Private Tour: Ottoman Istanbul Full-Day Tour

8 Hours

Mobile Ticket

Hotel Pickup Offered

Language Offered

Overview

Witness the must-see wonders of Ottoman Istanbul on this full-day private tour. With your own expert guide, explore top Istanbul attractions including the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Grand Bazaar, and visit the glorious Hagia Sophia, the 6th-century basilica turned into an Ottoman mosque in 1453. Learn about Istanbul's fascinating history from your guide, and stop midway for a delicious included lunch at a local restaurant. Upgrade to make your visit to the Hagia Sophia in the early morning or evening, so you can enjoy its treasures without the crowds.

Full-day private tour of the highlights of Ottoman Istanbul
Visit the top Istanbul attractions of the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia
Absorb the sights, sounds and aromas of the chaotic Grand Bazaar
Ogle Istanbul's skyline from the Bosphorus waterfront
Break for a delicious, included lunch at a traditional restaurant
Upgrade to visit the Hagia Sophia before or after opening hours for a crowd-free experience
Enjoy undivided attention and in-depth commentary from your own private guide

Inclusions & Exclusions

Departure & Return

What To Expect

Select your tour option when you book, and on the day, begin with a pickup from your central Istanbul hotel. Meet your private guide, receive a blue-and-white "˜evil eye' token as a gift, and settle into your private, air-conditioned minivan.If you've chosen to visit the Hagia Sophia during its regular opening hours, make your way first to this incredible UNESCO-protected building for a 1-hour guided tour. Step inside with your guide and marvel at the soaring dome and glittering mosaics as you hear about its tangled history. Constructed as a Christian basilica by the Emperor Justinian in the 6th century, this astonishing edifice was converted to a mosque by the Ottomans in 1453.Continue to the exquisite Blue Mosque, whose six minarets are a famous fixture on Istanbul's skyline. Head inside for a guided tour of the stunning interior "” a vision of bright blue, delicately painted Iznik tiles. Next, stop by at the Hippodrome, the city's former Ottoman chariot-racing arena, and then pay a visit to the Topkapi Palace. This opulent palace was the power base of the Ottoman sultans for more than 400 years, and boasts ornamental courtyards, rich chambers and lavish treasures that bear witness to the sultans' wealth and pampered lives.After lunch at a local restaurant (see the Itinerary for a sample menu), dive into the Grand Bazaar. Delve into the chaotic corridors and browse the colorful stalls hawking carpets, lanterns, leather and other goodies. Refuel with a Turkish coffee along the way, and then finish with a waterfront stroll to admire stirring views over the Bosphorus Strait and city skyline.Your tour then concludes with a hotel drop-off.Optional Early Morning or Evening Visit to Hagia SophiaUpgrade to enjoy an early morning or evening visit to the Hagia Sophia and enjoy a 1-hour tour with your private guide, but without the crowds!Choose to arrive before the official 9am opening time and be one of the first of the day to experience its glorious interior. Alternatively, select an evening visit as the last port of call on your private tour. Arrive after the official closing time of 6pm in winter (November to March), or 8pm in summer (April to October), and make the most of the interior free from the noise and bustle of the main daytime crowds.ItinerarySample Menu:Turkish pitta breadTurkish tulum (goat's milk) cheese served with fresh butterMini lahmacun (Turkish pizza topped with spicy mince and salad)Pastry with cheeseAssorted kebabsSeasonal saladTurkish dessertCoffee and tea

Private Tour: Ottoman Istanbul Full-Day Tour

Inclusions & Exclusions

Departure & Return

What To Expect

Hotel Pickup

Additional Info

Cancellation Policy

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