Istanbuls Highlights: A Full-Day Guided Tour

It was amazing from beginning to end! Baris shared a lot of helpful info, answered every question we had, and explained everything clearly. The best part for us was making pottery at the ceramic studio, followed by a tasty lunch at Mom’s restaurant. Definitely worth the price I’d definitely suggest it to others.

Helpful? Yes

Everything was just right. Our guide shared plenty of useful information, spoke clearly, and showed real professionalism throughout.

Helpful? Yes

We actually had a 5-star experience. Our guide was fantastic, full of local insights, and made the tour really enjoyable. I would definitely, definitely recommend this tour.

Helpful? Yes

The tour guide was outstanding, really knowledgeable and kept up great enthusiasm all day long.

Helpful? Yes

Excellent service, very friendly, and perfect if you don’t have much time to spend in Istanbul.

Helpful? Yes

Baris, our guide, was fantastic and we truly had a great time on the tour.

Helpful? Yes

Really fascinating experience. Having a guide helped us skip the long lines, which made it totally worth the cost.

Helpful? Yes

Barish was really great thoughtful, professional, and very attentive! The tour was complete and just perfect. Definitely worth doing! The lunch was simple but tasty. I’d recommend this tour to anyone.

Helpful? Yes

Fatih was an amazing guide who walked us through Istanbul’s history with real passion and energy. As an Italian family, we really valued the detailed and thoughtful references to Roman history it wasn’t just the usual stuff. The lunch was fantastic, and the pick up service was smooth, professional, and punctual. We’re grateful to everyone for such an unforgettable experience.

Helpful? Yes

I honestly can’t put into words how charming, rich in history, and beautiful this part of the world is. I loved every bit of it.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was really enjoyable, hands on, and full of interesting info. Baris was an excellent guide, and the lunch was delicious.

Helpful? Yes

Honestly, the experience was amazing and went beyond what I expected. Sevil is a wonderful person and speaks flawless French. She patiently walked me through Istanbul’s full history. It was fantastic, and I learned so much thanks to her. I’d definitely recommend this tour.

Helpful? Yes

Baris made the tour both engaging and full of useful information.

Helpful? Yes

Our tour with Baris was fantastic! We left with a much deeper understanding of Istanbul and Turkey’s history, as well as all the stunning spots we saw. Even on a really busy tourist day, Baris did everything he could to keep us entertained and well fed while waiting in line to see the monuments.

Helpful? Yes

Everything was flawless, and Bosris was the best guide very professional and also quite funny.

Helpful? Yes

We had an amazing day with Baris. He knew so much and kept things fun and interesting. Definitely recommend!

Helpful? Yes

The guide was really attentive and shared a lot of helpful information.

Helpful? Yes

A guide really brings Istanbul’s history alive. This tour is a must for visiting Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. Our guide was fantastic and gave us great tips for exploring the city. Definitely recommend! Skipping the lines with a guide was super convenient. You’re going to love Istanbul!

Helpful? Yes

Overall, the trip was enjoyable. We learned a lot about ancient history and had a great time. The lunch was delicious. One suggestion I have is that the company should consider offering transportation for customers coming from the Asian side.

Helpful? Yes

Had an amazing day tour checking out the main sights in Istanbul! Baris knew a lot and was super helpful all day. He even sent us some extra tips on what else to see while we’re here!

Helpful? Yes

Our guide Baris was awesome and really good at teaching us about the history and culture. I loved visiting the mosques, and it was nice to have a lunch break to relax before we kept exploring.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide made the tour really enjoyable and gave great tips along the way. Because one person asked (and everyone agreed), we even took a little detour! One of us wanted to learn about Turkish leather, so we stopped at a store where they gave us a presentation and even a mini fashion show. Baris was fantastic. I highly recommend this tour! Just make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and ladies, bring a scarf or head covering.

Helpful? Yes

Horizon, my guide, was great at tailoring the day to the group and my interests. He really looked after us. The only downside was not having enough time to see all of Topkapi Palace.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide was outstanding—really knowledgeable, approachable, and clearly passionate about Istanbul’s history. He made the ancient ruins and artifacts come alive, sharing historical details with ease. The tour was perfectly planned, highlighting the best spots in the old city. If you love history, this is a must. Just a heads-up: the entrance fee for Topkapi Palace isn’t included.

Helpful? Yes

It was fantastic and packed with so much information!

Helpful? Yes

The tour was really good! Just a heads-up, some places needed extra fees, so make sure to read the tour details carefully before booking.

Helpful? Yes

It’s definitely worth it. The only downside was that it said they’d pick us up at the hotel, but even though mine was close to the itinerary spots, they didn’t. I ended up taking a taxi myself.

Helpful? Yes

Baris was fantastic! Really knowledgeable and patient throughout. I felt lucky to have had him as my guide. Big thanks to the whole team!

Helpful? Yes

Baris was an excellent guide who took his time explaining everything in detail. He even treated us to some bagels, which was a really kind gesture. Super informative and thoughtful—I'd definitely recommend him.

Helpful? Yes

The staff was friendly and easy to communicate with, especially in the days leading up to the tour. The full-day tour covered a lot, three main stops in the morning (Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern), followed by lunch and then the Grand Bazaar. The tour was informative, though our guide could’ve been a bit more personable, he mostly stuck to sharing facts without much casual interaction. Honestly, you could probably do this on your own, especially since none of the entry tickets are included. That said, going with the tour gives you skip-the-line access at all the sites and a real person instead of an audio guide. They’ll show you the best photo spots, answer your questions, and make sure you don’t get lost. If convenience is what you're after, this is a solid choice and a great way to cover the top sights in one day.

Helpful? Yes

Overall, the experience was really good, and we appreciated how knowledgeable our guide was. It would’ve been nice to have coffee or tea included with lunch to wrap things up, but aside from that, we were very happy with the tour. Thank you!

Helpful? Yes

The guide was clear, easy to follow, and seemed well informed about the local history and landmarks.

Helpful? Yes

Salih was a fantastic guide! Everything ran smoothly, and he shared tons of interesting facts about the places we visited and about Istanbul overall. I learned a lot and would definitely recommend this tour.

Helpful? Yes

Baris was an outstanding guide super knowledgeable and friendly. His enthusiasm was contagious. The tour was fantastic and totally worth the money.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was really good informative and engaging. Our guide was friendly and knew a lot.

Helpful? Yes

The tour started right on time, which helped us avoid the worst of the crowds at the mosque entrances. Our guide was clearly very knowledgeable and spoke in depth about the historical events. The tour was well organized with minimal extra walking, which was a plus. Lunch was tasty traditional Turkish cuisine. The visits to the rug and pottery workshops were a nice extra touch.

Helpful? Yes

Baris was a fantastic guide and took great care of us. Being able to skip the lines was a big plus!

Helpful? Yes

Really good tour. Our guide Baris was excellent.

Helpful? Yes

First off, the guide spoke excellent arabic and was really friendly. I felt comfortable asking about Turkey beyond the tour, which made it a great experience. The only downside was at the end when we were taken to a dried fruit shop. We did buy some, but later realized it was much pricier than at local stores. I wouldn’t expect that in a tourist area, and the big price difference was a bit disappointing. Aside from that, the guide’s explanations were clear and easy to follow, making it a very satisfying tour overall.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was really helpful throughout the tour.

Helpful? Yes

Fatih was a fantastic guy,fun, full of history, gave great advice, and the lunch was really good too. What an incredible experience! I’d highly recommend this to everyone.

Helpful? Yes

What I enjoyed most about the trip, besides the sights, was how friendly and knowledgeable our guide, Mr. Ünal, was. He gave detailed explanations and answered all our questions thoroughly. Definitely recommend this tour.

Helpful? Yes

The trip was fantastic. We were able to get through the crowds easily using the skip-the-line tickets the guide helped us buy. Thanks!

Helpful? Yes

Had an amazing day! Salih was an excellent guide really helpful and full of knowledge.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide’s knowledge was impressive, and the pace he set for the tour was very comfortable. We never felt rushed or ignored at any point.

Helpful? Yes

Great guide! Though overall, it felt a bit pricey since some entrance fees weren’t included.

Helpful? Yes

I’m really happy I joined this tour. There was so much to see at every spot, including Topkapi Palace, and thanks to Filiz’s guidance, I was able to enjoy it all even though I don’t know much about world history. We got into each place smoothly, and the schedule was planned to avoid busy times, so we moved around efficiently. Filiz also took me to some great local spots for lunch in the Grand Bazaar and gave tips on shopping (including bargaining, which was fun). The kebab place he recommended was the best I had during my trip. He was very thoughtful, asking about the restaurants I wanted to try and my lunch preferences. I’m really grateful to Filiz for making it such a great day.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide was great very knowledgeable and made everything easy for us. Overall, the trip was good, though a bit tiring because of all the walking between spots, especially on such a hot, sunny day.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide, Mr. Baris, was really knowledgeable and friendly. He made the tour really engaging. It was definitely worth it I’d recommend it 100%.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was excellent. Our guide was amazing, explaining everything clearly and being very kind and helpful. He has great experience guiding people and is very knowledgeable.

Helpful? Yes

Mr. Baris was a brilliant guide extremely knowledgeable. It would have been easier if we could’ve paid for Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia tickets in advance.

Helpful? Yes

Everything was perfect! Our guide really helped us experience the magic of Istanbul. Highly recommend!

Helpful? Yes

Baris was an incredibly informative guide throughout the tour, sharing detailed facts and background about the historical sites in the old city. His storytelling was clear and broken down into easy to understand English. He answered most questions really well. The tour moved at a great pace I didn’t feel rushed or like any part dragged, and I had time to take notes and a few photos. One suggestion would be for the tour company to provide a flag or sign so it’s easier to spot the guide before meeting up.

Helpful? Yes

AJ was outstanding! Really entertaining and full of knowledge.

Helpful? Yes

Had a fun time! The guide was fantastic definitely a must if you’re ever in Istanbul!

Helpful? Yes

Our guide Baris was excellent. We managed to skip the crowds and still see everything we wanted. Beautiful sites and so much history. Thanks to the whole team!

Helpful? Yes

Fantastic day tour with Baris. He was extremely knowledgeable, not just about the places we visited, but also about Turkish, Roman, and Ottoman history, which helped put everything into context. It was the perfect way to kick off our holiday in Istanbul.

Helpful? Yes

Bruce was super informative and hilarious, keeping everyone entertained throughout. We all had a fantastic time. Definitely recommend!

Helpful? Yes

Boris was an informative guide who knew a lot about Istanbul’s long and complex history, but he explained it really well. He was easygoing and answered all our questions with no problem. A great way to kick off our first day in Istanbul, visiting all the key sites.

Helpful? Yes

One of the best days in Istanbul! Fatih Tasan was an excellent guide and shared so much interesting information about the places we visited.

Helpful? Yes

I would definitely recommend this tour. We were visiting on a port day from our cruise, and meeting the guide outside the terminal was really easy. It was a small group just my family of five and another couple. Our guide, a local resident of Istanbul, gave us great historical insights as we walked around. We got into the Blue Mosque quickly, avoiding the long lines. He was also flexible with the itinerary, which was helpful since we had four teenagers in the group who weren't too keen on a long tour of the Topkapi Palace. Lunch was included, but it was just okay. The only downside was a stop at a rug workshop, where we got roped into a sales pitch. It felt a bit awkward since none of us were interested, but we were just being polite. Aside from that, the tour was excellent, and they even made sure we had transportation back to the ship, which eased our worries about missing the boarding time.

Helpful? Yes

I really enjoyed this tour it was super engaging. Baris, our guide, knew a lot and was always ready to help out. I’d totally suggest this tour to others.

Helpful? Yes

I really recommend this full-day tour of Istanbul. Sure, you could try seeing the sights on your own for less money, but you'd definitely miss out on all the insight that comes from having a guide. Our guide, Mr. Baris, really knew his stuff he shared loads of detailed history and interesting facts at each stop. He also planned the route carefully so we avoided big crowds and prayer times, which meant we had a more relaxed experience and could actually enjoy each location up close. Lunch was included and surprisingly good, even for someone like me who’s quite particular about food. The tour wrapped up at the entrance of the Grand Bazaar, where Baris gave us a few handy tips before letting us explore on our own. And just to be clear there was no pressure at all to buy anything from anyone connected to the guide, which I really appreciated. One piece of advice: wear comfy shoes, because you'll be walking around 3 to 4 kilometers. Overall, it was an excellent day out and totally worth the price don’t overthink it, just go for it.

Helpful? Yes

Baris was a fantastic guide. I’m already thinking about doing another tour next week, and I’d be more than happy if he was leading it again.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was outstanding spoke Italian really well and knew a lot about the places we visited. Super friendly and always willing to help. The stops on the tour were all excellent.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was amazing. He explained everything clearly and really customized the experience to suit the group.

Helpful? Yes

Our tour guide was really knowledgeable, kind, and always ready to help.

Helpful? Yes

Fantastic city tour with plenty of interesting info from our guide, Fatih. He really looked after us the whole time.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was super informative and really well organized. I’d definitely recommend it!

Helpful? Yes

Ahmet, our guide, really knew his stuff and shared some unique stories about both the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace that you wouldn’t hear anywhere else.

Helpful? Yes

Had an awesome time on this tour. Layyda was fantastic she’s really great at what she does. I’d honestly do it all over again just because of her! She knows so much about Istanbul’s history.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was fantastic I got to visit all the main sights and learn a lot about their history. The restaurant served authentic Turkish food, which was a real highlight. Ahmed, our guide, was excellent; as a historian, he clearly knows his stuff. I’m really happy with the experience, and so are my friends. Thanks a lot, Ahmed!

Helpful? Yes

The tour was really great overall. It got pretty hot inside the Blue Mosque, though, and standing for that long was tough for some of us. The guide shared plenty of interesting info, but a few people in the group had a hard time with the heat and the walking.

Helpful? Yes

We did quite a bit of walking around the old town, Constantinople, which makes sense given the area. Our guide was really knowledgeable and made the whole experience enjoyable. At one point, I got a little lost, but he helped me find the group quickly, so no worries you’re definitely in good hands.

Helpful? Yes

The tour guide, I believe his name was Basim, was fantastic. He really knew his stuff.

Helpful? Yes

Would’ve preferred a bit less time spent on the road and more opportunities to interact with the guides.

Helpful? Yes

Mr. Baris was the ideal guide super knowledgeable and genuinely kind. He really went out of his way to share as much information as he could!

Helpful? Yes

Our guide, Barish, was fantastic really smart and full of great info. The tour itself was wonderful, we had such a good time. I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone it’s one of those experiences you shouldn’t skip.

Helpful? Yes

He really knew his history and answered all our questions clearly. He also added a fun touch of humor throughout the tour, which made it even better. We enjoyed it a lot!

Helpful? Yes

It was a really nice and informative day tour. Bruce, our guide, was super friendly and knew a lot about the history behind all the sites we visited.

Helpful? Yes

I had a great day, all thanks to our guide Baris. We saw and learned a lot throughout the tour. The lunch was really tasty too. The only downside was the bazaar we were left to explore it on our own, and it felt overwhelming with so many fake items. But the visits to the mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the palace were absolutely breathtaking. I’d definitely recommend this tour.

Helpful? Yes

I’d recommend this guided tour to anyone. The team was super helpful, supportive, and really cared about the needs of the travelers.

Helpful? Yes

I was picked up from my hotel right on time. Our guide, Fatih, was amazing his explanations were clear and you could tell he truly loves his city and its history. Lunch was delicious, and every place we visited was absolutely beautiful.

Helpful? Yes

Barish was a fantastic guide who gave us a solid overview of Istanbul’s history and how it connected to the places we explored. He really knows his stuff and clearly has a passion for both history and his city. He explained everything in a way that was easy to follow and engaging.

Helpful? Yes

We had such a great time with Fatih as our guide. He was incredibly knowledgeable, and we ended up learning a lot about the city’s history. What made it even better was how open he was to all our questions we really appreciated that, plus we shared a few laughs throughout the day. It is a long tour, and if I had to suggest one thing, I’d say the time at Hagia Sophia felt a bit too lengthy. That said, it’s a fantastic way to see a lot in one day, especially if you're short on time or want to get a solid overview early in your trip. The visit to the carpet workshop and the Turkish delight and spice shop were a nice surprise too. Highly, highly recommend this tour!

Helpful? Yes

The tour was fantastic, and Barış Özkalkan really knows his stuff. He gave us clear and interesting explanations about the history of each place we visited.

Helpful? Yes

This was an incredible tour. Our hotel pickup was right on time, and Seyma from the company kept us well informed about the schedule. Ali, our guide, was one of the best I’ve ever had he really made sure everyone, young and old, could enjoy the tour together. He knows a lot and helped us skip most of the lines, saving us plenty of time. I’d definitely recommend this tour if you’re short on time but want to hit the main sights.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide Borak was excellent, very knowledge and friendly. He made our experience a wonderful one.

Helpful? Yes

Absolutely incredible! The places we visited were stunning, and Barish’s explanations of each spot were outstanding. Easily one of the best guides I’ve ever had.

Helpful? Yes

A truly professional guide who communicated really well with everyone on the tour. We can definitely recommend him one of the best guides we’ve met.

Helpful? Yes

Barış was a fantastic guide and really made the day special for us. There were six of us in total, including our two grandsons, aged 5 and 7. They absolutely loved him and were asking if they could see him again the next day. We got to visit places we probably wouldn’t have found on our own. Honestly, I wish every guide was as good as he was.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide, Barish, was both knowledgeable and super efficient. He did a great job guiding us through the busy spots and made sure we stayed comfortable during the full day highlights tour of Istanbul.

Helpful? Yes

We had an incredible 7-hour walking tour with Baris, who was such a great guide. He really knew his stuff and took the time to explain everything and highlight interesting spots along the way. We visited the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and wrapped up at the Grand Bazaar. I’d absolutely recommend doing this tour with him he’s fantastic.

Helpful? Yes

I really enjoyed this tour the group was a nice small size of about 10 people. Our guide, Barish, was super helpful, full of knowledge, and always happy to answer any questions. He was great at leading us through the city and managed to help us skip the lines at several attractions, which was a big plus. Around 11, he treated us all to some delicious Turkish bagels, which was a thoughtful touch to keep us going until lunch at around 2pm. It’s a good idea to bring a snack or water, though we did stop along the way to grab water too. Sometimes he’d share information while we sat in the shade, which was a nice break. It’s a 7 hour walking and standing tour, so definitely wear comfortable shoes but honestly, the time flew by because there was so much to see and do.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide, Ali, was really professional, knew a lot, and was very respectful throughout the tour. The transportation was comfortable, and while lunch came in a smaller portion, it was definitely tasty.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was fantastic really well informed, friendly, and easy to talk to.

Helpful? Yes

We had a great day with Ali in a small group. He gave really detailed explanations, helped us skip the lines, and timed everything perfectly to avoid the crowds. It was an unforgettable experience in Istanbul.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was excellent. I would definitely recommend this tour.

Helpful? Yes

Ali was an excellent guide who explained everything with passion and great detail. We really enjoyed the tour with my husband and kids. The lunch was okay. Overall, the tour was fantastic, and I highly recommend it, especially with Ali. He was friendly, caring with the kids, and thoughtful to everyone. Big thanks to Ali for such an amazing experience.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide was Ali and honestly, he was amazing. So knowledgeable and really kind. I’d definitely recommend this tour to anyone. Five stars from me!

Helpful? Yes

The guide shared a lot of useful information and took the time to explain everything clearly. We had plenty of free time to take photos and even stopped at some local shops where we could buy Turkish treats, which was a nice bonus. The tour was definitely worth it. The long queues were a bit frustrating, but that wasn’t something the guide could control.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide Ali was outstanding and really knew a lot about the history of his country and its monuments. I highly recommend taking this tour with him.

Helpful? Yes

Barish was fantastic and made our experience really enjoyable!

Helpful? Yes

We had a really enjoyable day. Our guide, Barış Özkalkan, was very knowledgeable and always ready to help.

Helpful? Yes

This was a great trip! If you want to cover Istanbul’s key spots and learn the main facts, this is the perfect way to do it. It was a lot to see in a short time, but in a good way straight to the point. Our guide was excellent, very friendly, and super knowledgeable!

Helpful? Yes

Everything was fine except for the choice of restaurant.

Helpful? Yes

It was a fantastic and informative day that really added a lot to my trip to Istanbul.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide, Mr. Basak, was really kind and helpful. He made sure we could explore at our own pace and took great care of our kids, so the whole family was very happy. The timing was well planned, letting us visit the top sights efficiently.

Helpful? Yes

Barish was a professional and knowledgeable guide who was always kind. The trip covered all the key highlights of the central area and was really interesting. I definitely recommend it!

Helpful? Yes

Barish is an excellent guide who really knows a lot about Turkey’s history. The tour is well planned and offers plenty of great spots for photos. If you need a picture, just ask Barish he’s happy to help.

Helpful? Yes

Beautiful tour with an excellent English speaking guide. However, the entrance fees felt quite overpriced.

Helpful? Yes

We had a great day despite the heavy rain! Since it was just us and one other person, it was easier to get around the sites, listen to the guide’s explanations, and explore at our own pace. Our guide was really knowledgeable and made the history of each place come alive.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was good and very helpful throughout the tour.

Helpful? Yes

Thank you Barish, for an amazing day. You really know your history and explain everything clearly, plus you have a lovely smile. If I come back in the future, I’d love for you to be my guide again.

Helpful? Yes

It was a really nice experience with a small group and our guide Mr. Bariş was fantastic. He knew so much history and kept surprising us with interesting facts all day. The skip the line at Aya Sophia did not work so we had to wait quite a while. Luckily, Mr. Bariş came to the rescue with Turkish bagels for us. Topkapi Palace was stunning but the ticket price felt a bit high. Overall, it was a very good day.

Helpful? Yes

It was a great day and perfect for a first visit to Istanbul. The guide was excellent and shared plenty of information. We moved through the crowds quickly and smoothly. Lunch was simple but tasty and had something for everyone. Overall, a nice and interesting tour that I would definitely recommend.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was really good, and Baris, our guide, was friendly and knew a lot. He took photos for us, answered all our questions, and was very approachable. He was a fantastic guide. The included meal could have been better it was a bit plain but okay overall. Also, there are extra entrance fees, so make sure to bring some cash with you.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was fantastic. Baris was charming and very knowledgeable, and we really felt looked after. Thanks to him, we skipped the lines at Aya Sophia. The lunch included was delicious, and he shared plenty of helpful tips throughout the day.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was excellent and our guide was fantastic. The morning was quite busy with lots to see, and lunch came a bit late. It was okay but nothing special. Overall, it’s a great way to cover many of the main sights in just one day.

Helpful? Yes

This tour was really beautiful and I recommend it if you want to see everything up close in just one day. Our guide Fatih was excellent professional and very helpful throughout.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide Fatih was fantastic! I definitely recommend this tour 100%. Thanks again!

Helpful? Yes

Baris was an amazing guide and very informative. The tour itself was great, but keep in mind there are extra entry fees. Since the Blue Mosque is free, I think the ticket price for the tour could be lower. The Hagia Sophia and the Palace both require tickets, That said, this isn’t a reflection on Baris he was definitely a 10 out of 10!

Helpful? Yes

The whole experience was really nice and everyone was patient and helpful, even though we were five minutes late for our scheduled pickup. Thankfully, it didn’t cause much frustration for the rest of the group, which we really appreciate. We also want to apologize because we know the schedule is tight. The tour guide was very informative and made sure to stay close to the group so everyone knew what to do. Overall, the service was excellent, and we really enjoyed the entire experience.

Helpful? Yes

We had such a fun time on this tour! Our guide was Basak, and she made the experience really enjoyable. The tour took us to spots that only locals usually know about, which made it even more special. Thank you so much!

Helpful? Yes

Boris was a friendly and knowledgeable guide who really understood Turkish history well. The tour was very educational and informative.

Helpful? Yes

We had a great day, mostly thanks to our guide, Mariş. He shared lots of information and explained everything clearly. He was funny and super friendly we really enjoyed having him. The only downside was that there was no transportation back after the tour ended.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide made the day really special. We saw all the key spots in the city in just one day the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and finished at the Grand Bazaar. Burish took his time to explain everything, was kind and patient, and answered all our questions and needs. If you visit Istanbul, this is definitely a day you shouldn’t miss!

Helpful? Yes

Thank you, Fatih, for a fantastic day. Having you as our guide really made the experience even better. We learned so much about the attractions, Istanbul’s culture, and also got to know you. Thanks again and all the best for the future.

Helpful? Yes

Fatih was a friendly and knowledgeable guide. He was happy to answer all my questions about the history of the city and country. The tour was great and covered many important sights in old Istanbul.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide was amazing. He really brought the history and culture to life with his stories. Thanks to his knowledge and way of telling stories, my husband and I felt a strong connection to the places we visited and gained a deeper appreciation for them. I would definitely recommend this tour to anyone wanting to truly experience the beauty of Istanbul.

Helpful? Yes

This was a fantastic tour. Fatih, our guide, was super friendly and easy to talk to. He had a ton of interesting historical info that made the day even more enjoyable. I’d absolutely recommend him to anyone considering this experience. We saw plenty of major historical spots throughout the day definitely enough to fill one day well. I’m really pleased with how everything went, so thanks to GetYourGuide and a big thank you to Fatih!

Helpful? Yes

We had a great time on the tour. Baris was a fantastic guide with loads of knowledge about the places we saw and about Turkish history and culture. The food was also really good.

Helpful? Yes

Baris is a really professional guide. He shared a lot of valuable insights about Istanbul with us.

Helpful? Yes

There was no transportation included in my tour. The guide was friendly, hardworking, and helpful. While I appreciated the insights about the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, I felt the tour wasn’t strictly necessary since most locations are within walking distance of each other. The Topkapi Palace had plenty of signs, and unfortunately, we were rushed through it, so there wasn’t much time to really explore. Once we exited, the ticket couldn’t be reused to go back in, which was disappointing. You really need more time for the Palace, especially considering the long wait to see the jewels. Also, the two-hour lunch break felt too long and wasn’t the best use of the limited time we had.

Helpful? Yes

The tour itself and the guide’s service were excellent. We saw some amazing sites and the guide was professional and informative throughout. However, it's important for future guests to know that lunch isn’t served until around 2 p.m., which felt quite late. Unfortunately, the meal was a letdown it was cold, dry, and overall not enjoyable. The service at the restaurant was average at best, and soft drinks weren’t included either. Given the price of the tour, the lunch experience was very disappointing.

Helpful? Yes

The tour lasted less than 7 hours, and a large portion of it was either spent waiting in lines or having free time. The itinerary focuses only on one district, even though Istanbul has many other interesting areas worth exploring. Lunch was underwhelming and felt more like an afterthought. We visited the Grand Bazaar without the guide, which made it feel disconnected from the rest of the tour. In comparison to other tours I've taken, this one felt less organized and not as comprehensive.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was well organized and started right on time. It's a great option for anyone wanting to cover a lot of sights within a 7-hour window. Since the tour involves walking around 8 miles, it would have been nice to have short rest breaks in the late morning and afternoon. Also, in the midst of very crowded spots, it would have helped if the guide carried something visible like a small flag so we could locate them more easily.

Helpful? Yes

This was a lovely excursion. Our guide had deep historical knowledge and shared so many interesting details along the way. We came away having learned a lot and really appreciated his insights throughout the tour.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was well organized and everything ran smoothly. However, not having transportation back to the hotel in the evening was inconvenient and ended up being an added expense. Including drop-off service would definitely improve the overall value of the tour.

Helpful? Yes

The trip was well put together and even lasted longer than expected, but we managed to see everything on the itinerary. Lunch was delicious and the staff at the restaurant were very welcoming. Our guide, Unal, spoke clear English and did a great job keeping the group on schedule, which was impressive given how crowded the sites were.

Helpful? Yes

I liked the itinerary and the lunch was really good. It would have been even better with a guide who had more knowledge.

Helpful? Yes

The trip was alright and Baris did a good job as a guide. However, I felt the planning of the tour could have been better. We rushed through Topkapi Palace, and missed a good portion of it. In contrast, we spent over an hour and a half at a touristy restaurant that wasn’t particularly impressive. After lunch, there wasn’t much valuable information shared, so skipping parts of Topkapi didn’t make sense to me.

Helpful? Yes

Baris was an excellent guide he made sure we remembered key points by repeating them, was very warm and approachable, and even followed up on questions he didn’t immediately know the answer to. It would have been more convenient if the entry tickets were included in the tour price, but I also appreciated the flexibility it gave those who didn’t want to enter every site. Be ready for a lot of walking. I had some extra needs during the day and Baris really went the extra mile to support me, which I’m so grateful for. Lunch was decent and definitely needed after a busy morning, though it could’ve been more generous. We ended the day at the Grand Bazaar without return transport, which became tricky for me as I got caught in the rain and couldn’t find a taxi, so had to walk back not ideal. Still, the tour was a great way to take in the city quickly, and I learned so much. If you’re short on time in Istanbul, I’d definitely recommend it.

Helpful? Yes

The tour overall was well organized, but I really think more time should have been allocated for Topkapi Palace. Forty five minutes to an hour simply isn't enough to explore such a large and important historical site. There’s so much to see and rushing through it doesn’t do it justice. It felt a bit too hurried compared to the time spent elsewhere.

Helpful? Yes

The tour itself was good and covered interesting places. However, our guide didn’t seem very enthusiastic or involved. It felt like he wasn’t particularly interested in leading the group, which made the experience less engaging than it could have been.

Helpful? Yes

The mosque visits were quite engaging, and our guide shared a lot of valuable information. The restaurant was decent, but the two hours of free time before lunch felt unstructured. Since most of the group opted out of visiting the Palace, it would’ve been helpful if the guide had offered alternative suggestions. Luckily, we came across a Turkish bath nearby which helped pass the time. The Grand Bazaar was very crowded and a bit overwhelming at times. Still, the group dynamic was great, and overall it turned out to be an enjoyable day.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was incredibly knowledgeable and clearly had a deep understanding of the history, which made the tour very engaging. However, one thing that could be improved is how he managed the group. At times, he walked quite fast, and some older members struggled to keep up. It would have been better if he paid closer attention to the group’s pace and checked in more often. Overall though, the tour itself was excellent and very enjoyable.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide was very well-informed and shared a lot of interesting historical context, which I really appreciated. He also gave us time to take photos without feeling rushed. What I didn’t enjoy were the stops at shops. He would take us in, introduce the place, and then leave us there. That made me feel a bit awkward, almost like we were expected to buy something, and it was unclear how to leave or move on. I would have preferred to spend that time exploring more historical sites instead.

Helpful? Yes

Baris had an impressive depth of knowledge and made the experience really engaging. It’s a great option if you want to cover the key highlights of Istanbul and get a solid understanding of the city’s rich history all in a single day.

Helpful? Yes

The tour itself was good and our guide did a great job. His English was clear, and he shared a lot of interesting information throughout the day. My only issue was with the lunch experience. While lunch was included, drinks were not, and when I got the bill for just a few drinks, there was a 27% service charge added. After two weeks in Turkey, I’ve never seen anything higher than 10%, even in high-end places. I normally tip well, but this felt like being taken advantage of, which left a bad impression. Aside from that, the day was enjoyable and the guide did a great job.

Helpful? Yes

This tour gives you a good general look at some of the major tourist spots in Istanbul. However, I didn’t enjoy the unexpected stop at a carpet shop after lunch, where we spent about an hour. That part wasn’t mentioned beforehand and wasn’t something I was interested in. Also, the guide tended to walk ahead without checking if the group was keeping up, which made it a bit difficult for some to follow along.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was enjoyable, and our guide was friendly and knowledgeable. However, she could have done a better job making sure the group stayed together and that everyone could hear her clearly. The tour description didn’t mention it was mostly walking, which was quite a lot for my 84-year-old mother, especially on her birthday. On a nice note, the guide kindly arranged a cake when we stopped for tea, which was really thoughtful. The description should be clearer about how much walking is involved. Also, we paid full entry fees for Topkapi Palace but had very limited time to explore and not much guidance inside. A shorter entry or the option to come back on your own the next day might be better. Overall, it was a good experience but the tour could improve by being clearer about the walking and offering better value. I was traveling with my mother and adult daughter, so it would help if family-friendly details were added to the tour info.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide was very professional and full of knowledge. We saw some fantastic and fascinating sights throughout the day. The only downside was ending the tour in the Bazaar during some snowy weather, with no transport provided back afterward.

Helpful? Yes

The trip was enjoyable overall, but with all the walking, it would have been nice to have one or two breaks along the way.

Helpful? Yes

The excursion went really well, and our guide was excellent with a deep knowledge of the culture. My only regret is that the tour didn’t finish at the original meeting point. Since I’m not familiar with Istanbul, it took me an hour and a half to walk back to my hotel, which was quite challenging.

Helpful? Yes

The trip was pretty intense and didn’t leave much time to really pause and take things in. It felt more like see, snap a photo, and move on. I prefer to explore at a slower pace, soaking in the atmosphere, but we were rushed through. The Blue Mosque suited me better because it felt more peaceful compared to the Hagia Sophia. As for Topkapi Palace, I didn’t think it was worth the entrance fee. I would’ve preferred just walking around the grounds and enjoying the outside it’s a beautiful palace from that perspective.

Helpful? Yes

Since they didn’t pick us up at our hotel, we ended up spending over $25 on a taxi. The ad made it seem like pickup was included, which was disappointing, especially in a city known for taxi scams. The guide was good, but it wasn’t clear that this would be an all day walking tour.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was enjoyable, and the guide was knowledgeable about the landmarks. He was open to questions but didn’t talk constantly, which was nice. Lunch was good but quite late, around 2 pm, so it’s a good idea to have a snack before the tour starts. There was an extra fee for Topkapi Palace. We also stopped at a carpet showroom to watch expensive carpets being made, which wasn’t mentioned in the itinerary. Overall, it’s a solid tour for first-timers in Istanbul who want to see the main sights and get a basic understanding of their history.

Helpful? Yes

The one day Istanbul trip was helpful overall. Transportation was limited to hotel pickup; after that, it was all walking. The team was attentive, and our guide was very professional and knowledgeable. We bought extra entrance tickets online in advance, but that ended up being more expensive and unnecessary. The tour was well organized, and the dinner was enjoyable.

Helpful? Yes

Barish was definitely the highlight of the tour, with an impressive amount of knowledge about the history of the monuments. The tour mainly covered Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. For Topkapi Palace, you have to pay an extra price, which isn’t included. You could actually visit the first two sites on your own if you don’t mind doing a bit of research beforehand. Lunch was average, with limited choices and small servings.

Helpful? Yes

The day trip was a great way to get a quick feel for the city if you don’t have much time. I’d actually recommend splitting it into two half-day tours if possible, since it’s quite a long day with a lot of walking and standing. Our guide was excellent and very knowledgeable. The price seemed fair at first, but once I realized the extra costs for the Sultan’s Palace entrance and the separate fee for the Harem, plus drinks not being included with lunch, the total added up. On top of that, I had to arrange and pay for my own transport home after the tour, which wasn’t clear beforehand and made the trip more expensive than expected.

Helpful? Yes

I got to see a lot of different places and had a really fun time, so thank you! The only downside was that all the walking left me feeling pretty tired by the end.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was really well organized and covered all the key spots. Our guide did a good job sharing background info about the places and their history. I’d definitely recommend it. The guide was a bit distant and didn’t share much about his personal connection to Turkey, which I was hoping for, but I guess that varies with each guide. Overall, this is a great tour to get an introduction to Istanbul and some useful context.

Helpful? Yes

I appreciated how flexible the guide was in adapting to changes, which helped us tour efficiently. The schedule did shift because of mosque restrictions, making it a bit physically demanding, and adjusting wasn’t easy. The guide also explained sites we couldn’t visit and gave helpful suggestions for things to do at night. He patiently answered all my questions about Istanbul, which I really appreciated. Overall, I’m very happy I chose this tour thank you!

Helpful? Yes

We were about five minutes late at the meeting spot, but the guide left us behind at Topkapi. It wasn’t until around 40 minutes later that we managed to reconnect and continue with the tour.

Helpful? Yes

The organization was excellent and the guide was fantastic, very knowledgeable and a great communicator. Everything was perfect except for the lunch, which was a bit disappointing. I was expecting a traditional Turkish meal but ended up with something more like a fast food kids’ menu nuggets and fries. Aside from that, everything else was spot on.

Helpful? Yes

This was an excellent guided tour covering the two mosques and Topkapi Museum. After lunch, we were dropped off at the Grand Bazaar entrance to explore on our own. Our guide, Baris, was fantastic and managed the group with great diplomacy.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was knowledgeable, but there was a bit of a sales pitch at the carpet shop, and we didn’t get a proper tour of the Grand Bazaar.

Helpful? Yes

Lunch could have been larger and served a bit earlier, but aside from that, everything was great. Our guide was fantastic.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide shared a lot of up to date knowledge about Turkish history and spoke English that was easy to understand. I had originally booked a tour in Japanese but was informed just a day before that it was canceled. I joined the English tour instead, which was rushed but still a good experience. You can tell the guide has studied a lot his explanations gave me a deeper appreciation of Turkish history beyond just seeing the sights. Just a heads-up about the booking system: if you want a Japanese tour, it’s best to confirm before booking because I only found out about the change last minute. Overall, no regrets as it turned out well.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was good, but I didn’t feel it was worth the price. Most of the attractions we visited were free, so I wasn’t sure why the tour cost so much. The guides were fantastic and really knowledgeable. However, the stop at the carpet store felt unnecessary and like they were trying to pressure us into buying something, which made me uncomfortable. It didn’t feel like a good way to encourage repeat customers.

Helpful? Yes

The trip was fantastic, and the places we visited were amazing. Our guide was friendly and really knew his stuff. Lunch was a bit of a letdown, though. Overall, I’d definitely recommend this tour.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was outstanding, and the lunch was fantastic. One thing they should make clearer is that the tour is entirely on foot. A gentleman came to pick me up at the hotel, but he walked there and then walked to another hotel to pick up more people. It makes sense given the traffic and how close everything is, but they should emphasize this so people know what to expect.

Helpful? Yes

Be prepared for a lot of walking! Our driver showed up about an hour late, which was frustrating. But our guide, Horizon, was fantastic very loud and detailed, and definitely kept us moving. He was great overall. Lunch was alright, though the portions were pretty small.

Helpful? Yes

The info said we’d be dropped back at our hotel, but instead we were left at the Grand Bazaar and had to find our own way home.

Helpful? Yes

The transportation was really disappointing the driver showed up 40 minutes late. They told us to be ready 15 minutes early, but we arrived half an hour ahead and still ended up waiting over an hour. The guide kept calling the driver because the tour couldn’t start on time. The restaurant experience was awful too; we spent more than two hours there. I ordered a Chicken Caesar Salad and Milanesa with fries, but it took over an hour for the food to arrive, even though the guide kept pushing the waiters. When my food finally came, they asked for the plate back halfway through because it belonged to someone else! I ended up canceling it. It seemed like there was just one waiter handling everything for the whole tour. I’ve never had a meal experience like that before. On a positive note, the guide was really good.

Helpful? Yes

My only issue was that the booking mentioned return transportation, but we were dropped off at the Grand Bazaar instead. It wasn’t hard for me to catch the T1 tram or find my way, though. Overall, it was a great tour with plenty included and really good value.

Helpful? Yes

This isn’t really a tour with transport it’s more of a pickup followed by a walking tour starting from the first stop. I wasn’t picked up since the streets near my hotel were probably too narrow. But I got to the starting point quickly by metro. We learned a lot from the guide. Lunch was alright. I’d skip the carpet shop if I were you. Since we wanted to visit the bazaar earlier, they showed us how to get there. After the bazaar, you have to make your own way back.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was alright, but the lunch wasn’t great. Most people didn’t eat much. They even charged extra for salad and tea, which we thought was pretty unreasonable.

Helpful? Yes

Baris shared a lot of useful info and made sure we had enough time to snap photos. The tour stayed on track time wise too.

Helpful? Yes

The guide impressed me with both his expertise and his easygoing, laid back style!

Helpful? Yes

It was a little long and tiring, but really thorough and covered everything well.

Helpful? Yes

Overall, it was a good trip. Since my hotel wasn’t in the pick up area, I had to get to the meeting point on my own. Considering most places we visited didn’t have an entrance fee, I thought the price was a bit steep. Also, we were taken to a carpet shop and a restaurant during the tour, which made it longer than expected. The last stop at the “big bazaar” was just a quick show of where it is, and then the tour ended.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was definitely worth the price. The communication about the pickup was excellent I got all the details on WhatsApp, knew exactly what vehicle to watch for, and even got a reminder text 10 minutes before they arrived. Our guide, Tolga, was really knowledgeable about the sights, super flexible, spoke perfect English (plus some Spanish for part of our group), and was just a genuinely nice guy. I’d absolutely recommend anyone visiting Istanbul to take a guided tour of Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Sultanahmed Mosque. Before we headed to the Grand Bazaar, they took us to a leather clothing store where they did a catwalk show, which felt a bit awkward. You could wait outside, but some people actually left the tour because of that. Honestly, I’d skip the clothing store part.

Helpful? Yes

We ended up an hour behind schedule, which made our lunch really late. There was no hotel pickup or drop-off. Also, the guide didn’t go into the Bazaar with us he left as soon as we got there.

Helpful? Yes

Really interesting tour! The hotel pickup and drop-off made things super convenient. Our guide was friendly and shared a lot of great info. The only downside was when we were left to explore the Palace on our own it was tough to really take in all the details without someone explaining in English, especially since the palace staff didn’t speak much English either. Still, overall, it was a good experience!

Helpful? Yes

Overall, the trip was good, but the itinerary was changed. We thought it would’ve made more sense to visit the Grand Bazaar at the end instead of earlier carrying everything around while walking through Topkapi Palace wasn’t ideal. Also, there should really be at least two hours set aside for the Grand Bazaar. Our guide was great though really kind and knew his stuff.

Helpful? Yes

Topkapi Palace was closed on Tuesday, which we were aware of, so we went to the cistern instead it was alright. Still, I would’ve expected a partial discount on the total price since a major site was skipped.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide, Ali, was super knowledgeable, friendly, and easy to follow. He really did his best to make sure everyone in the group was comfortable. The headsets helped a lot, though they didn’t always work perfectly but Ali tried to sort it out whenever there was an issue. The itinerary could’ve been clearer. It should mention the stop at the carpet store, free time, and lunch. In our case, the unplanned stops meant we had to wait longer in line at Hagia Sophia, which cut our time short at the Blue Mosque. One small suggestion it would help if the guide carried a flag so we could spot him more easily in crowded areas. Still, it was a good experience overall.

Helpful? Yes

Ugur was a kind and friendly guide really knowledgeable, and he explained everything clearly. This tour is a great introduction to the main highlights of Istanbul. It was a shame the Blue Mosque was closed during our visit.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was great, really knew his stuff. But there wasn’t any clear info that this was going to be a walking tour, which would’ve been good to know in advance.

Helpful? Yes

Overall, it was a very good tour, but the cistern visit was missing. Instead, we stopped by the Hippodrome. The booking actually listed the cistern instead of the Blue Mosque. Also, the visit to the leather shop wasn’t really necessary.

Helpful? Yes

This tour was absolutely amazing truly one of the best experiences I’ve had! Our guide was kind, attentive, and incredibly knowledgeable. Time flew by as we learned so much about Turkey’s history, culture, and even its connection with Japan. I’m so grateful for this experience. Thanks to our guide, we were able to explore even the hidden corners of the city in such a smooth and thoughtful way.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was good and shared a lot of useful info. There wasn’t any transport, but since our hotel was close to the starting point, we agreed to meet there. The only issue was that the guide left us at the Grand Bazaar and said the tour was over we were kind of on our own after that. Also, the visit to the palace didn’t include the private rooms, which was a bit disappointing.

Helpful? Yes

Even with the constant rain and freezing weather, we still managed to visit everything on the list. We were glad we got to see some really interesting spots and learn more about them along the way.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was good, but unfortunately the Blue Mosque was closed for renovation.

Helpful? Yes

I gave the tour 4 stars because the description wasn’t entirely accurate. It’s not really a skip the line tour, and tickets are only included for Topkapi Palace since the other places are free to enter. That said, our guide Kayhan was great really friendly and full of interesting facts. He definitely deserves a 5 out of 5.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was okay, but we expected more detailed explanations from the guide. It’s called the “Best of Istanbul,” but you don’t actually get to see everything. We’ll have to explore the rest on our own. One person in our group even left halfway through because they weren’t happy with the experience.

Helpful? Yes

A really nice tour that covers the key iconic spots in Istanbul. It was a shame the Blue Mosque was closed during our visit.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was okay, and we liked the guide, but the Blue Mosque was closed which wasn’t mentioned on the website.

Helpful? Yes