Main Museums and Palaces of Istanbul with a Historian Guide
About this experience
The magnificent Blue Mosque, the monumental Hagia Sophia cathedral, the luxurious Topkapi Palace, the mysterious Basilica Cistern, the vibrant Grand Bazaar - in one route we have gathered the main historical monuments of Istanbul to show the capital in all its splendor. This will be a private tour just for you, at a comfortable pace and with detailed explanations from the guide.
What to expect
Topkapi Palace
You will visit the main palace of the Ottoman sultans until the mid-19th century. You will see precious gems, weapons, ceramics, Muslim and Christian relics. You will stroll through the green garden and admire the views of the bay and the Sea of Marmara. The guide will talk about who initiated the construction of the harem, who was Roxelana, and what happened to her sons.
Hagia Sophia Cathedral
The history of this masterpiece of Byzantine architecture spans one and a half millennia. You will learn who and when created it, and how the cathedral's complex fate unfolded.
Blue Mosque
It is considered the most important monument of Islamic architecture. The guide will explain the mix of styles in the mosque. You will learn about the whims of Sultan Ahmed, who ordered the mosque's construction, and the conflicts that arose during its creation.
Basilica Cistern
You will be amazed by the colossal size of this underground water reservoir. You will feel as if you are in a flooded mysterious palace. You will also see the head of the Medusa Gorgon, find out which movies were filmed in the Basilica, and which celebrities have visited it.
Byzantine Hippodrome
On the main square of Istanbul, you will learn many interesting facts about gladiators, examine the Greek columns, the Egyptian obelisk, the serpent column, and the gold-decorated fountain.
Grand Bazaar
On the oldest market in Constantinople, the guide will help you navigate local prices, teach you how to bargain, and show you the best places to buy souvenirs.
Upon your request, we can adjust the program, add any palaces, museums, mosques, or a walk along the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn to the route. We can take a break for Turkish coffee and lunch.
Organizational details
- Visiting the museums is possible from 09:00 to 16:00. We will take you to them without queuing.
- Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays
- We can help you book tickets in advance with a 100% prepayment
- The tour is available for any number of participants. We can arrange transfers from the airport and back. Details - in private correspondence.
- Take scarves and socks with you to visit mosques, as well as a document confirming the age of children
- Your tour will be conducted by one of the licensed guides from our team
Additional fees apply:
- Topkapi Palace ticket - 50 euros/person
- Basilica Cistern ticket - 23 euros/person. Children under 6 are free.
- Hagia Sophia Cathedral ticket - 25 euros/person
- In a group of more than 6 participants - rental of 1 pair of headphones/around 90 lira
- Food and drinks - optional
