Istanbul: Full-Day Highlights Tour with Guide and Lunch
Beyoglu, Istanbul
Embark on a day out in Istanbul and see all the iconic sites. Learn about the rich history from your guide, and visit the Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Grand Bazaar.
Overview
This full-day Istanbul tour covers major landmarks including the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the Grand Bazaar. Ideal for first-time visitors interested in history and culture.
Highlights
- Visit all the main tourist attractions of Istanbul in one day
- See the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Hagia Sophia
- Learn about Istanbul’s history through guided commentary
- Enjoy lunch at a local Turkish restaurant
- Explore the Grand Bazaar’s maze-like shops
Description
Begin your tour at the Hippodrome of Constantinople, once the social and sports center of the city. View notable monuments including the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpentine Column from Delphi, and the Wilhelm II Fountain.
Next, visit the Blue Mosque, famous for its six minarets dominating Istanbul’s skyline. Continue to Topkapi Palace (additional fee), former residence of Ottoman sultans from the 15th to 19th centuries. Inside, explore the imperial treasury, collections of Eastern porcelain, and priceless artifacts. If Topkapi Palace is closed, the tour visits the Basilica Cistern instead.
Proceed to Hagia Sophia Mosque (additional fee), a monument with significance to both the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. Observe its large dome and mosaics while learning about its complex history.
Conclude the tour with a visit to the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest covered markets worldwide. Browse over 3,000 shops offering carpets, jewelry, ceramics, and leather goods. Experience the aromas of spices, dried fruits, nuts, sweets, and Turkish delights. The tour ends inside the Grand Bazaar.
Includes
- Hotel pickup from centrally located hotels and designated points (optional)
- Deluxe Mercedes-Benz minibus for transfers
- Licensed tour guide
- Lunch at a local restaurant
- Skip-the-line entry to Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia
- Headsets for groups larger than 12
Excludes
- Topkapi Palace entry fee (€60 per person, payable in cash to the guide)
- Hagia Sophia entry fee (€30 per person)
- Hotel drop-off (tour ends at Grand Bazaar)
Important Information
- Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays; replaced by Basilica Cistern visit
- Inner parts of the Grand Bazaar are closed on Sundays
- The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia cannot be visited during prayer times or special events
- The tour ends at the Grand Bazaar
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Booking Tips
Wear comfortable footwear for walking and bring a hat or sunscreen during summer. The best time to visit is in the morning to avoid crowds and visit prayer sites outside of prayer times.
