Viator · Private tour

Skip lines Private Old City Tour in Istanbul

4.9(9)Istanbul1 hour
TRIPADVISOR4.9(9)

Description

Discover the captivating history and dynamic culture of Istanbul with us. Our esteemed guests relish top-notch experiences at budget-friendly rates with our highly sought-after guides.

Tour Options

Private Old City Tour

Itinerary

Admission not included150 min

Discover the grandeur of the Topkapı Palace, the esteemed residence of the Ottoman sultans and the administrative center that also housed the Harem. Built by Mehmet the Conqueror in 1453, this magnificent palace was the home of subsequent sultans until the 19th century. Explore the palace complex, showcasing exhibition halls, a Treasury section, and luxurious pavilions. Admire the Fountain of Sultan Ahmet III, a majestic structure built in 1728, standing proudly outside the Imperial Gate. Please note that the palace is closed on Tuesdays, but you can enjoy the Turkish Islamic art museum in its place. Topkapı Palace museum fee 60 usd

Admission not included45 min

The Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque is an iconic cultural and historical landmark in Istanbul, Turkey. Originally constructed as a Greek Orthodox church in AD 360, it later became a Latin Catholic church and then a mosque after the fall of Constantinople. Its rich history and architectural significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and culture. The recent transformation of the site back into a mosque adds to its historical importance and makes it a truly unique and compelling place to explore. Ayasofya Museum fee 25 Euro

20 min

The Hippodrome of Constantinople stood as an impressive circus that functioned as the vibrant sporting and social heart of Constantinople, the glorious capital of the Byzantine Empire. Today, this historic site has transformed into a bustling square nestled in Istanbul, Turkey, famously recognized as Sultanahmet Square (Turkish: Sultanahmet Meydanı). The term "hippodrome" originates from the Greek words "hippos" meaning horse and "dromos" meaning path or way, reflecting its historical significance. This renowned site is also known as Atmeydanı ("Horse Square") in Turkish. Engaging in horse racing and chariot racing, the ancient world celebrated these activities, making hippodromes prominent fixtures in Greek cities during the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine eras.

30 min

The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, better known as the Blue Mosque, is a breathtaking example of Ottoman architecture in Istanbul, Turkey. Built between 1609 and 1617, this historical landmark continues to serve as a vibrant mosque while drawing in countless visitors from around the world. With its stunning central dome, intricate Iznik tiles, and six minarets, the mosque stands as a stunning symbol of Istanbul's rich history and cultural significance.

Admission not included30 min

The Basilica Cistern Museum stands as a remarkable testament to the grand history of Istanbul. Built by Eastern Roman Emperor Justinian I (527-565), this underground marvel, also known as the "Sunken Palace," boasts numerous marble columns rising from the water. With an astounding 80,000-ton water storage capacity, the Yerebatan Cistern is the largest covered cistern in the city, showcasing reclaimed supporting elements and covering an impressive 10,000 square meters. A visit to this colossal structure, with its 140-meter length and 70-meter width, promises to be an awe-inspiring journey through the historical wonders of Istanbul. Basalica cistern ticket fee 40 usd

120 min

Join our knowledgeable guide for a safe and informative shopping experience with a side of history.

60 min

Why not consider visiting a nearby establishment of your own choice for a truly satisfying dining experience? you can choose one of local restaurant and free time for lunch break.

Highlights

Walking tour
personalized private tour experience
Flexible tour programme and skip crowds as much as possible.
Coffee and/or Tea
In-person Guide Offers: English, Spanish, Japanese, Mandarin,French,

What's included

Included
Walking tour
personalized private tour experience
Flexible tour programme and skip crowds as much as possible.
Coffee and/or Tea
In-person Guide Offers: English, Spanish, Japanese, Mandarin,French,
Not included
Lunch
Gratuities
Transportations
museum fee Topkapı Palace 46 Euro Ayasofya 25 Euro Basalica cistern 30 Euro

Pickup Locations & Times

We ensure a seamless experience by personally reaching out to our guests on their mobile phones to arrange for pick-up the day before.

Traveller Ratings

4.9
9 reviews
5
8
4
1
3
0
2
0
1
0

Important Information

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Reviews(9)

F
F8795OAashleys
October 5, 2025
Great tour with Sait

I really enjoyed this tour. Siat was knowledgeable and went above and beyond. He even helped me find the location for the tour I was doing right afterwards, bringing me right to the meeting spot. He even helped carry my bags when I shopped at the various places. He always knew the best spots for the best photos.

1 people found this helpful
Operator response

Thanks for sharing your feelings with us. we hope to serve you and your beloved ones again. Best wishes and regards from Türkiye

S
shella c
July 4, 2025
Magnificent Private Tour!

What an amazing day it was! We had such a fantastic experience that it completely exceeded our expectations. 🙏 Honestly, we couldn’t have asked for anything better! We stumbled upon a real gem in Istanbul—a guide who took such great care of both my husband and me throughout our stay, from organising our airport pickup and making sure we got back to our hotel safely. Our tour was a thrilling 9-hour adventure that allowed us to explore the exciting mix of the new and old sides of Istanbul. We visited beautiful mosques, savored some delicious food, and learned all about how those gorgeous tiles and stunning carpets are made. It was truly unforgettable! We were lucky enough to have the amazing Serkan all to ourselves. His knowledge made our day so much more special! , he took the role of being our private photographer to capture all our favorite moments! 😁 Serkan really treated us like family, sharing his time generously and giving us tons of great recommendations. Above all, he made sure we felt safe and well taken care of for our next activity. It was such an incredible experience, and we’ll always be thankful for it!

1 people found this helpful
Operator response

Thanks for sharing your feelings with us. We hope to serve you again. Best wishes and regards from istanbul.

9
963kaner
June 2, 2025
Hassan was our guide. He took time to explain the site's very well. His communication was great. We did the tour with our pace.

Hassan was our guide. He took time to explain the site's very well. His communication was great. We did the tour with our pace.

2 people found this helpful
Operator response

Thanks for sharing your feelings with us. Hope to serve you again. Best wishes and regards from İstanbul.

Z
Zoe G
March 23, 2025
Safe, knowledgeable, and engaging guide—made exploring Istanbul a fantastic experience!

Serkan was an amazing guide! As a solo female traveler, I felt completely safe exploring Istanbul with him. He took me to all the main sites, shared fascinating insights, and ensured my curiosity and taste buds were well satisfied. Highly recommended!

2 people found this helpful
Operator response

Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us. We like to welcome you again. Best wishes and regards from Türkiye.

W
williamlA3166CL
March 21, 2025
Great to see the old city with a wonderfully knowledgeable guide!

Serkan is a great guide - saw many of Istanbuls wonders, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, Grand Bazaar, Blue Mosque and others. He navigated the streets and told much of the history - not just of the destinations but also key points in between. He is very welcoming to questions and changes on the go. I have always wanted to see Istanbul and serkan made it a perfect day. BRING COMFORTABLE SHOES.

2 people found this helpful
Operator response

Thanks for nice comments. We hope to serve you again soon. Best wishes and regards from istanbul.

F
florenzo70
January 26, 2025
Unforgettable day in Istanbul

Guide booked by our hotel what a nice surprise we had a great day our mustafa guide was great a passionate about history He made us discover unusual places in addition to our visit I recommend this person who knew how to transport us just a day out of time 😉🥰

2 people found this helpful
Operator response

Merci d'avoir exprimé vos pensées. Nous apprécions vraiment vos commentaires et nous sommes impatients de pouvoir vous servir à nouveau. Nous vous adressons nos plus chaleureux vœux et salutations de Turquie !

D
delw330
November 28, 2024
1Day tour in Istanbul

It's a great experience to have a tour with serkan,professional guide and introduced a lot good stuff to buy. Istanbul is a great city to visit ,long history and beautiful views.

2 people found this helpful
Operator response

Thanks for sharing your feelings with us. Looking forwad to seeing you again. Best wishes and regards from istanbul.

C
CarmelitaFG
November 4, 2024
A very informative old city tour

Our guide Serkan was knowledgeable and kind. He knows how to go around people so that we can have our own space and time to see an important highlight in an attraction. The pace was fast but not rushed. Highly recommend him.

2 people found this helpful
Operator response

We genuinely appreciate you opening up to us. We look forward to welcoming you back in the near future. Wishing you all the best from Istanbul.

J
J G
October 16, 2024
Ayshe was very nice, competent and friendly tour guide....

Versatile, not boring super interesting..... Where few tourists were mega great location... Even where locals buy and soups go

1 people found this helpful
Operator response

Vielen Dank, dass Sie sich während Ihres Besuchs geöffnet und Ihre Gedanken mit uns geteilt haben. Ich sende herzliche Wünsche und Grüße aus Istanbul.

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