Small Group Tour - Monuments of Istanbul (Morning or Afternoon)
At a glance
Small Group Tour - Monuments of Istanbul (Morning or Afternoon) is a 3h 30m small-group experience in Istanbul, Turkey, operated by Local Experiences Istanbul. Travellers rate it 4.0 out of 5 across 34 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor. Prices start from $45.55 per person, and free cancellation is available. Included: Hotel pickup is possible only for morning tour from selected city center hotels, Professional guide, Guaranteed to skip the long lines.
Highlights
- Skip-the-line entry saves time at busy sights
- Small group of up to 20 people for a more personal experience
- Free cancellation for flexible planning
- 5 stops in one well-planned itinerary
- Wheelchair accessible
Quick facts
- Duration
- 3h 30m
- Group
- Small group, up to 20 travellers
- Languages
- German, English, Spanish
- Pickup
- Hotel pickup or meet at the start point
- Confirmation
- Instant confirmation
- Ticket
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation (see policy)
Overview
Tour Itinerary – Highlights of Old Istanbul
Begin your journey in the very heart of old Istanbul: Sultanahmet Square. Once the grand hippodrome of Constantinople, where chariot races and imperial ceremonies took place, today it remains a lively square filled with history and charm.
✨ What You’ll See:
Hippodrome of Constantinople – once the sporting and social center of the Byzantine Empire
Serpentine Column & Obelisk of Theodosius – ancient monuments that still stand proudly
German Fountain – a 19th-century gift from Kaiser Wilhelm II
Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque) – an iconic masterpiece of Ottoman architecture
Hagia Sophia – admire from the outside (inside visit optional with extra ticket)
Grand Bazaar – one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets
(Optional) Stop at a local outlet store before the Grand Bazaar to compare prices
This route combines Istanbul’s must-see landmarks with hidden stories of history, making it perfect for first-time visitors.
What's included
What's included
- Hotel pickup is possible only for morning tour from selected city center hotels
- Professional guide
- Guaranteed to skip the long lines
Not included
- Gratuities
- Drop Off
- Landing and facility fees
- Hagia Sophia Museum entrance fee is not included
Itinerary
-
Stop 1 · 45m
Hagia Sophia, also known as the Church of Divine Wisdom, is one of the world’s greatest architectural masterpieces. Originally built as a basilica in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian, it has served as a church, mosque, and museum throughout its remarkable history. Today, Hagia Sophia functions both as an active mosque and a visitor attraction open to tourists. Guests can admire its magnificent dome, impressive Byzantine mosaics, and unique blend of Christian and Islamic heritage, making it one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks.
-
Stop 2 · 30m
Blue Mosque, facing Hagia Sophia, famous with its blue İznik tiles and unique with 6 minarets,
built in the name of Sultan Ahmet. -
Stop 3 · 40m
Hippodrome, center of sportive events (chariot races, athletics) and political activities of the old city. Serpentine Column, Obelisk of Theodosius and German Fountain of Wilhelm II are the monuments decorating the Hippodrome.
-
Stop 4 · 1h
Grand Covered Bazaar, most attractive shopping center and the biggest "souk" in the world
with nearly 4000 shops selling antiques, jewellery, gold, carpets, leatherware and souvenir.
(Art demonstration of handmade Turkish carpets upon request) -
Stop 5 · 20m
You will have the chance to visit a leather and Turkish carpet factory outlet for shopping before or after the Grand Bazaar.
Meeting point
Tour will start in front of Tamara Restaurant at 08:30 or 13:00
Good to know
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
- A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
- Please confirm your reservation for pick up time and your hotel details
- Grand Covered Bazaar is closed on Sundays and replaced with and authantic shops around Grand Bazaar
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Small Group Tour - Monuments of Istanbul (Morning or Afternoon) take?
The experience lasts about 3h 30m.
How much does it cost?
Prices start from $45.55 per person. The final price depends on the date, time and number of travellers, and is confirmed on Viator before you pay.
What's included?
Hotel pickup is possible only for morning tour from selected city center hotels; Professional guide; Guaranteed to skip the long lines.
Where does it start?
Tour will start in front of Tamara Restaurant at 08:30 or 13:00
Can I cancel?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is guided in German, English, Spanish.
Is it worth it?
Travellers rate it 4.0 out of 5 across 34 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor, which places it among the top-rated experiences in Istanbul.
