Istanbul is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating cities in the world, bursting with rich historical and cultural significance. From its stunning architecture and ancient landmarks to its bustling markets and delicious cuisine, the city has so much to offer. The best way to truly immerse yourself in Istanbul’s beauty and grandeur is by taking a city tour. With so many options to choose from, we’ve rounded up the seven best city tours in Istanbul that are sure to leave you captivated and beguiled by the wonders of this magnificent city. So, let’s explore Istanbul together!

The 7 Best City Tours in Istanbul

1. Hagia Sophia: Entry with Guided Tour
2. Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Tour and Skip The Line with Guide
3. Istanbul: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Small-Group Tour
4. Istanbul: Topkapi Palace Guided Tour and Skip The Line
5. Istanbul: Topkapi Palace & Harem Tour with Entry Ticket
6. Istanbul: Hagia Sophia, Topkapi, and Basilica Combo Tour
7. Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

The 7 Best City Tours in Istanbul

1. Hagia Sophia: Entry with Guided Tour

Explore the remarkable Hagia Sophia on a guided tour with a local expert in Istanbul. Discover the rich history of this iconic site and marvel at its awe-inspiring architecture. This tour includes an entry ticket to the Hagia Sophia and a knowledgeable guide to lead you through the site. Learn about the fascinating story of this ancient monument and its transformation over time. Join us at the Sultanahmet BusForUs stop, where your guide (bearing a flag with the Istanbul Tourist Pass logo) will meet you. Please note that this attraction cannot be accessed by presenting the GetYourGuide voucher and all children will be required to present their passports or ID cards at the entrance to validate their age. Food, drink, and transport are not included in the tour package. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the Hagia Sophia with a local guide and gain a deeper understanding of its significance.

2. Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Tour and Skip The Line with Guide

Discover the stunning Basilica Cistern on a guided tour in Istanbul, complete with skip-the-line entry tickets and an informative commentary from an expert guide. Explore the fascinating history and engineering of this ancient underground wonder as your guide takes you on a journey through its many chambers, and marvel at the famous Medusa Heads that adorn its walls. After your guided tour, take your time to wander around and explore the cistern at your own pace. Please note that a guide is required to enter the site, and entry without a guide is not possible. Meet your guide at the exit gate of the cistern, and look out for the Istanbul Welcome Card flag. Avoid the long queues and book your Basilica Cistern tour now.

3. Istanbul: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Small-Group Tour

Explore the charm and rich history of Istanbul’s Islamic architecture with the Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Small-Group Tour. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you will be taken on a guided walking tour to discover the most fascinating landmarks of the city. Admire the stunning beauty of the world-famous Hagia Sophia, the unique architecture of the Blue Mosque, and the historical significance of the Hippodrome. Afterwards, receive valuable tips from your guide to help you continue exploring Istanbul independently. The tour includes the option of a private or shared walking tour, and port pickup for cruise ship passengers (only if ship details are provided). Visitors should be aware of security measures, and should bring a headscarf as well as avoid wearing shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless shirts. Note that the Blue Mosque will be closed from January to April 2023, and will be replaced with a guided tour of the Suleymaniye Mosque during this time. Join this small-group tour to gain an intimate perspective of Istanbul’s most famous sights.

4. Istanbul: Topkapi Palace Guided Tour and Skip The Line

Explore the Topkapi Palace, the former main residence and administrative headquarters of the Ottoman sultans, on this guided tour with skip-the-line access. Meet your professional English-speaking tour guide in front of the Carpet Museum outside the palace and enjoy priority admission as you skip the line to enter. Your guide will provide a one-hour tour, sharing the story of the palace’s construction and the glory of the Ottoman Era. Marvel at the great architectural beauty of this important monument of the Ottoman Empire and then enjoy some free time in the palace to explore further. Please note that this attraction cannot be visited without a guide and all children will need to present a valid passport to validate their age.

5. Istanbul: Topkapi Palace & Harem Tour with Entry Ticket

Istanbul is a city filled with history and culture, and one of the best ways to experience this is by taking a tour of the famous Topkapi Palace and harem. This tour offers skip-the-line tickets, priority access, and a licensed tour guide to take you through the palace’s complex of buildings, pavilions, and courtyards that once served as a self-contained city in the Ottoman era. You’ll get to explore the treasury, holy relics, imperial kitchens, outer-terraced gardens, and the harem – the private quarters and home of the sultans. Along the way, you’ll learn about Ottoman history and the life of the Sultan’s family. The tour also offers various options for group or private walking tours in English or German, with meeting points that may vary depending on the option booked. Please note that visitors must pass through airport-style security and that Topkapi Palace may close without notice for high-level state visits. Don’t miss out on this chance to experience the glory of Istanbul’s past by taking the Topkapi Palace and Harem Tour with Entry Ticket.

6. Istanbul: Hagia Sophia, Topkapi, and Basilica Combo Tour

Discover the fascinating history of Istanbul with the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi, and Basilica Combo Tour. This tour offers a flexible ticket with fast track entry to the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern. Skip the ticket lines and enjoy tours with a guide at each location. Stay inside the museums as long as you want and listen to an informative audio guide app in Spanish, English, German, Italian, Arabic, Polish, Russian, Chinese, or Turkish. You can choose to visit all three museums in one day or separately on different days. Meeting points vary depending on the tour, so make sure to check the schedule. Don’t forget to bring your headphones and download the audio guide app on your smartphone before your visit. Be immersed in the rich history of Istanbul with the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi, and Basilica Combo Tour.

7. Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

Experience Istanbul’s ancient Basilica Cistern on a skip-the-line guided tour. Walk through the eerie underground chamber built in the 4th century and enlarged in 532 AD that played a significant role in supplying water to the Great Palace. With an English-speaking guide, you will learn about the history of the cistern and hear the mysteries behind the Medusa heads from Greek mythology. As you descend the fifty-two stone steps into the entrance of the cistern, you will hear about the aqueducts that deliver water to this vast storage location. Recognize a scene from James Bond’s From Russia with Love movie as you explore the cistern’s vastness. The tour includes an entry ticket to the Basilica Cistern, a professional guide, and hotel pick-up. Meet your guide at the Sultanahmet BusForUs stop, which is located in front of the Hagia Sophia. Please ensure that you bring your passport or ID card with you, and note that the attraction cannot be visited without the guide. Children will need to present their valid passport to validate their age at the entrance of the museums.

Frequently Asked Questions About Istanbul

Istanbul is a fascinating city that straddles both Europe and Asia. It is a dynamic metropolis with countless attractions, including historic landmarks, modern architecture, and a vibrant culinary scene. Here are some frequently asked questions about Istanbul to help you plan your trip to this beautiful city.

When is the best time to visit Istanbul?

The best time to visit Istanbul is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November). The weather is mild, and the crowds are more manageable compared to the peak season of summer. However, keep in mind that Istanbul can experience sudden changes in weather, so it’s advisable to pack layers and check the weather forecast before your trip.

What are the must-see landmarks in Istanbul?

Istanbul is home to numerous outstanding landmarks, including:

• The Hagia Sophia – an iconic landmark that served as a church, mosque, and now a museum.
• The Blue Mosque – a stunning mosque with six minarets and blue tiles.
• The Topkapi Palace – a vast complex that served as the residence of the Ottoman sultans.
• The Grand Bazaar – a bustling covered market that sells everything from spices to textiles.

What is the transportation system like in Istanbul?

Istanbul has a comprehensive transportation system that includes buses, trams, metro, ferries, and taxis. The most convenient way to travel around the city is by public transportation. You can buy an Istanbulkart, which is a rechargeable prepaid card that you can use on all types of public transportation.

What is the local cuisine like in Istanbul?

Istanbul has a diverse culinary scene that blends traditional Turkish cuisine with modern twists. Some must-try dishes include:

• Doner kebab – a popular street food that consists of meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie.
• Baklava – a sweet pastry made of layers of phyllo dough, nuts, and syrup.
• Manti – Turkish dumplings filled with ground meat and served with yogurt and tomato sauce.
• Meze – a selection of small dishes that are often served as appetizers. Meze can include roasted eggplant dip, stuffed grape leaves, or grilled octopus.

What is the dress code in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a modern and cosmopolitan city, but it’s essential to dress modestly when visiting religious sites such as mosques or churches. Women should cover their shoulders and wear long pants or skirts, while men should wear long pants and avoid shorts. It’s also a good idea to bring a scarf for women to cover their heads.

Is Istanbul safe for tourists?

Istanbul is generally a safe city for tourists, but it’s always advisable to take precautions such as avoiding secluded areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas such as markets or public transportation. As with any travel destination, it’s essential to stay aware of your surroundings and take reasonable care.

Do I need a visa to visit Istanbul?

It depends on your country of origin. Citizens of some countries are granted a visa-free entry for up to 90 days, while others need to apply for a visa in advance. Check with the Turkish embassy or consulate in your country to determine whether you need a visa for your trip to Istanbul.

What is the currency in Istanbul, and can I use credit cards?

The currency in Istanbul is the Turkish lira (TRY). Most hotels, restaurants, and shops in tourist areas accept credit cards, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash for small transactions and in case of emergencies.

What are some lesser-known attractions in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a city full of hidden gems, including

• The Suleymaniye Hamam – a historic Turkish bath that is less touristy than other hamams in the city.
• The Miniaturk – a miniature park that displays a scaled-down version of famous landmarks of Turkey.
• The Princes’ Islands – a group of nine small islands that are a short ferry ride away from Istanbul and offer a peaceful escape from the city.
• The Chora Church – a Byzantine church that features stunning 14th-century mosaics and frescoes.

What language is spoken in Istanbul?

The official language of Istanbul is Turkish, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. You can also find signage in English in many parts of the city.

In conclusion, Istanbul is a vibrant city that offers a blend of traditional and modern experiences. By answering some of the frequently asked questions about Istanbul, we hope that we have helped you plan your trip and make the most of your stay in this beautiful city.