Or Sultan Ahmed Mosque is a still-functioning place of workship featuring stained glass windows with intricate designs and hand-painted blue tiles.Οnce the centre of public life in Constantinople, the Hippodrome was the scene of ferocious chariot races. The Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column and the Column of Constantine are located here.The former Greek Orthodox Christian patriarchal cathedral dedicated to Holy Wisdom, later an Ottoman imperial mosque and now a museum.It was constructed beneath the palace and its purpose was water storage as well as water filtration for those buildings.An opulent complex of four courtyards, a harem, and a garden that served as the main residence and administrative headquarters of the Ottoman sultans.One of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with 61 covered streets and over 4,000 shops offering a large array of products.Called Christea Turris by the Genoese — is a medieval stone tower in the Galata/Karaköy quarter of the city.City's largest square, famed for its restaurants, shops, and hotels. It is also the location of the Republic Monument.A 19th century, baroque-style building is one of the most glamorous palaces in the world. It was the administrative center of the late Ottoman Empire.Known officially as the 15 July Martyrs Bridge, is one of the three bridges spanning the Bosphorus strait while connecting Europe and Asia.Historic district, popular with tourists and full of nice cafes and restaurants.
Turkey · City Tours
Private Istanbul Tour Full Day of Iconic Sights & Local Gems
The journey
- 01 Private full-day tour of Istanbul’s iconic sights
- 02 Explore the Historical Peninsula with a local driver
- 03 See landmarks including the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia
- 04 Visit the Hippodrome of Constantinople and Grand Bazaar
- 05 Admire Dolmabahçe Palace and views toward the Bosphorus
- 06 Flexible itinerary with hotel pickup and drop-off
- 07 Travel in private transport with WiFi on board
- 08 Learn local history and culture from an English-speaking driver
Discover Istanbul at your own pace on a private full-day tour that combines the city’s most iconic landmarks with its vibrant local character. Travel comfortably with a knowledgeable local driver as you explore the Historical Peninsula and admire celebrated sights such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, the Hippodrome, the Grand Bazaar, Galata Tower, and Dolmabahçe Palace.
Along the way, enjoy a flexible experience shaped around your interests while learning about the layers of Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman history that define the city. From grand palaces and monumental mosques to lively districts, markets, and Bosphorus views, this tour offers a convenient and memorable introduction to Istanbul.
Please note that your driver serves as an informal local guide and does not accompany guests inside attractions.
From grand palaces and monumental mosques to lively districts, markets, and Bosphorus views, this tour offers a convenient and memorable introduction to Istanbul.
From the itinerary
At a glance
What this trip includes
Day by day
The itinerary
The route
Where you'll travel
The fine print
Trip details
What's Included
- Hotel or custom pickup and drop-off
- Professional English-speaking local driver/informal guide
- Fuel and Tolls
- All taxes and handling charges
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- WiFi on board
- Water
What's Not Included
- Meals and beverages
- Tips and Gratuities
- Hagia Sophia
- Basilica Cistern
- Topkapi Palace
- Galata Tower
- Dolmabahçe Palace
- Licensed guides available to accompany you inside the attractions
Know before you go
- STROLLER OR PRAM ACCESSIBLE
- PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION NEARBY
- INFANT SEATS AVAILABLE
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Not suitable for pets
- Infants must not sit on laps
- For 1–3 people: A comfortable sedan will be assigned to your group.
- For 4–8 people: A spacious minivan will be assigned to your group.
- Throughout your ride, our drivers serve as informal local guides—sharing stories, history, and local tips at every stop. Please note that drivers are not permitted to enter museums or archaeological areas, but they’ll ensure you make the most of your visit with suggestions and background information before you explore on your own.
- Some stops on your itinerary may be closed on the date of travel due to public holidays, maintenance or special events. We recommend verifying opening hours on the attraction’s official website or contacting us before your tour. If a stop is unexpectedly closed, we will try to offer a suitable alternative.
- Please note that Airport pickups will apply to extra charges. If your pickup point is the Airport you have to contact us at least 24 hours before the operation date to declare the number of luggage and your flight details.
- Your Welcome Pickups driver will be waiting for you at the selected pickup location and time.
- Before your ride, you’ll receive your driver’s details — including their name, phone number, and car information — so you can easily recognize them.
- Your driver will arrive on time and be ready to assist you and any special requests before starting your journey.
- Please note that our sightseeing tours does not automatically include airport pickup or drop-off. If you wish to start or end your tour at the airport, simply select the option with airport pickup included when booking if available.
- Kindly share any special requirements, such as traveling with a service animal or needing extra assistance, when booking your ride. This ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for you.
Logistics
Meeting & route
Your 8 hours finish where they began, in Pickup service provided in Istanbul..
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