How to Plan Your Private Istanbul Tour in 1, 2 or 3 Days

Are you planning to explore Istanbul at your leisure with a knowledgeable, professional local tour guide? Then, a private tour of this wonderful city is just perfect for you. This tour offers the convenience and comfort of exploring Istanbul’s most famous tourist attractions without any hassle.

Here’s how to plan your Private Istanbul Tour in 1, 2, or 3 days.

Overview

This Private Istanbul Tour offers you skip the line priority to buy museum tickets and transportation. You can choose between one, two, or three-day tours depending on the length of your stay in Istanbul. This tour is private, meaning you will get undivided attention from your tour guide. You will start your journey with a visit to the Hagia Sophia Museum, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.

What’s Included?

• Private Tour
• Professional Local Tour Guide
• Skip the Line Priority to buy Museum Tickets
• Museum/Attraction Tickets
• Transportation
• Lunch

Meeting and Pickup

You can head directly to the meeting point, which is Alemdar Yerebatan Cd. No:1 D:3 34110 Fatih/İstanbul Türkiye, or request a pickup. The tour guide meets you at central European side hotels or Galata Port/ Istanbul Port. Suppose your hotel is not centrally located or is on the Asian side. In that case, the meeting point with the tour guide is at the front of the Basilica Cistern Museum Entry.

Itinerary

This tour includes visits to several notable places, including the Hagia Sophia Museum, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.

Basilica Cistern Museum

You will start your journey at the Basilica Cistern Museum. A subterranean wonder beneath the streets of Istanbul, the ancient Basilica Cistern is a beautifully preserved palace-sized underground waterway. The spacious chamber’s columns, vaults, and arches are without a doubt staggering in terms of sheer scale and splendor.

Hagia Sophia Museum

After visiting the Basilica Cistern Museum, your tour guide will take you to the Hagia Sophia Museum, a massive Roman Arena transformed into a cathedral by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian. It served as an important religious center for over 900 years until the Ottomans turned it into a mosque in the 15th century, and in 1935, it became a museum.

Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque or the Sultan Ahmed Mosque is well-known for its stunningly exquisite Iznik tiles and six minarets. This impressive mosque was built between 1609 and 1616 during the reign of Ahmed I in the magnificent Ottoman Empire.

Topkapi Palace

Next on the itinerary is the Topkapi Palace, one of the oldest and largest palaces in the world. It once served as the home to the Ottoman Sultans and their Harems. It has several courtyards and many different sections converted into museums. You will witness the treasure room, famous kitchens, and lots more.

End Point

This tour ends back at the meeting point.

Pickup Details

Tour guide meets you at central European side hotels or Galata Port/ Istanbul Port. If your hotel is not centrally located, or it is on the Asian side, the meeting point with the tour guide is the front of the Basilica Cistern Museum Entry.

What to Expect:

• Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
• This tour is not wheelchair accessible
• Please note that Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays
• Annual closing dates of all museums and bazaars in Istanbul as follows:
• New Year
• Ramadan Festival
• Sacrifice Eid/Festi

How to Book Your Tour

To book your Private Istanbul Tour in 1, 2, or 3 days, visit viator.com and make your reservation today.

We hope this guide helps you plan your Private Istanbul Tour and makes your journey unforgettable.

An Insider’s Guide to Istanbul: Beyond the Tourist Spots

Istanbul is a city of boundless energy and ancient allure, bustling with history and culture. It is a melting pot of cultures and traditions, the gateway between East and West, and a city that never sleeps. While the tourist spots like Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace are certainly worth visiting, there’s so much more to experience in Istanbul beyond the crowds. Here are some insider’s tips for discovering the hidden gems of Istanbul, savouring the city’s unique tastes, delving into its rich history and culture, and creating unforgettable memories.

Local Attractions: Discover Istanbul’s Hidden Gems

Istanbul has plenty of secret corners that most tourists don’t know about. One such hidden gem is the Pera Palace Hotel, a grand 19th-century hotel that hosted many famous writers and intellectuals like Ernest Hemingway and Agatha Christie. Another must-visit spot is the Valide Han Market, an Ottoman-era market that still preserves its old-world charm. For a relaxing escape from the city’s chaos, head to the tranquil Emirgan Park, known for its picturesque landscapes and tulip gardens.

Dining Spots: Indulge in the Unique Flavours of Istanbul

Istanbul’s food scene is as diverse as its culture, with a variety of flavours and spices that reflect the city’s rich history. To savour traditional Ottoman cuisine, head to Asitane Restaurant, located in the former Imperial Palace kitchens. For a taste of the city’s street food, try the famous simit – a kind of sesame-covered bread ring – from any of the street vendors. And don’t miss out on the iconic Turkish dessert, baklava, from the famous Karaköy Güllüoğlu baklava shop.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse Yourself in Istanbul’s Vibrant Culture

Istanbul offers plenty of cultural experiences that are unique to the city. Watch the traditional Ottoman-style oil wrestling – a national sport – at the Kirkpinar Festival in July. Visit the Istanbul Archaeology Museum to explore the city’s ancient past and admire its impressive collection of artefacts. Get a glimpse of Istanbul’s vibrant art scene at the Istanbul Modern Art Museum, which showcases contemporary Turkish art.

Local History: Uncover Istanbul’s Fascinating Past

Istanbul’s history is rich and varied, spanning centuries of reign by the Byzantine, Roman, and Ottoman empires. One historic must-see spot is the Galata Tower that offers a panoramic view of Istanbul and served as a lighthouse during the Ottoman Empire. The Basilica Cistern, an underground wonder, is also a must-visit for its ancient water system and beautifully illuminated chambers. For a unique glimpse of Istanbul’s past, visit the Kariye Museum, a Byzantine Church turned museum that’s adorned with intricate frescoes and mosaics.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Experiences in Istanbul

Want to take the road less travelled? Take a ferry ride along the Bosphorus Strait, which separates Europe and Asia, to see Istanbul from a different perspective. Visit the historic Balat neighbourhood, once a thriving Jewish community, now home to colourful old Ottoman houses and bohemian cafes. And for a truly unique experience, try the traditional Turkish hamam (bathhouse) for a soothing massage and a glimpse into the city’s long-standing customs.

In conclusion, Istanbul is a city of contrasts and surprises, with endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. Whether you have one, two, or three days in Istanbul, this insider’s guide is sure to help you savour the city’s unique flavours, explore its hidden corners, and experience its vibrant culture. Don’t forget to share your adventures with your friends and family, so that they can also fall in love with the magical city of Istanbul!