cool shore excursions®
Top activities
Top landmarks
Trip ideas
Nearby places
  • Tours by category
  • Tours by accessibility
  • Tours by feature
  • Tours by time
  • Tours by the numbers
  • Top attractions
  • Istanbul travel guides
  • Istanbul travel calendar
  • Tours in nearby places
  • Explore Turkey tours
Language $Currency
Login / Sign up
Bookings
Bookings
Wallet
$0.00
Wishlists
Wishlists
Cool Rewards Rewards
Gift cards
Profile
Help Center
Language
Log out
Start your search
Change your search
Place or activity
Select Dates
You booked this experience
You're departing on
Google Calendar
Apple Calendar
Microsoft Outlook
Make your trip unforgettable

ISTANBUL BEST Full-Day PRIVATE Guided Tour :TOP Historic Sites

425 Reviews 4.95 out of 5 stars Based on 425 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and TripAdvisor |
Recommended by 99% of reviewers
99% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
|
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards. Istanbul, Turkey
Book online or call us

from $90 per person

Lowest Price Guarantee
Hagia sophia
Blue mosque
Old city Constantinople
Blue mosque
Imperial mosque
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 17 (0) days in advance.
5 to 6 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
and 1 more
Spanish
Instant confirmation

Overview

This full Day Private guided tour covers the major Sightseeings of Istanbul without waiting in ticket lines and with this day tour You will visit the top sites of İstanbul in one day such as ; Blue mosque-Hagia Sophia-Topkapi palace -Basilica cistern-Hippodrome and Grand bazaar .historical places can be visited easily with short distances by walking

BRIEFLY
1- BLUE MOSQUE : 400 year old mosque built by the Ottoman Empire in the 17th century AD

2- HAGIA SOPHIA : 1500 hundred year old church from the 6th century-Roman time right now partly mosque and museum

3- TOPKAPI PALACE : 500 year old imperial palace of Ottoman Empire .( closed on Tuesdays )

4 Basilica cistern : underground water tank from the 6th century AD by the Roman Empire to provide the water to the city

4 HIPODROM the area where chariot races were held

5 -Grand bazaar: 500 year old bazaar from the ottoman time together with 3500 shops inside (closed on Sundays )

What's Included

  • The tour will end once the itinerary has been completed
  • Cultural Heritage; Handicrafts & Art presentations
  • Roman and Ottoman Historical Major Attractions
  • Lunch
  • Museum entrance fees/you can use credit card to buy museum tickets while on tour from ticket offices
  • Transportation İs not included because the Tour is by walking
See 4 moreSee 6 more

Meeting Location

Meeting point

Sultan Ahmet
Ayasofya Meydanı No:1, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye

Show on Google Maps

Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
Read more

Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

Blue Mosque

1- BLUE MOSQUE :Blue mosque is a 400 hundred year old imperial mosque and it was built by the Ottoman Empire in the 17.th century AD. • It is famous for its twenty thousands blue ceramic tiles. Inside, you are going to see the beautiful blue tiles of the mosque together stained glass windows .. • There is a dress code for visiting the mosque; Women need headscarf and long dresses/ pants to cover the knee and men also need long pants to cover their kneesIt is free to get in
Read more

30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque

2- HAGIA SOPHIA : today it is partly under restorationHagia Sophia is one of the oldest cathedrals of Constantinople/ Istanbul and it was built by the Eastern Roman Empire in the 6th century AD. And still standing for 1500 years with its huge dome. • It was used as a cathedral for about a thousand years during the Roman period and then it was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman Empire took over the city in 1453 • Today it is partly used as a mosque and museum together. Inside, you will see icons and motifs from the Roman period and additions from the Ottoman period•There is a dress code to enter. Women need headscarf and long dresses that cover the knee and men also need pants to cover their knees
Read more

40 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Topkapi Palace Museum

3- TOPKAPI PALACE :Topkapi palace is an imperial palace with a large complex that hosted the 600-year-old Ottoman empire for about 400 years. It is was built by the ottoman sultan Mehmet the II. In the 15th century AD. after capturing Constantinople. •It was used as the residence of ottoman sultans and the imperial palace of the empire .•in many rooms you will see objects from the Ottoman periodAttention; • (TOPKAPI PALACE IS CLOSED on Tuesdays ) •(Tour guides are not allowed to accompany you in “some “private large exhibition rooms of the palace because of the large group of guided tours )
Read more

2 hours Admission Ticket Free

Basilica Cistern

4- BASILICA CISTERNIt was built as underground water tank / reservoir in the 6th century AD by the Roman Empire to provide the water to the city . Today it is used as a museum since it is not an active tank anymore. When you go down approximately 10 meters underground, you will feel in a mysterious underground city together with so many pillars and colorful lights .It has served as a filming location for some movies such as From Russia with Love (1963) – James Bond and Inferno (2016) – Tom Hanks, based on Dan Brown’s novel.
Read more

30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Hippodrome

6- HIPPODROME•The square we call the hippodrome today was built by Emperor Constantine the Great in the 4th century AD after he chose the city as the new capital of the Roman Empire•The hippodrome was basically used for chariot races and it was the most popular activity in the city . •Today in the hippodrome you will see the Egyptian obelisk from Egypt, the serpent column from Greece, the German fountain from Germany and the walled obelisk from the city.
Read more

20 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Grand Bazaar

5- GRAND BAZAARGrand bazaar is a 500 year old historical market&bazaar from the ottoman time and it was built in 1461 . Inside there are 3.500. Shops for , ceramic , spice , sweets , delight , jewelry and hand made rugs . As part of the market you will witness the demonstration of cultural heritage embroidery handicraft and clay pot demonstrations Grand bazaar is CLOSED ON SUNDAYS
Read more

1 hour Admission Ticket Free

Show 5 more stops

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Frequently Asked Questions (8)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the ISTANBUL BEST Full-Day PRIVATE Guided Tour :TOP Historic Sites?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (+03). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-304094P3

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.95
425 reviews

Average 4.95 out of 5 stars based on 424 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
411
4 stars
9
3 stars
1
2 stars
3
1 star
0
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 17 (0) days in advance.
Istanbul Tours
Attractions
Guides
Calendar
View more

Similar Tours & Activities

Istanbul Old City Highlights: Private Walking Tour
5.0 (103)

Istanbul Old City Highlights: Private Walking Tour

This is a private walking tour. No vehicle or hotel transfer is included. Explore Istanbul’s Old City with a private licensed guide dedicated to your...

4 to 6 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (103)
from
$25
Istanbul & Cappadocia Trip Including ATV Bike Ride, Balloon Ride

Istanbul & Cappadocia Trip Including ATV Bike Ride, Balloon Ride

See Turkey's historical, cultural and natural highlights at Ephesus and Cappadocia with this tour. Horseback Ride at the valleys of Cappadocia, 2 nights accommodation at...

3 days Hotel pickup offered
from
$945
Private Guided Tour in Istanbul
5.0 (19)

Private Guided Tour in Istanbul

You will explore the beauty of Istanbul by visiting the most important highlights of Istanbul with a licenced professional tourist guide. Your guide will explain...

5 to 8 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (19)
from
$49
Istanbul: 2 Continents of Bosphorus ( Boat & Lunch )
4.9 (318)

Istanbul: 2 Continents of Bosphorus ( Boat & Lunch )

Get ready for an exhilarating full-day adventure that truly captures Istanbul's magic! Our unique tour offers an unforgettable journey across two continents in a single...

7 to 9 hours Free Cancellation
4.9 (318)
from
$52
Istanbul Old City Highlights: Private Walking Tour

This is a private walking tour. No vehicle or hotel transfer is included. Explore Istanbul’s Old City with a private licensed guide dedicated to your …More

5.0 (103)

Istanbul Old City Highlights: Private Walking Tour

5.0 (103)

This is a private walking tour. No vehicle or hotel transfer is included. Explore Istanbul’s Old City with a private licensed guide dedicated to your...

4 to 6 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (103)
from
$25
Istanbul & Cappadocia Trip Including ATV Bike Ride, Balloon Ride

See Turkey's historical, cultural and natural highlights at Ephesus and Cappadocia with this tour. Horseback Ride at the valleys of Cappadocia, 2 nights accommodation at …More

Istanbul & Cappadocia Trip Including ATV Bike Ride, Balloon Ride

See Turkey's historical, cultural and natural highlights at Ephesus and Cappadocia with this tour. Horseback Ride at the valleys of Cappadocia, 2 nights accommodation at...

3 days Hotel pickup offered
from
$945
Private Guided Tour in Istanbul

You will explore the beauty of Istanbul by visiting the most important highlights of Istanbul with a licenced professional tourist guide. Your guide will explain …More

5.0 (19)

Private Guided Tour in Istanbul

5.0 (19)

You will explore the beauty of Istanbul by visiting the most important highlights of Istanbul with a licenced professional tourist guide. Your guide will explain...

5 to 8 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (19)
from
$49
Istanbul: 2 Continents of Bosphorus ( Boat & Lunch )

Get ready for an exhilarating full-day adventure that truly captures Istanbul's magic! Our unique tour offers an unforgettable journey across two continents in a single …More

4.9 (318)

Istanbul: 2 Continents of Bosphorus ( Boat & Lunch )

4.9 (318)

Get ready for an exhilarating full-day adventure that truly captures Istanbul's magic! Our unique tour offers an unforgettable journey across two continents in a single...

7 to 9 hours Free Cancellation
4.9 (318)
from
$52

Travelers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought

Bosphorus Cruise Boat Tour in Istanbul
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.8 (1,045)

Bosphorus Cruise Boat Tour in Istanbul

Discover the beauty of Istanbul on a relaxing Bosphorus Cruise Tour and enjoy spectacular views from the water as you sail between Europe and Asia....

1 to 2 hours Free Cancellation
4.8 (1,045)
from
$7
Istanbul E-pass: Top Istanbul Attractions with Skip The Ticket Line
4.9 (1,420)

Istanbul E-pass: Top Istanbul Attractions with Skip The Ticket Line

Istanbul E-pass is a fully digital sightseeing pass that covers over 100 top Istanbul Attractions. Choose your E-pass 1,2,3,5 or 7 days and enjoy the...

1 to 7 days Free Cancellation
4.9 (1,420)
from
$143
Istanbul Mega Lufer Dinner Cruise Bosphorus and Show Pvt Table
4.7 (2,609)

Istanbul Mega Lufer Dinner Cruise Bosphorus and Show Pvt Table

With the magical view of the Bosphorus, the historical silhouette of Istanbul, the sea and the unique beauty of the night, we are at your...

3 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
4.7 (2,609)
from
$32
Short Bosphorus Cruise with Pickup and Audio Guide
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.8 (498)

Short Bosphorus Cruise with Pickup and Audio Guide

This is not just a boat ride — it’s the easiest and most scenic way to explore the heart of Istanbul in just two hours....

2 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
4.8 (498)
from
$23
Bosphorus Cruise Boat Tour in Istanbul

Discover the beauty of Istanbul on a relaxing Bosphorus Cruise Tour and enjoy spectacular views from the water as you sail between Europe and Asia. …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.8 (1,045)

Bosphorus Cruise Boat Tour in Istanbul

4.8 (1,045)

Discover the beauty of Istanbul on a relaxing Bosphorus Cruise Tour and enjoy spectacular views from the water as you sail between Europe and Asia....

1 to 2 hours Free Cancellation
4.8 (1,045)
from
$7
Istanbul E-pass: Top Istanbul Attractions with Skip The Ticket Line

Istanbul E-pass is a fully digital sightseeing pass that covers over 100 top Istanbul Attractions. Choose your E-pass 1,2,3,5 or 7 days and enjoy the …More

4.9 (1,420)

Istanbul E-pass: Top Istanbul Attractions with Skip The Ticket Line

4.9 (1,420)

Istanbul E-pass is a fully digital sightseeing pass that covers over 100 top Istanbul Attractions. Choose your E-pass 1,2,3,5 or 7 days and enjoy the...

1 to 7 days Free Cancellation
4.9 (1,420)
from
$143
Istanbul Mega Lufer Dinner Cruise Bosphorus and Show Pvt Table

With the magical view of the Bosphorus, the historical silhouette of Istanbul, the sea and the unique beauty of the night, we are at your …More

4.7 (2,609)

Istanbul Mega Lufer Dinner Cruise Bosphorus and Show Pvt Table

4.7 (2,609)

With the magical view of the Bosphorus, the historical silhouette of Istanbul, the sea and the unique beauty of the night, we are at your...

3 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
4.7 (2,609)
from
$32
Short Bosphorus Cruise with Pickup and Audio Guide

This is not just a boat ride — it’s the easiest and most scenic way to explore the heart of Istanbul in just two hours. …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.8 (498)

Short Bosphorus Cruise with Pickup and Audio Guide

4.8 (498)

This is not just a boat ride — it’s the easiest and most scenic way to explore the heart of Istanbul in just two hours....

2 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
4.8 (498)
from
$23

Frequently Asked Questions (8)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Shore Excursions customers.

Filter by:

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the ISTANBUL BEST Full-Day PRIVATE Guided Tour :TOP Historic Sites?
A:
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (+03).
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • The tour will end once the itinerary has been completed.
  • Cultural Heritage; Handicrafts & Art presentations.
  • Roman and Ottoman Historical Major Attractions.
  • Personal Licensed Private Guide.
The following is NOT included:
  • Lunch.
  • Museum entrance fees/you can use credit card to buy museum tickets while on tour from ticket offices.
  • Transportation İs not included because the Tour is by walking.
  • Topkapi palace.
  • Hagia Sophia.
  • Basilica cistern.
Apr 2025
Q: What is the weather cancellation policy?
A:

This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

The minimum age to participate is 1..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible tour?
A:

Accessibility information for the ISTANBUL BEST Full-Day PRIVATE Guided Tour :TOP Historic Sites is as follows:

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for ISTANBUL BEST Full-Day PRIVATE Guided Tour :TOP Historic Sites will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Shore Excursions. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024
Q: How long does a refund take to reach my card, and can I get it faster?
A:

Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.

Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.

If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.

Oct 2026

What's Included

Activity name

  • The tour will end once the itinerary has been completed
  • Cultural Heritage; Handicrafts & Art presentations
  • Roman and Ottoman Historical Major Attractions
  • Personal Licensed Private Guide
  • Lunch
  • Museum entrance fees/you can use credit card to buy museum tickets while on tour from ticket offices
  • Transportation İs not included because the Tour is by walking
  • Topkapi palace
  • Hagia Sophia
  • Basilica cistern

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Report Product Issue

Activity name