Handpicked Tours and Activity in Istanbul
Private Guide and Tours in Istanbul
POPULAR HOTELS IN ISTANBUL
Istanbul:
Once known as Constantinople and Byzantium, Istanbul’s position on the Silk Road has made it an economic, historical and cultural centre, serving as an imperial capital multiple times for the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires. There’s a lot to explore with the Asian and European sides of the city. The old walled neighbourhood of Sultanahmet is home to some of the most recognizable sights, such as the Hagia Sophia, with its dazzling mosaics and the enormous dome that had covered this space since the sixth century, when it was a Roman basilica. You’ll also want to experience Topkapi Palace, which contains lavish interiors and many Christian and Islamic relics, the Blue Mosque, and the giant underground Basilica Cistern. City views of the river suggest the next step: A Bosphorous cruise, navigating along the vast expanse of water that unites two continents, provides a beautiful way to see the banks of the Golden Horn. To delve into the local culture and help with haggling, visitors can take a private tour of the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar, containing some of the wealthiest smells in the world. For more extended visits, tours from Istanbul can take visitors far and wide to the remarkable rocky landscapes of Cappadocia, the ruins of the Greco-Roman city of Ephesus, and even the WWI sites of the Gallipoli Peninsula.
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Istanbul Classics Istanbul City Tour
POPULAR FLIGHTS FROM ISTANBUL
Istanbul City Tour
- Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your hotel, and then meet your experienced and certified private guide in the hotel lobby. Prepare for an unforgettable full-day city tour of Istanbul, Turkey’s cultural and historical heart.
- First, you’ll visit the Blue Mosque, one of the most famous landmarks of Istanbul. Built-in the early 17th century, the mosque’s six minarets and stunning blue tiles have made it a symbol of the city. As you walk inside, you’ll be awed by the grandeur of the dome and the beautiful stained-glass windows. Your guide will explain the history and significance of the mosque and its importance to Istanbul’s Islamic culture.
- Next, you’ll head to the Hagia Sophia, an architectural masterpiece, former cathedral and mosque converted into a museum. This iconic monument has stood the test of time for over 1500 years and is considered one of the greatest works of Byzantine architecture. Inside, you’ll be amazed by the stunning mosaics and frescoes, intricate designs, and grandeur of the central dome. Your guide will take you through the various sections of the building, explaining the historical significance and cultural importance of this magnificent structure.
- Your next stop is the Topkapi Palace, a former residence of Ottoman sultans, which sits atop a hill overlooking the Golden Horn. The palace complex comprises four central courtyards, several smaller buildings, and a stunning collection of Islamic art and artefacts, including the famous Topkapi dagger and the Spoonmaker’s Diamond. Your guide will lead you through the different sections of the palace, revealing the history and fascinating stories behind each exhibit.
- After lunch at a local restaurant serving traditional Turkish cuisines, such as lamb kebab or vegetarian stuffed eggplant, you’ll head to the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets. Here, you’ll experience the vibrant atmosphere of Istanbul’s bazaar culture as you stroll through the winding alleys and haggle with local shopkeepers. Your guide will give you tips on bargain for the best deals and explain the unique goods sold in the Bazaar, from traditional Turkish rugs to exotic spices and jewellery.
- Lastly, you’ll visit the Spice Market, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, one of Istanbul’s oldest and most famous markets. The market’s winding alleys are filled with various herbs, spices, and sweets, all displayed in beautiful arrangements. Your guide will introduce you to the variety of spices and their culinary uses in Turkish cuisine, as well as the history and cultural significance of the market itself.
- The Turkish bath is a traditional spa experience enjoyed for centuries. It involves a relaxing steam bath, followed by a full-body scrub and massage, leaving you feeling rejuvenated and refreshed. You may attend a traditional Turkish cultural show featuring music, dance, and folk songs in the evening or unwind at a Turkish bath or hammam.
- After a day filled with unforgettable sights, sounds, and experiences, you’ll return to your hotel for a well-deserved rest, dreaming of the wonders that await you on your next day in Istanbul.
4-day and 3-night Istanbul program, with a private guide. Your certified tour guide will accompany you throughout the tour, providing expert commentary and insights on the city's history, culture, cuisine, and attractions.
4-day and 3-night Istanbul program, with a private guide. Your certified tour guide will accompany you throughout the tour, providing expert commentary and insights on the city’s history, culture, cuisine, and attractions.
Day 1:
- Morning: Meet your private guide at your hotel, and start the day with a visit to the Hagia Sophia, one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. Your guide will provide insights into the building’s fascinating history and significance.
- Afternoon: Visit the Blue Mosque, another stunning example of Istanbul’s rich architectural heritage. Stroll through the nearby Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets.
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to a conventional Turkish bath for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
Day 2:
- Morning: Take a boat tour along the Bosphorus Strait, which divides Istanbul between Europe and Asia. See the city’s stunning skyline from a new perspective.
- Afternoon: Visit the Topkapi Palace, the former home of the Ottoman sultans. Your guide will provide personalized commentary on the palace’s history and significance.
- Evening: Enjoy a sunset dinner cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, with stunning views of the city’s skyline at night.
Day 3:
- Morning: Visit the Dolmabahce Palace, a stunning example of Ottoman Baroque architecture. Explore the palace’s lush gardens and ornate interiors.
- Afternoon: Visit the Istanbul Archaeological Museums, home to some of the world’s most significant ancient artefacts. Your guide will provide expert commentary on the museum’s highlights.
- Evening: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Istanbul with a guided tour of the city’s best bars and nightclubs.
Day 4:
- Morning: Visit the Basilica Cistern, a mysterious underground water reservoir dating back to the Byzantine era. Explore the cistern’s eerie beauty.
- Afternoon: Take a leisurely walk through the charming neighbourhood of Balat, with its colourful houses and stunning views of the Golden Horn.
- Evening: Farewell dinner at a top-rated restaurant featuring traditional Turkish cuisine and live music.
This itinerary is just a sample and can be customized to suit your preferences and budget. Your certified tour guide will be able to provide recommendations and suggestions based on your interests and preferences, ensuring that you have a truly memorable day and night program in Istanbul.
Sample itinerary for a VIP de lux 4-day and three nights Istanbul day and night program with a private guide, hotels, restaurants, and a limousine:
VIP de lux 4-day and three nights Istanbul day and night program with a private guide, hotels, restaurants, and a limousine:
Day 1:
- Arrive at Istanbul Atatürk Airport, where you will be greeted by your private chauffeur in a luxury limousine and taken to your hotel.
- Check-in at the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet, located in the heart of the old city, within walking distance of major attractions like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace.
- After some rest, meet your certified private tour guide, who will take you on a walking tour of the Sultanahmet area, including the Hippodrome, the German Fountain, and the Basilica Cistern.
- Enjoy a private dinner at Mikla, one of the best restaurants in Istanbul, offering panoramic views of the city from the 20th floor of the Marmara Pera Hotel.
Day 2:
- After breakfast at the hotel, meet your private tour guide and driver in a luxury limousine and head to the European side of Istanbul.
- Visit the Dolmabahçe Palace, a stunning 19th-century palace that served as the administrative centre of the Ottoman Empire.
- Have lunch at the elegant Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul, a luxury hotel housed in a restored 19th-century Ottoman palace.
- Continue your tour with a visit to the Istanbul Modern Art Museum, which showcases contemporary Turkish and international art.
- After some rest at the hotel, enjoy a private cruise along the Bosphorus, admiring the city’s skyline and iconic landmarks from the water.
- Have dinner at the trendy Nusr-Et Steakhouse, owned by the famous Turkish chef Nusret Gökçe, also known as “Salt Bae.”
Day 3:
- Start your day with a visit to the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, with over 4,000 shops selling everything from jewellery to textiles.
- Have lunch at the elegant and historic Pandeli Restaurant inside the Spice Bazaar, which has been serving traditional Ottoman cuisine since 1901.
- After lunch, visit the Suleymaniye Mosque, one of Istanbul’s most impressive and prominent mosques, designed by the famous Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan.
- In the evening, enjoy a private belly dancing and Turkish folk music show at the famous Hodjapasha Cultural Center, housed in a restored 550-year-old Ottoman Hamam.
- Have dinner at the exclusive Ulus 29, a fine-dining restaurant in a hilltop mansion overlooking the Bosphorus.
Day 4:
- After breakfast at the hotel, visit the Topkapi Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site and former residence of the Ottoman sultans, which now houses an impressive collection of artefacts and artwork.
- Have lunch at the iconic Maiden’s Tower, a small islet in the Bosphorus with a Turkish and international cuisine restaurant.
- End your tour with a visit to the Hagia Sophia, one of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks and a symbol of the city’s rich history and culture.
- Departure to Istanbul Atatürk Airport, your private chauffeur will be waiting to take you to your flight in a luxury limousine.
Note: This is just a sample itinerary and can be customized to suit your preferences and interests.
10-day Istanbul and Turkey tour program with a private guide, driver, and vehicle based on your requirements
10-day Turkey tour program with a private guide, driver, and vehicle-based on your requirements:
Day 1: Istanbul
- Arrive at Istanbul airport and transfer to the hotel.
- Afternoon visits to the Topkapi Palace, the residence of Ottoman Sultans for almost 400 years.
- Visit the Grand Bazaar for shopping.
- Dinner at a local restaurant with Turkish cuisine.
- Overnight stay in Istanbul.
Day 2: Istanbul
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Visit the Hagia Sophia, an architectural masterpiece, former church, mosque, and now museum.
- Visit the Blue Mosque, famous for its blue Iznik tiles.
- Lunch at a local restaurant with Ottoman cuisine.
- Visit the Basilica Cistern, an underground water reservoir built during Byzantine.
- Dinner at a local restaurant with Turkish cuisine.
- Overnight stay in Istanbul.
Day 3: Bursa
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Departure for Bursa, the first capital city of the Ottoman Empire.
- Visit the Green Mosque and Tomb, an example of Ottoman architecture and craftsmanship.
- Visit the Grand Mosque, also known as the Ulu Mosque.
- Lunch at a local restaurant with traditional Bursa cuisine.
- Visit the historic covered market, where you can buy conventional Turkish souvenirs.
- Dinner at a local restaurant with Turkish cuisine.
- Overnight stay in Bursa.
Day 4: Canakkale
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Departure for Canakkale.
- Visit the ancient city of Troy, famous for the Trojan War and immortalized in Homer’s epic poem, the Iliad.
- Lunch at a local restaurant with traditional Aegean cuisine.
- Visit the Gallipoli peninsula and the ANZAC Cove, where the ANZAC troops landed during World War I.
- Dinner at a local restaurant with Turkish cuisine.
- Overnight stay in Canakkale.
Day 5: Izmir
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Departure for Izmir.
- Visit the ancient city of Pergamon, famous for its library and the Temple of Trajan.
- Lunch at a local restaurant with traditional Aegean cuisine.
- Visit the Acropolis and the Asclepion, a healing centre dedicated to the god of medicine, Asclepius.
- Dinner at a local restaurant with Turkish cuisine.
- Overnight stay in Izmir.
Day 6: Ephesus
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Departure for Ephesus, one of the most well-preserved ancient cities.
- Visit the House of the Virgin Mary, where she is said to have lived her last years.
- Lunch at a local restaurant with traditional Aegean cuisine.
- Visit the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
- Dinner at a local restaurant with Turkish cuisine.
- Overnight stay in Kusadasi.
Day 7: Pamukkale
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Departure for Pamukkale, famous for its white travertine terraces and hot springs.
- Visit the Hierapolis ancient city famous for its Roman theatre and the Necropolis.
- Lunch at a local restaurant with traditional Turkish cuisine.
- Free time to relax and enjoy the hot springs.
- Dinner at a local restaurant with Turkish cuisine.
- Overnight stay in Pamukkale.
Day 8: Antalya
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Departure for Antalya, a beautiful city located on the Mediterranean coast.
- Visit the Old Town and the Hadrian’s Gate, an ancient Roman gateway.
- Lunch at a local restaurant with traditional
Day 6: Cappadocia
After breakfast at the hotel, you will check out and head to Cappadocia. Along the way, you will stop at Sultanhani Caravanserai, an ancient roadside inn that once provided shelter and supplies for caravans of traders and travellers passing through the region. Once in Cappadocia, you will check into your hotel and have time to rest or explore the local area.
In the evening, you will treat to a traditional Turkish dinner at a local restaurant, where you can try some of the region’s famous dishes, such as pottery kebab, stuffed grape leaves, and Turkish delight.
Day 7: Cappadocia
Today you will explore the fascinating landscape of Cappadocia. First, you will visit the Goreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site with numerous rock-cut churches and monasteries adorned with frescoes dating back to the 10th century.
Next, you will visit Uchisar Castle, a natural fortress carved into the rock that offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
In the afternoon, you can take a hot air balloon ride over the unique landscape of Cappadocia (optional, at an additional cost).
Day 8: Pamukkale
After breakfast, you will leave your hotel and head to Pamukkale. Along the way, you will stop at Konya, the ancient capital of the Seljuk Empire and the birthplace of the famous Sufi philosopher and poet Rumi. Here, you will visit the Mevlana Museum, which houses Rumi’s mausoleum and a collection of artefacts related to his life and teachings.
You will arrive in Pamukkale and check into your hotel in the evening.
Day 9: Pamukkale
Today, you will explore the otherworldly landscape of Pamukkale, known for its terraced pools of mineral-rich water and white travertine terraces. You will also visit the ancient city of Hierapolis, founded in the 2nd century BC and home to numerous ancient ruins and historical sites.
You will enjoy a delicious Turkish dinner at a local restaurant in the evening. You can try some of the region’s specialities, such as lamb kebab, stuffed peppers, and baklava.
Day 10: Istanbul
After breakfast, you will check out of your hotel and head back to Istanbul. Depending on the number of guests and the vehicle size, you may stop at other points of interest.
Once back in Istanbul, you will check into your hotel and have some free time to explore the city or relax before departing the next day.
Day 11: Departure
After breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your 10-day tour of Turkey.
VIP deluxe 10-day Turkey tour program with a private guide, private driver, and a luxury vehicle
VIP deluxe 10-day Turkey tour program with a private guide, private driver, and a luxury vehicle:
Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul
- Meet and greet at the airport with your private guide and driver
- Private transfer to your luxury hotel in Istanbul
- Welcome dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Istanbul
Day 2: Istanbul
- Private tour of the iconic Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia
- Visit the Topkapi Palace and its Harem section
- Lunch at a top-rated restaurant
- Explore the Grand Bazaar for shopping
- Dinner at one of the best restaurants in Istanbul
Day 3: Istanbul
- Visit the Spice Market
- Private boat tour along the Bosphorus
- Lunch at a fish restaurant with stunning views of the Bosphorus
- Visit the Chora Museum
- Dinner at a top-rated restaurant
Day 4: Cappadocia
- Private transfer to the airport for a flight to Cappadocia
- Private tour of the Goreme Open Air Museum
- Lunch at a top-rated restaurant
- Visit the Kaymakli Underground City
- Dinner at one of the best restaurants in Cappadocia
Day 5: Cappadocia
- Early morning hot air balloon ride over the unique landscapes of Cappadocia.
- Visit the Pasabag Valley and Avanos pottery workshop
- Lunch at a top-rated restaurant
- Visit the Uchisar Castle and Pigeon Valley
- Dinner at one of the best restaurants in Cappadocia
Day 6: Ephesus and Kusadasi
- Private transfer to the airport for a flight to Izmir
- Private tour of the ancient city of Ephesus
- Lunch at a top-rated restaurant
- Visit the House of the Virgin Mary
- Private transfer to your luxury hotel in Kusadasi
- Dinner at one of the best restaurants in Kusadasi
Day 7: Pamukkale
- Private tour of the UNESCO-listed Pamukkale and Hierapolis
- Lunch at a top-rated restaurant
- Private transfer back to your luxury hotel in Kusadasi
- Dinner at one of the best restaurants in Kusadasi
Day 8: Bodrum
- Private transfer to Bodrum
- Visit the Bodrum Castle and Museum of Underwater Archaeology
- Lunch at a top-rated restaurant
- Private transfer to your luxury hotel in Bodrum
- Dinner at one of the best restaurants in Bodrum
Day 9: Bodrum
- Private yacht tour along the Bodrum Peninsula
- Lunch on board with a personal chef and waitstaff
- Swim in secluded coves and bays
- Dinner at one of the best restaurants in Bodrum
Day 10: Departure
- Private transfer to the airport for your departure flight
This VIP deluxe tour program includes the best hotels and restaurants and a luxury vehicle with a private driver in each location. Your private guide will provide expert commentary and insights on each destination’s history, culture, and culinary specialities.
Tour program 7 days in the Balkans with a licensed tour guide, driver, and transportation
Tour program in the Balkans with a licensed tour guide, driver, and transportation:
Day 1: Istanbul, Turkey
- Arrive in Istanbul, check the hotel, and have a welcome dinner.
Day 2: Sofia, Bulgaria
After breakfast at the hotel, you’ll board the bus and travel to the vibrant capital city of Bulgaria, Sofia. Along the way, your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating insights into the history and culture of the region.
Upon arrival in Sofia, you’ll visit the impressive Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world. This stunning cathedral features beautiful murals, intricate mosaics, and a breathtaking gold-plated dome. Your guide will explain the significance of this important religious site and its history.
Next, you’ll visit the National Palace of Culture, an iconic landmark of Sofia that hosts various cultural events throughout the year. This massive complex features a stunning glass façade, modern architecture, and impressive fountains. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the interior of the building and learn more about its fascinating history and cultural significance.
Afterwards, you’ll head to the Church of St. George, a beautiful medieval Orthodox church in the city’s heart. This historic site features stunning frescoes, intricate architecture, and a rich history dating back to the 4th century. Your guide will provide insight into this important landmark’s cultural and historical significance.
In the evening, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, sampling some of the most authentic and delicious Bulgarian cuisines. You’ll have the chance to try traditional dishes such as banitsa (a savoury pastry filled with cheese and spinach), karma (a hearty meat and vegetable stew), and moussaka (a layered dish made with eggplant, potatoes, and ground meat).
- After dinner, you can explore the city on your own or return to the hotel for a restful night’s sleep in preparation for another exciting day of exploring the Balkan region.
Day 3: Skopje, North Macedonia
- Travel to Skopje, and visit the Old Bazaar, Stone Bridge, and the Skopje Fortress.
Day 4: Pristina, Kosovo
- Travel to Pristina, and visit the Ethnographic Museum, the National Museum of Kosovo, and the Sultan Mehmet Fatih Mosque.
Day 5: Tirana, Albania
- Travel to Tirana, the National Historical Museum, the Et’hem Bey Mosque, and the Skanderbeg Square.
Day 6: Kotor, Montenegro
- Travel to Kotor, visit the Kotor Fortress, the St. Tryphon Cathedral, and the Maritime Museum.
Day 7: Dubrovnik, Croatia
- Travel to Dubrovnik, visit the Old Town, the Rector’s Palace, and the Dubrovnik Cathedral.
Day 8: Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Travel to Mostar, visit the Old Bridge, the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque, and the Old Bazaar.
Day 9: Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Travel to Sarajevo, and visit the Tunnel of Hope, the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, and the Latin Bridge.
Day 10: Belgrade, Serbia
- Travel to Belgrade, and visit the Belgrade Fortress, St. Sava Temple, and the Nikola Tesla Museum.
Day 11: Novi Sad, Serbia
- Travel to Novi Sad, visit the Petrovaradin Fortress, the Museum of Vojvodina, and the Fruska Gora Monastery.
Day 12: Budapest, Hungary
- Travel to Budapest, visit the Fisherman’s Bastion, the Matthias Church, and the Hungarian Parliament Building.
Day 13: Bucharest, Romania
- Travel to Bucharest, and visit the Palace of the Parliament, the Romanian Athenaeum, and the Village Museum.
Day 14: Istanbul, Turkey
- Travel back to Istanbul and depart for home.
During the tour, we will stay in different 4-star hotels and enjoy each city’s most famous culinary specialities. Our licensed tour guide will give us the most important historical and cultural information about each town.