Historic Off the Beaten Path Tour of the Real Istanbul

Begin your tour at the Hippodrome, where thousands of spectators once marveled at chariot games. Your day includes travels on foot and public transportation, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Travel from ancient to medieval eras with stops at the Serefiye Cistern and the Grand Bazaar, where you can take a Turkish coffee break and haggle for souvenirs in over 4,000 different shops.

Next, you’ll head to Istanbul University and an old book market, and then get a peek at Suleymaniye, considered the loveliest of the Ottoman-era mosques. After a stop at the cavernous Spice Market, veer off the tourist track in the city's Old Greek and Jewish neighborhoods, where you’ll see centuries-old wooden mansions. Finally, get views of Istanbul from the water with a scenic ferry ride across the river.

• Tick off the main sights and also explore under-the-radar neighborhoods
• Get a rare peek at Old Greek and Jewish quarters, plus Istanbul University
• Perfect for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a deeper cultural exploration

Istanbul is one of the world’s most spectacular cities, a former Ottoman and Byzantine capital that’s now a vibrant modern metropolis. Most visitors stick to well-trodden highlights, but you’ll visit under-the-radar sights and hear illuminating commentary during this in-depth tour—while still ticking off the city’s top historical attractions. You’ll haggle for spices, chug a cup of Turkish coffee, and sail the Bosphorus, leaving all the navigation to your guide. 

Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Not wheelchair accessible
Meeting point is Pudding Shop Lale Restaurant to departure the walking tour
Minimum capacity is 2 persons. We reserve the right to cancel a tour due to insufficient reservations. We will do all we can to reschedule your tour or a refund will be provided.
A maximum of 10 people per booking
Our tours are done by public transportation and walking so if you have any serious mobility issues, we advise you to book a private tour
Parents of children under 6 years are advised to book a private tour
On Religious Fests Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar are closed; May 13th,14th, 15th, July 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23th in 2021
Stroller accessible
Near public transportation
No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers