the Istanbul Old City Walking Tour is at the Hagia Sophia History Museum, located at Binbirdirek, At Meydanı Cd No:10, 34122 Fatih, Istanbul.

Participants can either head directly to the meeting point or request pickup from their hotel or accommodation in the Old City or surrounding areas.

The tour ends back at the original meeting point. This option provides flexibility for travelers, allowing them to choose the most convenient starting location.

The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and is near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers.

Group size is limited to 1-25 guests.

Accessibility and Participation

The tour is wheelchair accessible and stroller accessible, making it suitable for most travelers.

It’s located near public transportation, so it’s easy to reach. Infants must sit on laps during the tour.

The group size is limited to 1-25 guests, ensuring a personalized experience. Participants should wear comfortable shoes and appropriate clothing for the walking tour.

Security checks and mosque etiquette requirements apply to all visitors.

While the fast track tickets allow skipping ticket office lines, visitors must still go through security and entrance lines.

Additional tickets for the Imperial Harem can be purchased on-site.

Important Visitor Information

Visitors receive confirmation upon booking the Istanbul Old City Walking Tour.

Security checks and mosque etiquette are required for all visitors. The Blue Mosque closes 5 times daily for prayers, and fast track tickets allow skipping ticket office lines, but not security and entrance lines.

Comfortable shoes and appropriate clothing are recommended for the walking tour. Additional tickets for the Imperial Harem can be purchased on-site.

Important information for visitors:

• Security checks and mosque etiquette required
• Blue Mosque closes 5 times daily for prayers
• Fast track tickets skip ticket lines, not security

Tour Duration and Pricing

The Istanbul Old City Walking Tour offers multiple duration options, with prices starting at $151.03 per person.

The tour is available in 2-hour, 3-hour, 4-hour, and 6-hour versions, with the price varying based on group size.

The 2-hour tour includes fast track tickets to Hagia Sophia Mosque and Topkapi Palace Museum, while the longer options add access to the Blue Mosque and more attractions.

All tours feature a 5-star licensed guide fluent in the chosen language, free entry to the Grand Bazaar, and hotel/accommodation pickup.

Regardless of duration, the tour ends back at the Hagia Sophia meeting point, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Confirmation and Cancellation

Confirmation of the booking is received immediately after completing the reservation.

This tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience, providing flexibility for travelers.

The tour is wheelchair accessible and stroller accessible, making it suitable for a wide range of participants.

Plus, the meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, allowing easy access for visitors.

• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience
• Wheelchair and stroller accessible
• Meeting point near public transportation

Additional Tickets and Experiences

One can purchase additional tickets for the Imperial Harem on-site, providing the opportunity to explore this fascinating part of the Topkapi Palace Museum.

The Imperial Harem was the private living quarters of the Ottoman sultan’s family and concubines. Visitors can wander through the beautifully decorated rooms and courtyards, gaining insights into the lavish lifestyle and power dynamics of the Ottoman court.

These optional tickets can be bought directly at the palace entrance, allowing guests to customize their tour and spend more time exploring this unique historical site.

The additional experience provides a deeper understanding of the Topkapi Palace and the lives of the Ottoman royalty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Food and Drinks Included in the Tour Price?

No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price. The tour overview only mentions inclusions like a 5-star guide, free entry to certain attractions, and hotel pickup, but does not list any meals or refreshments.

Can We Take Photos and Videos During the Tour?

Guests are generally allowed to take photos and videos during the tour, but they should be respectful and avoid disrupting the experience or blocking the view of others. Some sites may have restrictions, so guests should follow the guide’s instructions.

How Much Time Should We Allocate for Each Attraction?

The time allocation for each attraction varies based on the tour option selected. Generally, visitors should plan 1-2 hours per major site to fully experience it. Proper pacing allows enough time to explore without feeling rushed.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for Children?

The tour is accessible for all ages. Infants must sit on laps, but there are no other age restrictions. Children are welcome to participate in the tour.

Can We Customize the Tour to Focus on Specific Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to focus on specific interests. The private nature of the tour allows for flexibility to tailor the itinerary based on your’ preferences and interests.

The Sum Up

This private walking tour of Istanbul’s Old City offers a comprehensive exploration of its top historic landmarks. With fast-track tickets and personalized service from a licensed guide, visitors can efficiently experience iconic sites like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace. The tour’s accessibility, free cancellation, and reasonable pricing make it a practical option for those seeking an immersive cultural experience in the heart of Istanbul.