Half Day Classic Istanbul Guided Tour

Discover Istanbul's beauty and history on a half-day guided tour. Ideal for travelers with limited time, this tour offers a rich exploration of the city's iconic landmarks and cultural treasures.

Half Day Classic Istanbul Guided Tour | ®ExcursionMania
Half Day Classic Istanbul Guided Tour | ®ExcursionMania
Half Day Classic Istanbul Guided Tour | ®ExcursionMania
Half Day Classic Istanbul Guided Tour | ®ExcursionMania
Half Day Classic Istanbul Guided Tour | ®ExcursionMania
Half Day Classic Istanbul Guided Tour | ®ExcursionMania
Half Day Classic Istanbul Guided Tour | ®ExcursionMania
Half Day Classic Istanbul Guided Tour | ®ExcursionMania
×
Half Day Classic Istanbul Guided Tour | ®ExcursionMania

Overview

Your journey begins with a visit to Hagia Sophia, one of the most celebrated landmarks of Istanbul. Originally built as a Byzantine church in the 6th century, this awe-inspiring structure later became a mosque and now stands as a museum showcasing centuries of history, art, and faith. Marvel at the grandeur of its massive dome, intricate mosaics, and rich historical significance.

Continue to the Blue Mosque, another architectural gem and one of the most recognized symbols of the city. Known for its magnificent dome, six minarets, and over 20,000 handmade Iznik tiles that give the mosque its name, this masterpiece of Ottoman craftsmanship offers a tranquil atmosphere for reflection and admiration.

Next, explore the Hippodrome, the ancient heart of social and political life during the Byzantine and Ottoman eras. This historical square was once a venue for grand chariot races and public ceremonies. Today, remnants like the Serpent Column and the Obelisk of Theodosius stand as fascinating glimpses into the past.

Conclude your tour at the vibrant Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest covered markets in the world. Wander through its labyrinth of over 4,000 shops, brimming with colorful textiles, sparkling jewelry, fragrant spices, and unique souvenirs. This bustling marketplace offers a sensory feast and a chance to engage with the local culture.

Select date, participants and language

Adult x 1

Adult

Age 10-25+

Excursion Itinerary

Istanbul
Start Activities

Van (Transfer)

We will pick you up from your hotel and begin our journey to the first stop, the magnificent Hagia Sophia.


Hagia Sophia
Photo stop, Visit, Guided tour,
Duration: 75 minute , Extra Fee

As part of our group tour, we will spend approximately 75 minutes exploring the iconic Hagia Sophia, delving into its rich history and architectural splendor.


Sultan Ahmed Mosque
Photo stop, Visit, Guided tour,
Duration: 1 hour

Our group tour will continue to the Blue Mosque, where we will spend 60 minutes admiring its stunning architecture and learning about its historical significance.


Sultanahmet District
Photo stop, Visit, Guided tour,
Duration: 30 minute

Our group tour will proceed to Sultanahmet Square, where we will spend 30 minutes exploring its historical landmarks and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.


Grand Bazaar
Photo stop, Visit, Guided tour, Free time, Shopping,
Duration: 1 hour 30 minute

Our group tour will conclude at the Grand Bazaar, where we will spend 1 hour 30 minutes exploring its vibrant shops and rich cultural atmosphere.


Istanbul
Finish Activities

For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.

Highlights

  • Admire Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its remarkable architecture.
  • Visit the Blue Mosque, a symbol of Ottoman splendor with its iconic tiles and minarets.
  • Step back in time at the ancient Hippodrome, filled with relics of Istanbul’s past.
  • Experience the vibrant energy of the Grand Bazaar, a shopping haven and cultural landmark.
  • Learn fascinating stories and insights from a professional local guide.

What's Included and What's Not?

Included

  • Pick up from Cruise Ship Port, or centerally located Hotels in Taksim, Beyoglu, Sisli, Besiktas, Fatih, Sultanahmet areas.
  • Services of a professional licensed tour guide and driver
  • Professional Licenced Tour Guide
  • Petrol and parking fees
  • Skip-the-Line access to buy Tickets

Not Included

  • Drop Off (Tour ends in Grand Bazaar)
  • Entrance Fees to Hagia Sophia (25 € EUR Per Person)

Not Suitable For This Activities

  • People with motion sickness

Not Allowed This Activities

  • Alcohol and drugs

Important Information

What to Bring

Camera
Cash
Comfortable clothes
Comfortable shoes
Sunglasses
Sun hat
Sunscreen

Information Before Booking

  • The tour involves some walking; please wear comfortable shoes.
  • The itinerary is subject to change due to local events or weather conditions.

Know Before You Go

  • Entrance fees to attractions are not included and must be paid on-site.
  • Modest attire is required to enter mosques; shorts or sleeveless tops are not allowed.
  • Tour duration may vary depending on traffic and group size.

4.6/5

8
Reviews

About This Activity

Free Cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Reserve Now & Pay Later

Keep your travel plans flexible - book your spot and pay nothing today

Duration 4  Hours

Check availability to see starting times.

Live Tour Guide

English, Turkish

Pickup Optional

Pick up from Cruise Ship Port, or centerally located Hotels in Taksim, Beyoglu, Sisli, Besiktas, Fatih, Sultanahmet areas.Please wait in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup time.

Location

Istanbul Türkiye

Book Today

From

€50.00

per person

Reserve now & pay later to book your spot and pay nothing today

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

Nigel Griffiths - United Kingdom
14 March

Our guide was excellent, always taking the time to provide clear explanations. Friendly and cheerful, his presence made the experience very enjoyable. Many thanks to him for his warm hospitality.

Rose Kavanagh - United Kingdom
27 March

We had a fascinating, fun, and truly enjoyable afternoon in Istanbul. Our guide, whose name I unfortunately can’t recall, was very attentive to our individual needs and ensured we had everything required. Many compliments to her

See More Reviews

Customer Reviews

All reviews are from verified customers who purchased the activity. Reviews can only be submitted after the activity takes place.

Overall Rating

4.6/5

Based on 8 Reviews

Guide

4.6/5

Transportation

4.6/5

Value for Money

4.6/5

By Traveler Types
By star rating
N
Nigel Griffiths - United Kingdom
14 March

Our guide was excellent, always taking the time to provide clear explanations. Friendly and cheerful, his presence made the experience very enjoyable. Many thanks to him for his warm hospitality.

Helpful? Yes

R
Rose Kavanagh - United Kingdom
27 March

We had a fascinating, fun, and truly enjoyable afternoon in Istanbul. Our guide, whose name I unfortunately can’t recall, was very attentive to our individual needs and ensured we had everything required. Many compliments to her

Helpful? Yes

H
Hayley Wilde - United Kingdom
04 April

Overall, the tour was good, but I felt we spent too much time at the Grand Bazaar. I would have preferred to explore more of the city beyond just the mosques. Also, our guide didn’t often check if the group was keeping up, and at times some of us lost sight of him.

Helpful? Yes

C
Choduraa Zverev - Russia
15 April

Our sightseeing guide was very friendly and knowledgeable. However, our small group of nine included two couples who caused repeated delays, so we weren’t picked up until 1:30 p.m. instead of 12:45 p.m. We then only had time to visit two sites, spending about 30 and 60 minutes there on our own. At 5 p.m., a shuttle was supposed to take us back to the hotel in nice weather, but we declined since 100 euros felt way too expensive. The guide focused mainly on the typical, well-known sights found in any travel guide, which we could have explored ourselves. I had hoped to see more unique places that wouldn’t usually be on a standard itinerary. Overall, it was a basic Istanbul classics tour without any special highlights, and I felt it was overpriced for what was offered.

Helpful? Yes

S
Super Sobolev - Russia
27 April
Half Day Classic Istanbul Guided Tour | ®ExcursionMania
Half Day Classic Istanbul Guided Tour | ®ExcursionMania
Half Day Classic Istanbul Guided Tour | ®ExcursionMania

Our guide was highly professional and flexible, tailoring the tour to our requests. Visiting the key sights gave us a great overview of the charm and authenticity of this historic city. We had meaningful exchanges that deepened our understanding of the local culture, making it a truly enriching experience. The lunch, featuring local cuisine, perfectly complemented our immersion in the spirit of Istanbul. Many thanks to our guide for such a rewarding day.

Helpful? Yes

U
Umar Mikhaylova - Russia
05 May

Thanks to our guide Mustafa’s detailed explanations, we gained a deep understanding of the history. He kindly took family photos for us and patiently waited while we took our own pictures. He answered many questions and also shared helpful tips about local restaurants, which was much appreciated.

Helpful? Yes

F
Felix Merk - Germany
21 May

Our guide was very friendly and knowledgeable, and the air conditioned car was comfortable and of high quality. The guide spoke perfect German, making the tour engaging and informative. Everything was extremely well organized and punctual, resulting in a perfect day for us.

Helpful? Yes

S
Steffen Baumann - Germany
02 June

Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and attentive, adapting the tour to our interests. The vehicle was comfortable and air-conditioned, which made the day even better. The tour was perfectly organized and ran exactly on schedule. We truly enjoyed every moment and felt fully immersed in the local culture. It was a flawless experience from start to finish.

Helpful? Yes

Book now

Select person

Adult

12y+

01
Children

2 - 12 years

01
Infant

Below 2 years

01
Proceed to Booking
From
€50.00 per person