The Sultan Ahmet Camii, the Blue Mosque, is a breathtaking, majestic Ottoman mosque. Its cascading domes and six slender minarets pierce Istanbul's skyline. Completed in 1616 under Sultan Ahmet I, it rivaled Hagia Sophia's splendor. Inside, serene beauty awaits. Over 20,000 blue Iznik ceramic tiles adorn walls. These intricate floral tiles create its ethereal glow as sunlight filters through 200+ stained-glass windows. The soaring central dome, on four massive fluted pillars, evokes immense spiritual calm. Every detail, from mihrab's mother-of-pearl to minbar's carved marble, highlights exquisite craftsmanship. It's an immersive experience, a testament to Istanbul's rich heritage. Important Visitor Information: Note: No priority entrance for guides at mosques. We only skip lines at museums. Be cautious of contrary claims.
The Hippodrome of Constantinople, nestled in Istanbul's vibrant Sultanahmet district, was ancient Byzantium and Constantinople's bustling public arena, primarily famed for its exhilarating chariot races. Its name, fittingly, combines the Greek words hippos (horse) and dromos (way). Far more than just a race track, this vast space was the epicenter of city life. It hosted grand gladiatorial games, elaborate official ceremonies, joyous celebrations, and even fervent public protests. Darker chapters saw it used for the torture of convicts, reflecting its complex role in the city's history. The Hippodrome seamlessly functioned through three monumental eras: the Roman (203-330 CE), Byzantine (330-1453 CE), and Ottoman (1453-1922) periods, bearing witness to centuries of imperial power, public spectacle, and profound societal change. Today, though much reduced, its spirit lives on in Sultanahmet Square, surrounded by iconic landmarks, still inviting visitors to imagine its storied past.
The Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque / Ayasofya-i Kebir Cami-i Şerifi, a marvel of innovative architecture and rich history, was Istanbul's largest Eastern Roman Church. Constructed three times in the same location, it stands as the world's oldest and fastest-completed cathedral. Its breathtaking domes, seemingly suspended in air, grand monolithic marble columns, and unparalleled mosaics solidify its place as a true wonder of architectural history. The mosque's sheer dazzling beauty, a magnificent interplay of space, light, and color, profoundly inspires awe in every visitor. Strategically located on Istanbul's first hill, precisely at the historic peninsula's tip, it is gracefully embraced by the Sea of Marmara, the Bosphorus, and the Golden Horn on three sides. Important Visitor Information: Tickets are required for entry to Hagia Sophia's designated tourist section. Our guides will assist with your entry process.
Step into a breathtaking subterranean world commissioned by Emperor Justinian in 532. The Basilica Cistern, İstanbul's largest surviving Byzantine marvel, mesmerizes with its sheer scale and symmetry. Its vast, cavernous depths are supported by 336 ancient columns, many salvaged from ruined temples with exquisitely carved capitals. This architectural wonder offers a serene and cool escape from the summer heat. Please be aware that museum guides may have priority access, allowing their groups to skip lines.
Explore Topkapı Palace, the grand residence and administrative headquarters of the Ottoman sultans from the 15th to the 19th centuries. The palace and its legendary Harem hold more colorful stories than most world museums combined—tales of powerful sultans, clever courtiers, and beautiful concubines. A visit to its opulent pavilions and jewel-filled Treasury offers a captivating glimpse into their lives. A comprehensive tour takes a full day, so our visit will focus on the key highlights of your choice. As licensed guides, we can bypass the queues for immediate entry. ***Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays. On Tuesdays, Dolmabahce Palace is visited instead
Istanbul's Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı in Turkish) is one of the world's greatest shopping destinations and, spanning 30,700 square meters, the largest covered market in the entire world. ***The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays
We will do a bosphorus cruise on a public boat for 90 minutes. Bosphorus is worth to visit not only for business but also for recreation and eye appeal. Alongside the Strait on both continents, there are exceptionally attractive views of Ottoman architecture created by manor houses and palaces. Most of the tourist attractions also have some kind of this magnificent scenery.
— Tuesdays Only — On Tuesdays, when Topkapı Palace is closed, the itinerary includes a visit to Dolmabahçe Palace instead. Built during the nineteenth century, the palace served as the administrative center of the late Ottoman Empire and is celebrated for its impressive ceremonial halls, European-influenced architecture, and lavish decoration. During the Bosphorus cruise on other days, Dolmabahçe Palace can also be viewed from the water.
Located just before the Bosphorus Bridge, the Ortaköy Camii, Turkey (Ortaköy Mosque Turkey) has to have one of the most picturesque settings of all of the Istanbul mosques. Indeed, Ortaköy Mosque photos, with the bridge in the background are often used to demonstrate that particular Istanbul juxtaposition of traditional and modern.
Rumeli Castle (Rumeli Hisarı) is an Ottoman fortress dating to 1452. It was built by Ottoman sultan Mehmed II (Mehmed the Conqueror) in preparation for the conquest of Constantinople. The castle is situated on the shore of the Bosphorus Strait at its narrowest point with approximately 660 meters. It is just opposite of Anadolu Castle (Anadolu Hisarı) which is another Ottoman castle built-in 1394 by Bayezid I. Both Anadolu Castle and Rumeli Castle were built by Ottoman sultans in order to prevent military and economic aid to the Byzantine Empire coming from the north, Black Sea. Thus, the Bosphorus strait connects the Black Sea with the Marmara Sea.
This attractive part of the İstanbul strait on the Asian shore is mentioned by Byzantine historians, and in Ottoman times became one of the imperial parks known as Kandil Bahçesi (Lantern Garden). Sultan Murad IV (1623-1640) was particularly fond of Küçüksu and gave it the name Gümüş Selvi (Silver Cypress), and in several sources from the l7th century onwards the name Bağçe-i Göksu is used. During the reign of Mahmud I (1730- 1754) Divittar Mehmed Paşa built a two storey timber palace on the waterfront here which continued to be used by Selim III (1789-1807) and Mahmud II (1808-1839).
Described by some as a miniature Dolmabahce Palace but without the crowds, the Beylerbeyi Sarayı (Beylerbeyi Palace) was commissioned by Sultan Abdülaziz to act as an imperial summer residence. With 24 rooms, 6 halls, and a hamam, it would have been quite the summer home and was also used to entertain visiting dignitaries.
Also known as the Galata Kulesi Museum, an iconic symbol situated in the Galata quarter of İstanbul, Türkiye. Considered among the oldest towers in the world and one of the symbols of İstanbul, Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) was included in the UNESCO World Heritage Temporary List in 2013. Galata Tower, one of the most important structures that make up the silhouette of İstanbul, was used as a long-term fire watchtower and was named Galata Fire Tower.
Constructed under the edict of the ottoman emperor, yildirim bayezid, in beykoz district today to facilitate to istanbul’s conquer, the anatolian fortress is one of the pieces that greatly contributes to the charming silhouette of istanbul.
Excellent experience. Ludviq was very communicative from the point we booked the tour to meeting for it to begin. We knew virtually nothing about the area or country and he did a great job of providing the kind of historical context that made each site relevant. He brought energy to the tour and helped make it memorable. Strongly recommend.
Fantastic tour! If I had visited the sites on my own, I would have missed out on so much. Ludviq is an amazing guide with great knowledge about the sites and their history. He is very kind and helpful as well. I did this tour on my first day in Istanbul and it helped me to understand the city a bit so that the rest of my trip was much easier.
Our guide Lutfi was great, and was very accommodating to our requests which allowed us to complete the majority of the tour before it started raining heavily.
Our guide Ludwig was fabulous. Incredibly interesting and informative
Our guide, Lutfullah is very accomodating, knowledgeable, friendly and reliable. One of the best tour guide I've ever had. 5 star
My husband and I had the most spectacular day with Ugur. We had booked a small group tour but ended up being the only ones and Ugur dedicated the day to making all of the history and sites come to life with his extensive knowledge and his own passion for sharing. We asked endless questions and he not only knew all the answers- he delved deeper in areas we were most interested in. He is so kind, thoughtful, funny and all around so educated about Istanbul and Turkish history. We had the best time we could have ever had ! This is a must do tour with Ugur! Thank you so much Ugur for all we learned from you ! You are the best !
Comprehensive and informative, this tour gave me a outstanding overview of Istanbul's history and the factors which influenced its evolution over time. Lufti was an exceptional guide whose guiding enabled me to experience numerous sites that I would not otherwise independently visit in one day, let alone understand its fascinating history. It was a long day with lots of walking but one I thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated.
First, Lutfullah was absolutely a wonderful guide, had incredible knowledge of both Byzantine and Ottoman history, and was quite funny. He changed the itinerary to suit our needs. Recommended shopping and restaurants. We had a wonderful lunch together and would do the tour again. It was the best tour, especially with the limited time we had. We saw it all. Thanks Lutfullah
Lutfi was our guide and he was fabulous! He was extremely knowledgeable about all of the sites sharing history, legends and answered all of our questions. He had recommendations for restaurants and other activities. Also, he was very capable in herding our little group through crowded areas ensuring that we had the best spots for photo opportunities.
Ludvid was warm, friendly and funny. He showed us the highlights of Istanbul in one day. We effortlessly went from place to place. It was capped off with the lovely cruise. Overall, an amazing day.
Great Tour. Long Day. Lutfallah was a great guide, extremely knowledgeable and kind. We had a great time and would highly recommend if you want to see all the main sites in one day.
A well organized vigorously scheduled way to experience all the major sights of Istanbul’ with a knowledgeable and caring guide
First, this tour is not for the weary. It's long. But we covered a ton of history and places in Instabul. I felt like we were in a delightful maze, new discoveries to see and/or learn around every corner! The tour was exactly as described. The handling of the entrance fees was professional and efficient. The communication beforehand was good! The sites were planned out well and even though I was tired, I was also curious enough to keep going. The end with a tour on the Bosphorous was perfect. However, the star of the show was Ugur. I don't know how he keeps all that information in his head, but he does! It was do informative! So much so we followed up on some of his recommendations the next day and they didn't disappoint. He gave us plenty of breaks. He was very patient and laid back. In the market, he was just the right amount of support for us weary bargainers. He was also very witty which kept us chuckling! After the tour, he made sure we each knew exactly where to get off. I felt safe all day! It was our last tour and a great way to end our time in Istanbul. Thanks so much for the information, care, and laughs, Ugur.
We had a great experience! Extremely informative, great humor, and we covered everything we wanted to do! He was very kind and knowledgeable. Will definitely recommend him!
Ludviq was a great guide, funny, friendly and very knowledgeable. We got to see all the main sights of Istanbul. A really great day, thank you ☺️
Ludwig is a brilliant guide, funny, encyclopedic knowledge of the city and its history, we had a great time, I highly recommend him.
Lutfi was an excellent guide. He made the rich and sometimes violent history of Istanbul come to life. We learned so much during our tour. His thoughtfulness extended to bringing tissues lfor adies to use in the bathroom on the ship. Highly recommend.
Absolutely amazing tour! Lutfi was my guide, and he was very sociable and engaging during our tour. If you want to see all the highlights of the European side of Istanbul, take this tour! Just make sure to wear a good pair of shoes, because it is a LOT of walking.
In a stroke of good fortune my small group tour became a private one. Lutfi was informative and patient with all my questions. Highlights included the Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace Harem, and the Bosphorous boat tour, all amazing sights with engaging commentary from Lutfi. He points out small details I would never have noticed just wandering around on my own. I was never bored and neither will be anyone who takes this tour. Amazing introduction to the complex history of the city!
Ludwig did an amazing job showing us Istanbul. So friendly and welcoming, very blessed to do this. Ludwig was very knowledgeable and patient. Thank you!
Ludwig was brilliant and fun. He made the tour most interesting and we had a fabulous time. He is very knowledgeable and will be extremely happy if you quiz him nonstop while walking through this beautiful city. He aced his history examination and didn’t have to pay off any officials or politicians that we know of.
Lutfi was excellent!! Very knowledgeable and was able to answer all my questions. I was the only participant, so it ended up being a private tour. As such, he was very accommodating, and I got the exact experience i was looking for. We did all the major sites as well as a bosphorus tour boat, but Lutfi was the best part. 100% recommend.
Lutfullah is great. Even my flight got cancelled and I couldn’t make it on the same day I contacted him and he was able to move it to a different day. What a legend. Thank you
Great 1 day overview of Istanbul - Lutfi updated on details & what to bring/wear in advance and gave a great tour of all key attractions, while helping out with photos and adjusting schedule if needed (we had a great stop for lunch)☺️ ended up being an individual tour for me, which was even better! Thank you!
We had a great day with Lutfi our tour guide. He had skip the line access to see everything in one day. We walked about 9 miles in total but the weather was nice and we had some sit down time. Lufti has great English so we were able to ask many questions that weren’t really part of the tour. Highly recommend.
Lufti is professional and approachable . Thumbs up
I attended the tour on Jul 19, Ludviq, the tour guide, who had the sense of humor and there was no down time during the tour and he was informative, he was such a helpful guy and even helped me check in the flight online, my husband and I had a great time with him.
Great way to see the highlights of Istanbul and get a good feel for what the city has to offer. Very well organized, well executed and highly informative. Our friendly ans knowledgeable guide Luftullah provided insight, history and context throughout the day.
Lutfi was incredibly knowledgeable about the history of the sites in Istanbul and shared numerous interesting stories. This was a walking tour (in July) so it was hot but the pace was comfortable and there were good beverage breaks.
Lutfulah was an amazing guide. He is very knowledgeable, took the time to explain the history, culture and share personal experiences. He is very personable and entertaining. I really enjoyed the day with him and would highly recommend this tour.
Lutfullah was our guide on our first day in Istanbul. After that tour I wish we stayed much longer in this beautiful city and had more tours with him. He was very kind and knowledgeable and we had a great pleasure to listen to him about the history of the places we visited and the city in general. It’s a walking tour and you need to be ready to make at least 14,000 steps that day. Wear comfy shoes! I wholeheartedly recommend the tour with this fine gentleman!
Great Experience with our Guide, we had a private tour of the blue mosque, the Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cisturn
This walking tour immerses travelers in all things Istanbul including history, religion, culture and royalty! We visited several different Istanbul landmarks and ended our tour on a beautiful cruise down the Bosphorus admonishing old and new Turkish architecture! Our Tour Guide Lutfi, made the tour all the more wonderful and we felt exclusive hopping the lines on all the tour stops!
Be prepared to walk we're comfortable shoes even though things are pretty much in the same area there's a lot to see
Great guy Lutfi is! Thanks for the tour, amazing cisterns. Even though it was raining part of the tour he made it very comfortable and flexible
Guide Lutfi was excellent! Easy to communicate and converse with, very experienced and paced us well according to the group’s preferences. We had enough time to explore and enjoy each of the sights plus time to rest over lunch at an excellent restaurant he recommended. Truly enjoyed the entire day, including the relaxing cruise at the end on an uncrowded ship.
This is a must do activity for anyone visiting Istanbul! Ludviq was such a knowledgeable guide. We could ask anything and he would have an answer. He was funny, interactive, and kept at a good pace. We were able to see all the main highlights in just one day - it was such a comprehensive tour. We ended the day with a Bosporus cruise, which was such a relaxing trip after walking all day and being able to see the beautiful city from the water. I would highly recommend this for anyone, especially if it is your first time.
An awesome day long tour of key Istanbul sites. The tour guide was very friendly and knowledgeable on Roman and ottoman history. He was fairly thorough in explaining each sites histories and interesting stories. The cruise was a great way to end the tour. It was relaxing to view the city European and Asian sides, along with historical stories. Well worth our time and money.
Did the tour around the city! It ended up just being me on the tour even though I booked for a group- just no one else booked the day. But he kept the same arrangements and made sure I saw everything! Would recommend him as a guide for sure!
Lutfi was extremely friendly and welcoming from the introductions. He was VERY knowledgeable and could answer any question we had. He joked around with us to make us feel more like you were taking a stroll with a friend. It was A LOT of walking, but he made sure we had plenty of rest breaks and even recommended a restaurant for lunch that had the BEST lamb shish I've ever had. I'd highly recommend. Word of caution for the entrance fee to the locations: expect to pay around €140 extra to gain entrance to all the stops. Not the company's fault, but still just wanted to give a head's up. It was worth it to gain entry and learn the BTS, however. Read more about - Istanbul Highlights: Small-Group Tour with a Local Expert - https://www.viator.com/tours/Istanbul/Istanbuls-Highlights-with-a-local-guide/d585-328634P1?mcid=56757
Ludviq was a brilliant guide for our tour of Istanbul. Thanks to his organizing the day, pre booking tickets and ability to get us past the main tourist lines we managed to see so much more of the main Istanbul sights than we would have been able to on our own. Knowledgeable about the history of what we were seeing and friendly throughout- would definitely recommend booking with Ludviq!
Lutfi is an excellent guide… knowledgeable, accommodating and flexible. We never felt like we were getting a stock speech: he was able to answer our questions in great detail, and adjust himself to our level of knowledge. Highly recommended!
We had a great tour with Ludwig! My partner and I only had one full day in Istanbul, and so we were looking for a full day for all the highlights. We got that, plus amazing an amazing guide. He’s incredibly knowledgeable and is able to talk about the sights, as well as the modern day Istanbul. We had a great day and recommend this tour, especially if you’re short on time!
What an incredible trip!! Lutfi was amazing, he took his time, thoughtfully shared all details, and booked all our tickets for us. We simply walked up, and walked in, no waiting in ticket lines. The sites are all a must see and he allowed us to linger in spots we wanted more time in!
I had a delightful day of exploring Istanbul's historic spots. Lutfullah was a charming guide who confidently shared historical context and content and took care when transferring from one location to another. I felt I was in good hands and have no hesitation in recommending Lutfullah as a guide.
I was in Istanbul for a brief layover and had just one day to sightsee. This tour was amazing as I hit all the major landmarks. My guide, Lutfullah, was amazing, and I would definitely use him again. He was punctual, knowledgeable, and courteous. Overall, I would highly recommend this tour and guide for anyone.
Lutfi was extremely friendly and welcoming from the introductions. He was VERY knowledgeable and could answer any question we had. He joked around with us to make us feel more like you were taking a stroll with a friend. It was A LOT of walking, but he made sure we had plenty of rest breaks and even recommended a restaurant for lunch that had the BEST lamb shish I've ever had. I'd highly recommend. Word of caution for the entrance fee to the locations: expect to pay around €140 extra to gain entrance to all the stops. Not the company's fault, but still just wanted to give a head's up. It was worth it to gain entry and learn the BTS, however.
What and awesome day we just had with Lutfi! There were only two of us on the tour so we were able to cover A LOT of ground. I felt like we saw most of Istanbul’s major highlights in a day - with time for a leisurely lunch and a 1.5 cruise on the Bosphorus. Lutfi is incredibly knowledgeable, flexible and fun. It was worth every penny booking with him to fast track in to the venues and skip the lines. He made sure we were enjoying ourselves all day - which we were! Highly recommend!
The tour is very interesting, with a perfect use of times and with a personalized guide. I recommended to more friends. Latfi is a great guide with a possitive attitude and always in a good mood to make everybody feel confortable.
Excellent full day tour of Istanbul that hit all the top sites. Ludwig was an outstanding tour guide. He was extremely knowledgeable about the history of each location. It was one of the better historical tours that I've done in a city.
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