Best of Istanbul Private Guided Tour

From$100
1 days – 3 days
Istanbul, Turkey

About this activity

Experience Istanbul's rich history and vibrant culture with a private guided tour, customizable over 1 to 3 days, featuring iconic landmarks and personalized insights.

Highlights

  • Explore the majestic Hagia Sophia
  • Wander through the opulent Topkapi Palace
  • Marvel at the intricate Blue Mosque
  • Shop at the bustling Grand Bazaar
  • Cruise along the scenic Bosphorus Strait

Full description

Dive into the heart of Istanbul with a private guided tour that brings the city's storied past and lively present to life. Choose between 1, 2, or 3-day itineraries tailored to your interests. Visit the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, the lavish Topkapi Palace, and the stunning Blue Mosque. Lose yourself in the vibrant Grand Bazaar, a haven for shoppers and culture enthusiasts alike. Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, offering panoramic views of the city's skyline. This tour offers a personalized experience, ensuring you see the best of Istanbul at your own pace.

Included / Excluded

  • Private guided tour of Istanbul's historic sites
  • Flexible 1, 2, or 3-day itinerary options
  • Personalized experience tailored to your interests
  • Meals and beverages

Meeting point

Start Location

German Fountain, Binbirdirek, At Meydanı Cd, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye

Important information

Know before you book

  • Tour availability may vary; check the latest schedule
  • Confirm the duration and itinerary with the tour operator
  • Be aware of any local holidays that might affect site access

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring historic sites
  • Bring a hat and sunscreen for outdoor activities
  • Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated during the tour

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

  • Stroller Accessible
  • Service Animals Allowed
  • Easy Public Transport
  • Infant Seats Available

Good to know

  • The suggested first-day tour is designed as a walking tour, with transportation needed only between the hotel and the Old Town if the hotel is outside old town.
  • The suggested second-day tour can be easily managed by public transportation
  • Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays can be replaced with alternatives such as Turkish And Islamic Arts Museum or Archaeological Museum or Basilica Cistern.
  • Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays and replaced with Spice Market.
  • Dolmabahce Palace is closed on Mondays. Due to museum regulations, live guide service is not available at Dolmabahce Palace.
  • For the tours that start later than 11 am, kindly note that you may have to skip one/a couple of sites as the sites are closed by 7 pm. Your guide will adjust the program according to your priorities.
  • On Fridays, Blue Mosque will be visited in the afternoon.
  • Grand Bazaar and Spice Market is closed during Eid. (Tue, Mar 9, 2027 – Thu, Mar 11, 2027)

Traveler reviews

5.0
10,201 reviews
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A fantastic Istanbul experience with a knowledgeable guide!

An amazing two-day tour of Istanbul with Tugba Kamili, an energetic, friendly, and passionate guide. She is fluent in English and consistently punctual. What really stood out to me was how much history and background she shared while we visited the different landmarks. She didn’t just show me the sights — she genuinely wanted me to understand and learn about the history, culture, and importance behind each place we visited. Thanks to Tugba, I experienced the whole of Istanbul rather than simply seeing its attractions. It felt as though I was living Istanbul rather than just visiting it. She shared the city's rich heritage, vibrant culture, and unique character in a way that made the experience both memorable and meaningful. I would highly recommend both Tugba and the tour agency to anyone looking for an authentic, insightful, and thoroughly enjoyable experience in Istanbul.

smmrazaSep 21, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Wonderful

Amazing experience. Our guide Hilal was so wonderful. We had a great time.

C4668SAnnSep 21, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Fantastic İstanbul experience with amazing tour

Our guide in Istanbul was Özgür Karadeniz. We spent two fantastic days exploring the city with him. He was extremely knowledgeable, patient and friendly. He took the time to listen to our interests and tailored our itinerary perfectly, always happy to answer all of our questions.

180ozlemgSep 20, 2026TRIPADVISOR

A great day

Consistently very informative and very entertaining excursion led by a very friendly, relaxed, and professionally competent tour guide. All additional questions asked were answered. Contact between us and the tour guide was established the evening before. On the day of the event, we received a precisely described meeting point. The excursion was able to start on time. Even within the seven-hour tour, a break in a restaurant felt really good. The tea and Turkish coffee helped us relax for a bit. 👍 All the sights are highly recommended. Thank you very much.

H8526SVthomasdSep 20, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Amazing

Great experience, tour guide was amazing.

Vacation29913532526Sep 20, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Additional information

If one of the mosques or museums is not visited, Basilica Cistern will be visited as a replacement. On Fridays, Hagia Sophia and/or Blue Mosque will be visited in the afternoon. Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays can be replaced with alternatives such as Turkish And Islamic Arts Museum or Archaeological Museum or Basilica Cistern. Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays can be replaced with Spice Market. Dolmabahce Palace is closed on Mondays. Due to museum regulations, live guide service is not available at Dolmabahce Palace. For the tours that start later than 11 am, kindly note that you may have to skip one/a couple of sites as the sites are closed by 7 pm. Your guide will adjust the program according to your priorities. Grand Bazaar and Spice Market is closed during Eid. (March 30, 31, April 1, June 6, 7, 8, 9 in 2025) Openings of museums may be affected from National Holidays.