Istanbul Small-Group Old City Tour with Local Guide

* Please note that the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays. Therefore, Sunday tours will be switched to Spice Market visit instead, which will also be the final stop of the tour. Discover Istanbul’s Old City on a small-group walking tour. Discover the mystery of Hagia Sophia and explore Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar. Take in everything by admiring the beauty of the buildings, the priceless history behind each monument, and the undeniable fact that this place was the heart of both Christian and Islamic civilizations at one point. You will feel like you have been in a time travel machine where you have explored all the different periods that shaped Istanbul within the blink of an eye.

1. 1

   German Fountain

   Pass by

   The German Fountain, located in Sultanahmet Square, was a gift from German Emperor Kaiser Wilhelm II in 1901 and is a neo-Byzantine style fountain commemorating his visit to Istanbul, symbolizing the friendship between the Ottoman and German Empires.

2. 2

   Sultanahmet Square

   10 min

   We will see the Ancient Hippodrome and 3 obelisks which are located along the central spine of the ancient Hippodrome in Sultanahmet, just steps away from the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.

3. 3

   Blue Mosque

   40 min

   It’s one of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul and we will take a look at the mosque from inside to see a blend of Ottoman and Byzantine styles, with a massive central dome, elegant arches, and cascading semi-domes.

4. 4

   Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque

   1 hour

   Hagia Sophia, originally built in 537 as a Byzantine cathedral, later converted into a mosque, then a museum, and now a mosque again, is an architectural masterpiece that reflects the rich layers of Istanbul’s religious and imperial history.

5. 5

   Basilica Cistern

   40 min

   Descend beneath Istanbul’s streets to explore a remarkable Byzantine reservoir, where ancient columns, soft lighting, and shimmering reflections create an unforgettable atmosphere.

6. 6

   Grand Bazaar

   1 hour

   The Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı), dating back to the 15th century, is one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets, featuring over 4,000 shops offering everything from carpets and jewelry to antiques and ceramics.

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• Minimum participants to run this tour is 2 people.

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