Dive into Istanbul‘s rich history on a private full-day tour that combines the best of Byzantine and Ottoman heritage. This tour is a seamless blend of our Istanbul Heritage Tour (Half Day Morning) and Ottoman Relics Tour (Half Day Afternoon), providing a complete journey through the city’s most iconic landmarks. As The Other Tour, we offer exclusive private tours designed for your comfort and convenience, from hotel pick-up to drop-off.
Table of Contents
Overview
Your private tour begins with a pick-up from your hotel. If your hotel is located in Sultanahmet, the guide will meet you at your hotel, and the tour will start on foot. For hotels outside Sultanahmet, an air-conditioned private vehicle will be provided.
This immersive journey covers Istanbul’s most remarkable landmarks, including Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Grand Bazaar, Topkapi Palace, and Hagia Irene. Midway, enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, giving you the perfect opportunity to savor authentic Turkish cuisine.
Tour Program
- HAGIA SOPHIA: Begin your tour at the world-renowned Hagia Sophia, a magnificent structure that has served as a church, mosque, and museum over the centuries. Its breathtaking mosaics and grand dome narrate Istanbul’s layered history.
- BLUE MOSQUE: Famous for its stunning blue Iznik tiles and impressive architecture, the Blue Mosque is an iconic Ottoman masterpiece. (Closed on Fridays during prayer times.)
- HIPPODROME: Step back in time at the Hippodrome, the heart of social and sporting life in Byzantine Constantinople. Explore its monuments, including the Serpentine Column, Egyptian Obelisk, and the German Fountain.
- GRAND COVERED BAZAAR: Wander through the vibrant maze of the Grand Bazaar, home to more than 4,000 shops offering handmade carpets, ceramics, jewelry, and traditional Turkish crafts. (Closed on Sundays, replaced with Arasta Bazaar.)
- LUNCH: Enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, savoring authentic Turkish dishes in a relaxed setting before continuing your exploration.
- TOPKAPI PALACE: Discover the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire at Topkapi Palace, the residence of Ottoman sultans. Visit the Chamber of Sacred Relics and marvel at the exquisite collections of jewels, artifacts, and imperial costumes. (Harem section is optional and not included in the standard tour. Closed on Tuesdays.)
- HAGIA IRENE: End your tour at the Hagia Irene Church, one of the oldest Byzantine structures in Istanbul. Its historical significance and beautiful architecture make it a must-see. (Closed on Tuesdays.)
Included
- Private hotel pick-up and drop-off (walking or by vehicle, depending on location)
- Professional licensed tour guide
- Entrance fees to all scheduled sites
- Lunch at a local restaurant
- Service charges and local taxes
Excluded
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
- Beverages during lunch
- Harem section entrance fee (optional)
Important Notes
- Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque may have limited access during prayer times.
- Topkapi Palace and Hagia Irene are closed on Tuesdays.
- Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays and replaced with Arasta Bazaar.
Pick-Up Details
- For Sultanahmet hotels, the guide will meet you at your hotel, and the tour will start on foot.
- For hotels outside Sultanahmet, private transportation will be provided for pick-up and drop-off.
Rates and Reservations
This full-day private tour is the perfect combination of our Istanbul Heritage Tour (Half Day Morning) and Ottoman Relics Tour (Half Day Afternoon), offering you the best of both experiences. As The Other Tour, we specialize in creating personalized tours with flexible schedules and expert guidance to ensure a seamless and unforgettable journey.
Contact us today for pricing and availability, and let us craft an exceptional Istanbul adventure just for you!
