Istanbuls MustSee: Hagia Sophia Blue Mosque Grand Bazaar Tour

Our guide was adaptable and flexible throughout the day. We had expected a shuttle van for the entire day, but it was only provided for the initial trip. For the return, we took the tram, which was a bit difficult with our large group and some young children.

Helpful? Yes

The entrance fee is quite expensive.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was informative and friendly, always getting straight to the point as they liked to say. It was a truly wonderful experience.

Helpful? Yes

We really enjoyed ourselves, exploring at our own pace. Our tour guide was very friendly and shared a lot of interesting history about Istanbul. I would definitely recommend this tour!

Helpful? Yes

The excursion itself was good, but the Grand Bazaar experience was disappointing. Instead of visiting the bazaar as expected, we were taken to a high-end mall and made to watch a fashion show, which we hadn’t booked or wanted. We only had about 30 minutes of real time and then had to rush on our own, which felt like a waste.

Helpful? Yes

The tours of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia were beautiful. I was on a solo tour, and we headed to the bazaar next. However, at the bazaar entrance, the guide said the tour was over and thanked us. When I asked if she was coming in for the 75 minute bazaar visit, she said no, the tour had ended. I was left wondering how to get back to my hotel since I expected transportation.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide was very accommodating throughout the day. Initially, we expected a shuttle van to be available the whole time, but it was only used for the first leg of the trip. We ended up returning via tram, which was a bit tricky with our big group and some young children.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was knowledgeable, very approachable, and had a great way of summing things up quickly just like he always said. Overall, the experience was fantastic.

Helpful? Yes

We had a fantastic day exploring at our own pace. Our guide was welcoming and gave us plenty of information about Istanbul’s history. I'd certainly suggest this tour to others.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was enjoyable, although the part that was supposed to cover the Grand Bazaar didn’t meet our expectations. Instead of visiting the actual bazaar, we were taken to a high end shopping place and shown a fashion presentation, which wasn’t part of the plan. We wasted about 30 minutes there, had to rush to find the real bazaar on our own, and almost missed our flight due to the delay. A partial refund would be fair.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide was excellent, and the small group size made everything more personal. Skipping the line at Hagia Sophia really made a difference.

Helpful? Yes

Great time walking through Istanbul’s landmarks. Our guide was fun and knowledgeable, and the whole experience felt smooth and insightful.

Helpful? Yes

Our walk through Istanbul was packed with history and local flavor. We enjoyed every moment, thanks to our friendly and engaging guide.

Helpful? Yes

The tour of the Grand Bazaar was enjoyable and gave us a glimpse into Istanbul's bustling market life.

Helpful? Yes

Baris led our tour with great energy and clear organization, despite the snow and cold. He always made sure no one got left behind, even when I slowed things down for photos or a quick shoe fix. He answered all questions in detail and made the whole tour feel personal. I’d highly recommend this, though preferably on a warmer day.

Helpful? Yes

In just four hours, we explored some of Istanbul’s most beautiful sites. Baris, our guide, truly made the day unforgettable I left the tour with a deeper love for this city.

Helpful? Yes

It was a very well-organized and enjoyable tour. The guide was polite, informative, and kept the group engaged the entire time.

Helpful? Yes

Though brief, the visit was informative and enjoyable. The guide knew how to maintain the group’s interest and made the experience worthwhile.

Helpful? Yes

Everything went smoothly and I was quite satisfied with the experience.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide was fantastic, and we really enjoyed learning more about the mosques. One thing to keep in mind the tour details seemed to imply we’d have a guided walk through the Grand Bazaar, but instead we were simply dropped at the entrance and continued on our own without any explanation.

Helpful? Yes

The team handled everything well, and the day was enjoyable.

Helpful? Yes

Pickup was done from Taksim Square, but this detail wasn’t clearly stated before we booked. That said, the guide did an excellent job explaining the key highlights at both the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide had a deep understanding of the history and was incredibly approachable. He definitely knew what he was talking about and made the experience even better.

Helpful? Yes

Wonderful tour with a guide who was both informed and enthusiastic. We visited some incredible places.

Helpful? Yes

It was a smooth experience overall.

Helpful? Yes

Unfortunately, the Bazaar segment only included a drop-off, with no guide-led portion or background info. The rest of the tour was great and lasted about two hours.

Helpful? Yes

Everything was excellent from start to finish.

Helpful? Yes

Very well arranged. We had a great day.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide was friendly, informative, and made the tour both educational and enjoyable. We learned a lot about Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque thanks to his guidance.

Helpful? Yes

Everything was organized well, and the day ran smoothly.

Helpful? Yes

We had a nice experience. The tour covered the major spots and the guide was helpful.

Helpful? Yes

Mert was an outstanding guide extremely patient and incredibly thorough. I really valued how much context he gave to everything we saw. Absolutely recommend him.

Helpful? Yes

Our tour guide was excellent he knew the history and made everything feel engaging. This tour was definitely worth the price.

Helpful? Yes

Great guide with genuine passion. It’s a perfect tour if you're limited on time but want to cover key highlights.

Helpful? Yes

Berat was an incredibly attentive guide. He made sure no one fell behind and helped us find the best spots for pictures. We really appreciated how he spoke up when someone ignored the no-smoking signs. He also suggested places we could visit beyond the tour. Much appreciated.

Helpful? Yes

Well done tour. Everything was explained clearly and thoroughly.

Helpful? Yes

This was a brilliant and highly educational experience. Our guide Mert was excellent throughout.

Helpful? Yes

We had a wonderful time on this tour. The operator called the day before to confirm everything, and Baris gave us rich historical insights during the tour.

Helpful? Yes

Everything was perfect! The guide was amazing and the architecture was stunning. Even the weather cooperated that day.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was both knowledgeable and patient. He explained the history thoroughly and even allowed time for shopping in the Bazaar. I’d happily recommend this tour.

Helpful? Yes

I didn’t think the experience lived up to its cost.

Helpful? Yes

Fantastic. Our guide was excellent, the sites were beautiful, and even the weather was on our side.

Helpful? Yes

A very smooth and enjoyable tour. Everything was well explained and well organized.

Helpful? Yes

Fatih was an outstanding guide very kind and helpful. He explained everything in detail and made sure I felt comfortable throughout.

Helpful? Yes

Everything went perfectly. Baris was excellent—he covered all the historical points and gave us extra insight. We truly appreciated the experience and highly recommend him.

Helpful? Yes

It was an outstanding tour. Many thanks to Baris Özkalkan for his clear explanations and friendly manner. We recommend him without hesitation.

Helpful? Yes

Everything was fine, but nothing particularly stood out.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was friendly and shared a wealth of information throughout the tour.

Helpful? Yes

This walking tour was completely worth it. Ahmet got in touch in advance and ensured everything went smoothly from the start. He arrived early, even sent a photo to help us find him, and was extremely knowledgeable. He answered all our questions, took our photos, and shared a lot about the places we visited.

Helpful? Yes

Well-organized and informative. The whole day went exactly as hoped.

Helpful? Yes

Very satisfied with the experience. Everything was explained clearly and the group was managed well.

Helpful? Yes

Nice tour overall. The guide stayed in communication from the moment we booked and made everything clear at the meeting point. The visits to Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque were efficient and unhurried. Great spots for photos were also shown.

Helpful? Yes

The guide really made the tour worthwhile. It was disappointing that we couldn’t enter the mosques, but there was at least one nearby that was open and would have been nice to include.

Helpful? Yes

Really great tour with just the right amount of time to get a sense of direction and explore the Grand Bazaar too.

Helpful? Yes

Everything was perfectly arranged and the guide handled everything smoothly.

Helpful? Yes

A great tour that was very well organized and informative.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide was incredibly informative. It’s definitely worth taking this tour just be mindful of the strong sales tactics when visiting leather and carpet stores. Always start your bargaining low.

Helpful? Yes

We really enjoyed the tour. The guide was kind and conducted everything professionally.

Helpful? Yes

Knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful guide. Would recommend to anyone interested in learning more about the city.

Helpful? Yes

This was a well-rounded tour. Our guide Ali was excellent at pointing out key historical details. It went above and beyond my expectations. Highly recommend.

Helpful? Yes

We had a fantastic experience. Although the Blue Mosque was closed on our visit, the organizers quickly arranged alternatives and made sure we still had a great time. Just note: there’s no real “skip the line” for Hagia Sophia.

Helpful? Yes

Ozge, our guide, was phenomenal. His passion for history and engaging delivery made the tour truly special. He was well prepared, clear in English, and ensured everyone was included.

Helpful? Yes

The entire experience went well from start to finish.

Helpful? Yes

Pleasant city walk. Our guide Baris had a friendly attitude and made the experience enjoyable. We recommend both the tour and the operator.

Helpful? Yes

Nice explanation of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. The stop at the carpet shop was good for a break, but it went on too long. Bazaar was supposedly closed on Sunday, and instead we were taken to a leather store with a fake fashion show and pushy sales pitch. Online it says the Bazaar is open on Sundays, so we’re unsure.

Helpful? Yes

Professional, well-informed, and friendly guide. I definitely recommend this experience. Thanks to Barish for the great service.

Helpful? Yes

Ali was a great guide attentive, humorous, and well versed in history. He really took his time to ensure everyone had a good experience.

Helpful? Yes

Mert was an outstanding guide, extremely well-informed and shared so much with us that made the entire experience more engaging. Strongly recommended.

Helpful? Yes

Ozkan led an exceptionally detailed and inclusive tour. I expected a visit to just three main landmarks in the old city, but instead we got a deep and immersive tour of the entire area. Would definitely suggest it to others.

Helpful? Yes

An excellent tour filled with valuable insights and background information.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was fantastic and the places we visited were very interesting.

Helpful? Yes

Mert was very informed and attentive throughout the tour. It was definitely worth the cost.

Helpful? Yes

Guide was genuinely nice person. We had a great time and felt very comfortable. The guide was well-prepared and easy to talk to.

Helpful? Yes

Ali was an excellent guide with lots of energy and great historical knowledge. I had visited Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque before, but hearing the stories behind them made the experience entirely different.

Helpful? Yes

The pickup was well organized, and our guide Oz provided a lot of information and remained patient. The tour itself was great, though the heat made it a bit challenging. Still, we enjoyed it overall.

Helpful? Yes

This tour was incredible from beginning to end. Our guide Can gave us plenty of time to explore and take pictures, and he filled the tour with interesting historical facts. It was both informative and fun.

Helpful? Yes

Very informative guide who shared detailed knowledge and was pleasant to follow.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide was excellent he arrived early, ensured smooth access to every site, and provided thorough historical background. Mert was truly one of the top guides we’ve had.

Helpful? Yes

Nur was very friendly and highly informed. The tour was full of valuable insights and we were impressed.

Helpful? Yes

Absolutely worth it. The guide told great stories about the architecture and offered helpful tips along the way.

Helpful? Yes

The trip was generally fine, but not overly exciting. The carriage ride was okay, but I expected a bit more from the experience overall.

Helpful? Yes

It was a decent day out, but I wouldn't say it was anything remarkable. The boat worked fine and the carriage ride was relaxing, yet it all felt a bit underwhelming.

Helpful? Yes

The scenery was nice, and the ride around the island was pleasant, but the overall experience lacked something special. Not bad, just not memorable either.

Helpful? Yes

We had no issues with the transportation, and everything ran on time. Still, the overall tour felt a little basic. Good for a calm day, but not much more.

Helpful? Yes