Overview
The Roman Empire ruled from 330 to 395, the Byzantine Empire from 395 to 1204 and again from 1261 to 1453, the Latin Empire from 1204 to 1261, and the Ottoman Empire from 1453 to 1922.
Constantine the Great founded Istanbul. He called it Constantinople, which means “the city of Constantine,” and made it the new capital of the Roman Empire. Istanbul has always been a very important city because it is in the middle of both Europe and Asia. Istanbul is on the Unesco World Heritage List because it has so many Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman relics.
The whole city is like a big open-air museum. With all of its differences, such as its mosques, palaces, churches, synagogues, modernity, and history, Istanbul is one of the most interesting cities in the world. We can give you a private tour of Istanbul with a guide so you can see all of these things for yourself.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Private Explore Istanbul City Tour
Professional, Licensed & Local Tour Guide
All Taxes
Private Vehicle with Driver for Asian Side Tour
Entrance Fees (There is no entrance fee applied at the sites)
Lunch
Transportation on Historical Sites Tour (Tram & Public Transportation available)
Meeting and pickup
Pickup is offered, or you can meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
Your guide can meet with you near the Egyptian Obelisk.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What to expect
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Hippodrome
30 min
The Hippodrome: an ancient chariot races U-shaped stadium with 100,000 spectators. Even though the Hippodrome had lost its seats, walls, and much of the remains, the three monuments are still standing: the Egyptian Obelisk, Serpent Column, and Constantine Columns.
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Blue Mosque
30 min
Blue Mosque will be seen from exterior due to long queue! The Blue Mosque: an Ottoman imperial mosque that Sultan Ahmet built between 1609-1616. Even if it is officially called Sultanahmet Mosque, it was named by the travelers’ Blue Mosque after seeing the blue tiles inside.
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Hagia Sophia Mosque
1 hour
Hagia Sophia will be seen from exterior due to long queue! Hagia Sophia: built by the Roman Emperor Justinian between 532-537 and became the highest and the biggest cathedral globally. The church was converted into a mosque by the Ottomans in the 15th century and became a museum in 1934. Hagia Sophia lost its museum status in July 2020 and has become a mosque again. Like the other mosques, Hagia Sophia is open to visitors.
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Grand Bazaar
1 hour 30 min
The Grand Bazaar: the oldest and the largest functioning market globally that houses over 4,000 stores, 61 streets, and is completely covered. Sultan Mehmet II built the Grand Bazaar in the 15th century; then, it was enlarged by the following sultans. Your guide will be more than happy to help you find your masterpiece of Turkish art upon your request.
Please Note: Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays. It will be replaced with Spice Market. -
TopkapI Palace
2 hours
The Topkapi Palace was once the center of the Ottoman Empire. It was a place where people lived and where important decisions were made. In the 1500s, Sultan Mehmet II built the palace, which then became the center of the Ottoman Empire. The Topkapi Palace has been a museum since 1924.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (Europe/Istanbul).
Additional Information
- This is walking tour, please wear suitable shoes.
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Each booking must include at least one adult.
FAQs about Istanbul Private Tour Guide - Best Walking Tour of Istanbul
Can I cancel Istanbul Private Tour Guide - Best Walking Tour of Istanbul for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 6–8 hours.
Where does it start, and is pickup offered?
Your guide can meet with you near the Egyptian Obelisk. Pickup is offered, or you can meet at the meeting point.
What's included?
- Private Explore Istanbul City Tour
- Professional, Licensed & Local Tour Guide
- Private Vehicle with Driver for Asian Side Tour
- Entrance Fees (There is no entrance fee applied at the sites)
What's not included?
- Lunch
- Transportation on Historical Sites Tour (Tram & Public Transportation available)
Which places does it visit?
It visits Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia Mosque, Grand Bazaar, TopkapI Palace.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English.
Is it suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Operated by Romos Travel Agency
