Skip-The-Line:1 or 2 Days Private Istanbul Guided Tour

based on 33 reviews

Duration:7 hours to 14 hours (approx.)
Location: Istanbul, Turkey

From $75

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ADULT (Age : 8 to 99)

Free Cancellation

Upto 24 hours in Advance.

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

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See the sights of Istanbul that most interest you on a customized, 1or 2 -days tour with a private. guide. Marvel at monuments from the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, such as Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern.

*Private guide means a more personalized experience
*Option to select a 1 or 2-day private tour by walking or VAN
*Book an included tour vehicle for door-to-door service
*Explore the local streets on a walking tour of the city
*Customize the itinerary according to your schedule.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

WHAT TO EXPECT

1.
Unique ephesus tour guide wii meet you at your hotel or port
2. Hagia Sophia Mosque
Hagia Sophia is a historic mosque and former Byzantine cathedral located in Istanbul, Turkey. It was originally built as a cathedral in the 6th century AD and later converted into a mosque in the 15th century. In 1935, it was converted into a museum and opened to the public. In 2020, the Turkish government announced that the Hagia Sophia would be converted back into a mosque, sparking controversy and criticism from some international leaders and religious groups.
3. Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is a historic mosque located in Istanbul, Turkey. It was built in the early 17th century under the rule of the Ottoman Empire. The mosque is renowned for its blue tiles and six minarets, which give it its nickname. The interior of the mosque is adorned with intricate tile work, calligraphy, and painted decorations. The Blue Mosque is still used as a place of worship and is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world.
4. Hippodrome
The Hippodrome of Constantinople was a public space in ancient Constantinople (present-day Istanbul, Turkey) that was used for chariot races and other public events. It was built in the 4th century AD by the Roman Emperor Septimius Severus, and was expanded and embellished by later emperors. The Hippodrome was rectangular in shape, and could hold up to 100,000 spectators. It featured statues, obelisks, and monuments from various parts of the Roman Empire, including the famous Serpent Column and the Obelisk of Theodosius. The Hippodrome was in use until the 5th century AD, after which it fell into decline and was eventually abandoned. Today, the Hippodrome is a popular tourist attraction, and some of the ancient monuments that once stood in the Hippodrome can still be seen.
5. Basilica Cistern
The Basilica Cistern (Βασιλική Κινστέρνα) is the largest underground cistern of Byzantine Constantinople. It was built under the Basilica located west of Hagia Sophia. Also known by its Turkish name Yerebatan Sarayı (“Sunken Palace”), it is one of the major tourist attractions of modern Istanbul. The Basilica Cistern, along with churches like Hagia Sophia, gives an impression of the massive construction projects once undertaken by Justinian I (527-565). The Basilica Cistern is the only remaining structure of an important complex of buildings in the vicinity during Late Antique Constantinople. The cistern gets its name from the Basilica, often known as the Basilica Stoa or the Basilica of Illus, once located above it. Nothing is known about the site before Byzantium was inaugurated as Constantine’s capital. It was located west of the Augustaion and Hagia Sophia, and northwest of the Milion, the milestone at the beginning of the Mese.
6. Topkapi Palace
Topkapi Palace is a historical palace in Istanbul, Turkey that was the primary residence of the Ottoman sultans for 400 years. The palace was built in 1459 and was the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire during the height of its power. The palace complex consists of several buildings and courtyards, including the Imperial Harem, the Divan (Council) Hall, and the Treasury, which contains valuable items such as the Spoonmaker's Diamond. Topkapi Palace is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
7. Bosphorus Strait
The Bosphorus Strait defines Istanbul. It is the divide between Europe and Asia, and the main connection between the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara. Dotted with parks and elaborate Ottoman mansions, including Dolmabahce Palace, and spanned by three intercontinental bridges, the Bosphorus is the veritable heart of the city.
8. Galata Tower
Rising high above its namesake neighborhood, Istanbul’s Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) dates back to the Genoese presence in Constantinople in the 14th century. An elevator takes you up to a viewing platform located under the roof, which offers panoramic views of the Old City peninsula and Beyoglu neighborhood.
9. Taksim Square
Taksim Square (Taksim Meydani), Istanbul’s main modern hub, is located at the end of the pedestrian thoroughfare Istiklal Avenue (Istiklal Caddesi). A popular meeting place, Taksim Square is anchored by the Monument of the Republic and buzzes with activity day and night. The area historically hosts public celebrations, parades, and demonstrations.
10. Dolmabahce Palace
Dolmabahce Palace is a historical palace located in Istanbul, Turkey. It was built between 1843 and 1856 as the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire during the late period of its history. The palace was designed in the European style, with a mix of Baroque, Rococo, Neoclassical and traditional Ottoman elements. The palace complex consists of several buildings and courtyards, including the Imperial Harem, the Ceremonial Hall, and the State Apartments. The palace also houses a large collection of European art, including paintings by famous artists such as Franz Xaver Winterhalter and Osman Hamdi Bey. The palace is now a museum and open to visitors.
11. Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar is a historic market in Istanbul, Turkey. It is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with more than 61 streets and 4,000 shops. The bazaar is known for its jewelry, ceramics, spices, textiles, and carpets. It is a popular tourist destination and a major economic center for the city. The Grand Bazaar is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

ADDITIONAL INFO

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays
• Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays
• Blue Mosque is closed until 2pm on Fridays
• Dolmabahce Palace is closed on Mondays
• Galata Tower will be visited from outside as tour guides have no priority to skip the line due to Galata Tower regulation
• Annual Closing Dates of all museums and bazaars in Istanbul in 2021 as follows; January 1-New Year. May 13/14/15-Ramadan Celebrations. July 20/21/22/23-Eid Celebrations. October 29-Republic Day
• Hagia Sophia will be closed for visit during praying time
• Families with young children will be accompanied by kid-friendly tour guide
• For last minute bookings, tour starting time can be flexible

CANCELLATION POLICY

Posted By : Krishnan_N
We had Cicek for 2 days. She was great. We did the walking tour. Took us to all the main highlights. She was informative and also patient. Never rushed us. I highly recommend this tour and also Cicek.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-01-01 13:12:42

Posted By : Mary_O
Our two-day tour with Cicek was the best way to immerse ourselves in the culture and history of Istanbul and Turkey. She helped plan our days to see the most important sites of the city. She was so knowledgeable and personable that it felt like touring with a dear friend. Having a private guide for the two of us really enhanced our experience. We highly recommend Cicek to anyone traveling to Istanbul.

Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2023-11-09 10:53:52

Posted By : steve_f
The tour guide Ochun was excellent. First day, driver never showed up. We needed to get our own cab. Second day , the van we had to drive in was terrible and dirty. The van by design would not allow us to look out the front window. If you don’t get better vehicles you will lose customers.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2023-11-02 12:33:20

Posted By : Neeraja_P
Orkhut was an excellent guide through and through for our private tour in the old city of Istanbul. Main highlight of the tour was visiting the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque by being able to skip the queue. We also had a very interesting and informative tour of Topkapi Palace along with him. Last but not the least it was great to find this hidden gem of a restaurant whose terrace gave splendid views of Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque , ideal for photographs and feeding seagulls as well ! Would definitely recommend !
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2023-10-30 06:19:01

Posted By : drhs5
Excellent 2 day tour - saw the best bits of Istanbul. Helped understand Istanbul. Great personal guide
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2023-10-13 13:57:51

Posted By : Kathleen_B
Istanbul is a beautiful, historic city. Our guide Mustafa was incredibly knowledgeable and keen to share his passion for the city and it’s history. He was always checking in with us to confirm our understanding and comfort.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2023-09-23 12:34:25

Posted By : Kavitha_R
The Guide was I too rude and in a hurry to complete the tour. Had zero patience.
Made us Walk fast or literally run to places we needed to see.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2023-09-22 07:34:11

Posted By : Sinead_M
Ferhat our tour guide met us at the port and guided us through this vibrant city of Istanbul. We avoided all the huge groups saw the beautiful palace skipping the long line, wandering through the sacred mosque sites. We would not have been confident to tackle the Grand Bazaar but Ferhat made that easy! We ended the day with a wonderful private boat tour of the Bosporus as the sun was setting-truly magical. We cannot thank Ferhat enough for his warmth and kindness. His knowledge of the city, past and present is incredible and we are grateful for his time in Istanbul. Thank you !
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2023-09-09 03:13:37

Posted By : Aida_R
Our guide was amazing, she explained all history, having a guide makes the entrance to sites very easy. She was on time and always with a smile. Thank you ☺️
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2023-08-23 13:12:52

Posted By : Licinio_G
Gülşen did an Excellent job during the 2 day private tour guide in Istanbul! We were extremely happy with the level of detail that she provided but she did an outstanding job catering to all different requests in our group. She was extremely patient and customer focus despite our challenges.
We highly recommend her services to anyone that wants to visit Istanbul.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2023-07-05 09:20:19