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Historic Istanbul Walking Experience

3 Reviews 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 3 reviews collected by City Boat Tours and TripAdvisor |
Recommended by 100% of reviewers
100% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
| Istanbul, Turkey
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from $250 per group

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"Standing before centuries of history — a family moment framed by the golden mosaics of Hagia Sophia, where emperors once walked and time stands still."
Inside a family-run workshop in İznik, where centuries-old techniques meet skilled hands. Each tile is crafted with passion, preserving the legacy of Ottoman ceramic art.
At the gates of the Grand Bazaar, where colors, scents, and centuries converge — a family discovers the finest spices of Istanbul’s timeless market.
Above the ancient waters of the Basilica Cistern, this family stands where echoes of Byzantium still whisper through marble columns.
A quiet moment at Nuriosmaniye Mosque — where Ottoman grace meets timeless calm.

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On average, this is booked 28 (0) days in advance.
4 to 6 hours (approx.)
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Overview

Join a truly tailor-made cultural journey through Istanbul, crafted by a team with over 40 years of experience in guiding travelers through the heart of this timeless city. Led by expert local guides fluent in multiple languages, this tour combines deep cultural insight with warm hospitality. Whether you're passionate about history, art, photography, or simply exploring like a local, we personalize every step of the experience to your interests. Discover iconic landmarks and hidden treasures, hear stories you won’t find in guidebooks, and connect with the real Istanbul — far beyond the tourist trail. This is more than a tour; it’s an unforgettable, immersive journey shaped by decades of expertise. We customize the tour route according to your interests, adding or removing stops to make the experience truly yours. This is a private tour, designed exclusively for you and your group.

What's Included

  • Skip-the-line tickets are available for Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace.
  • A unique opportunity to discover Turkish handicrafts and traditional arts gallery.
  • Private Tour & Professional Guide
  • Meals Meals are not included. Your guide can recommend options based on your preferences or dietary restrictions.
  • Hotel pick-up by guide is possible, but transportation to the Old Town is not included. You will be informed and can use taxi, public transport, or private transfer.
  • Gratuities are not included.
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

Alemdar
Divan Yolu Cd. No:, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye

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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

Hippodrome

Explore the ancient Hippodrome of Constantinople, once the social and sporting heart of the Byzantine Empire. This vast stadium once held over 100,000 spectators, witnessing thrilling chariot races, imperial ceremonies, and public celebrations. Today, visitors can admire historic monuments like the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpent Column from Delphi, and the Walled Obelisk, all standing on what is now Sultanahmet Square. A walk through the Hippodrome is a journey into the pulse of ancient Constantinople.
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45 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Blue Mosque

Discover the majestic Blue Mosque, one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. Built in the early 17th century by Sultan Ahmed I, this architectural masterpiece blends Ottoman and Byzantine elements with six elegant minarets and a grand central dome. Step inside to admire over 20,000 hand-painted İznik tiles in shades of blue, giving the mosque its famous nickname. Still an active place of worship, the Blue Mosque offers a unique glimpse into the spiritual and artistic heritage of the Ottoman Empire.
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45 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

The Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, Istanbul (Pass By)

Our expert guide will unveil the majestic story of Hagia Sophia from the outside — a timeless masterpiece that has stood at the heart of Istanbul for over 1,500 years, witnessing empires rise and fall, and serving as a cathedral, mosque, and now a museum. Should you wish to step inside this architectural marvel and immerse yourself in its breathtaking beauty and history, your guide will gladly assist you in obtaining fast-track tickets, allowing you to bypass the lines and enter with ease.
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TopkapI Palace (Pass By)

Topkapi Palace unfolds through four enchanting courtyards, each offering a glimpse into the grandeur of Ottoman history. Your journey begins with entry to the First Courtyard, where the palace’s story comes alive. Should you wish to explore further, you may continue to the other courtyards upon request. Please be aware that beyond the First Courtyard, an additional entrance fee applies, opening the doors to even more captivating sights and secrets.
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Basilica Cistern (Pass By)

Descend into the mysterious depths of the Basilica Cistern, Istanbul’s largest and most enchanting ancient underground reservoir. Built in the 6th century under Emperor Justinian, this atmospheric space once stored water for the Great Palace of Constantinople. Stroll among its 336 marble columns, softly lit and reflected in still waters, and discover iconic features like the Medusa heads and the "crying column." A hidden world beneath the city — silent, timeless, and unforgettable.
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Grand Bazaar

Step into the vibrant maze of the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. Founded in the 15th century by Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, this historic marketplace is home to over 4,000 shops spread across a labyrinth of lively alleys and domed halls. Discover dazzling jewelry, handwoven carpets, colorful ceramics, spices, antiques, and more. More than just a shopping experience, the Grand Bazaar is a cultural journey through centuries of Ottoman craftsmanship and Istanbul’s trading spirit.
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1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • 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

(6)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Historic Istanbul Walking Experience?

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.

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Activity code: C-5592263P1

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Reviews

5.00
3 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 3 traveler reviews collected by City Boat Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
3
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0

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On average, this is booked 28 (0) days in advance.
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Frequently Asked Questions (6)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Boat Tours customers.

Filter by:

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Historic Istanbul Walking Experience?
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:
  • Skip-the-line tickets are available for Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace.
  • A unique opportunity to discover Turkish handicrafts and traditional arts gallery.
  • Private Tour & Professional Guide.
  • Guided walking tour through historical sites.
The following is NOT included:
  • Meals. Meals are not included. Your guide can recommend options based on your preferences or dietary restrictions.
  • Hotel pick-up by guide is possible, but transportation to the Old Town is not included. You will be informed and can use taxi, public transport, or private transfer.
  • Gratuities are not included.
  • Admissions.
Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure..

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 Historic Istanbul Walking Experience is as follows:

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • 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 Historic Istanbul Walking Experience will be included in your confirmation email from City Boat Tours. 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

What's Included

Activity name

  • Skip-the-line tickets are available for Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace.
  • A unique opportunity to discover Turkish handicrafts and traditional arts gallery.
  • Private Tour & Professional Guide
  • Guided walking tour through historical sites
  • MealsMeals are not included. Your guide can recommend options based on your preferences or dietary restrictions.
  • Hotel pick-up by guide is possible, but transportation to the Old Town is not included. You will be informed and can use taxi, public transport, or private transfer.
  • Gratuities are not included.
  • Admissions

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Specialized infant seats are available

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Lowest Price Guarantee

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The following conditions apply to all lowest price guarantee refund requests:

  • The lowest price guarantee is available to any customer who makes a qualifying purchase through our website. The qualifying purchase must be a minimum of US$20 (or equivalent).
  • The lowest price guarantee covers retail and prepaid rates available to the general public. This does not include discounts or promotions you may receive (or be eligible for) from third-party sites or organizations such as AAA or AARP or special offers made as part of a membership program, corporate discount, daily deal, group, or rewards program.
  • City Boat Tours promotions cannot be combined with the lowest price guarantee.
  • If you find a lower retail or prepaid rate for the same tour, offered on the same date, time and priced in the same currency as your original purchase, on any other website between the time you book on City Boat Tours and 48 hours before your trip starts, we will refund the difference.
  • The lowest price guarantee does not apply where a lower overall price is found by breaking down the purchased tour into one or more parts sold separately.
  • City Boat Tours reserves the right to verify the lower price details. Examples of acceptable forms of verification include a web screenshot or a web address.
  • All refund decisions will be made at the sole discretion of City Boat Tours.

Free Cancellation

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100% refund
No refund

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).

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