Old City Tour
Book Now & Pay Later.
Tour details
Old City Tour – Istanbul An ideal route to explore the heart of Istanbul and its history spanning centuries.1. Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque)** One of the most impressive examples of Ottoman architecture, with its magnificent domes, tiles, and six minarets. You can see both the historical and architectural details with a short walk in the courtyard and interior. 2. Hagia Sophia A symbol of the city with its journey from Byzantine to Ottoman, and back to a mosque from a museum. The massive dome, mosaics, and the grandeur of the interior are breathtaking. 3. Hippodrome Square** An arena for sports and events during the Roman and Byzantine periods. Today known as Sultanahmet Square; you can see monuments such as the - Obelisk of Theodosius - Serpent Column - Woven Column. 4. Grand Bazaar & Egyptian Bazaar** - **Grand Bazaar:** One of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, where you can find carpets, jewelry, leather products, handicrafts, and more. - **Egyptian Bazaar:** A colorful and fragrant market filled with spices, Turkish delight, nuts, and local delicacies. **5. Gülhane Park** This historical park, which is the outer garden of Topkapi Palace, allows you to walk among the trees, relax, and enjoy views of the Bosphorus. **6. Sirkeci & Nuruosmaniye Streets** - **Sirkeci:** Offers a nostalgic atmosphere with the old train station, historical buildings, restaurants, and walking routes close to the sea. - **Nuruosmaniye area:** The Nuruosmaniye Mosque and its surrounding streets stand out with elegant shops and historical texture; it is one of the graceful passages that open to the Grand Bazaar. If you want, I can also prepare a walking route for these points, suggested visiting duration, or recommendations for food/shopping.
What's included
Walking tour in historic streets
Visit to historic mosques and churches with a guide
Visit to caravanserais and inns from the Ottoman and Byzantine periods
Visit to the viewing terrace for a panoramic city view
Free time and shopping opportunity at the local market
Traditional coffee or tea break at a historic cafe
Entrance to a museum or archaeological site with guided narration
Visit to historic mosques and churches with a guide
Visit to caravanserais and inns from the Ottoman and Byzantine periods
Visit to the viewing terrace for a panoramic city view
Free time and shopping opportunity at the local market
Traditional coffee or tea break at a historic cafe
Entrance to a museum or archaeological site with guided narration
Not included
Flight tickets
International exit tax stamp
Comprehensive travel health insurance
Lunch and dinner
Personal expenses and shopping
International exit tax stamp
Comprehensive travel health insurance
Lunch and dinner
Personal expenses and shopping
Need to Know
The main square of the old town will be used as the meeting point, please be there at least 15 minutes before the tour starts: The main square of the old town has been chosen as the meeting point because it is a central location that can be easily found by everyone. Being there at least 15 minutes early allows the group to leave on time and creates extra time for possible delays, directions, or ticket arrangements. Additionally, your guide will give a brief introduction and program information before the tour begins.
The main square of the old town will be used as the meeting point, please be there at least 15 minutes before the tour starts.
The tour will last approximately 2.5–3 hours and will mostly be conducted on foot, so comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended: The duration of the tour has been planned for 2.5–3 hours considering the historical sites to be visited, alleyways, and photo breaks. Since the majority of the route will be covered on foot, wearing comfortable shoes that do not hurt your feet and clothing suitable for the season, rain, or sun will enhance your comfort. This way, you can explore joyfully without experiencing fatigue and discomfort until the end of the tour.
Entrance fees for major historical buildings requiring a ticket are not included in the tour fee; it is necessary to have some cash or a card for optional entries: There will be many structures for which the guide will provide exterior explanations, but some museums and monumental buildings may require additional entrance fees for those who wish to enter and explore in detail. Since the tour fee does not cover these optional entries, it is advisable to carry a bit of cash or a card based on your interests. This way, when you decide to see any place at the moment, you won’t have trouble with payment.
The tour language is Turkish, and the guide will provide detailed information about the history of the old town, its architecture, local traditions, and daily life: Throughout the tour, all presentations and information will be in Turkish, so you can follow the historical development of the region, significant events, and cultural background in detail. Your guide will not only introduce the buildings and monuments but will also share the architectural features of the old town, local life, traditions, daily habits, and interesting stories related to the city. This way, you will have the opportunity to experience every point you see within a deeper context.
Due to narrow streets and cobbled paths, the use of strollers and wheeled suitcases may be difficult; if possible, a lightweight backpack is recommended: The old town fabric is generally characterized by narrow, uneven, and cobbled paths; this can make it both difficult and exhausting to push a wheeled suitcase or stroller. To enhance your mobility and avoid difficulties with stairs and slopes, it is recommended to carry your belongings in a lightweight backpack. This way, you can easily follow the group and complete the tour in a more comfortable and safer manner.
What to Bring?
Comfortable walking shoes
Hat or sun protection cap
Water bottle or drinking water
Light raincoat or season-appropriate jacket
Camera or charged phone
Small backpack
Cash and ID card
Hat or sun protection cap
Water bottle or drinking water
Light raincoat or season-appropriate jacket
Camera or charged phone
Small backpack
Cash and ID card
Tour Program
OLD CITY
Old City Tour – Istanbul
Explore the heart of Istanbul and its rich history on an unforgettable journey!
Highlights:
• Blue Mosque – Marvel at its stunning architecture.
• Hagia Sophia – Discover the grandeur of this iconic landmark.
• Hippodrome – Step into the ancient sporting and social center.
• Grand Bazaar & Egyptian Bazaar – Experience vibrant local markets.
• Gülhane Park – Relax in this historic green oasis.
• Sirkeci & Nuriosmaniye Streets – Wander through lively historic streets.