Full Day Istanbul Old City & Asian Side Tour incl Lunch & Tickets

Exploring Istanbul in a single day might sound ambitious, but with this Full Day Istanbul Old City & Asian Side Tour, it becomes an exciting and manageable journey. Starting early at 8:30 am, this approximately 7-hour experience takes you through some of the most iconic sites in the city, both on the European and Asian sides. For $112.75 per person, you’re treated to a well-rounded glimpse of Istanbul’s ancient monuments, vibrant markets, and panoramic vistas—all with the comfort of air-conditioned transportation and a knowledgeable guide, often a highlight in reviews.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, it combines top-tier sights like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Beylerbeyi Palace—each offering a unique window into Istanbul’s layered past. Second, it includes lunch and museum tickets at no extra cost, which simplifies planning and enhances value. It’s a good choice for travelers who want a rundown without the stress of organizing each visit separately.

A possible consideration? The tour involves quite a bit of walking and standing, which might be exhausting for some, especially the elderly or those with walking difficulties. As one reviewer noted, “there was a lot of walking, which wasn’t in the description,” so if you prefer a more relaxed pace, this might be a point to consider.

This experience suits travelers eager to see Istanbul’s must-see highlights efficiently, especially if you’re limited on time but want an authentic, guided approach that balances history, culture, and stunning views.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Visits to both the Old City and Asian Side provide a well-rounded experience.
• Inclusive features: All museum tickets and lunch included, adding great value.
• Expert guidance: Knowledgeable guides, particularly helpful in navigating crowded sites.
• Comfortable transport: Air-conditioned vehicle, pickup from centrally located hotels.
• Scenic views: Camlica Hill offers stunning panoramas of the Bosphorus and the city.
• Walking considerations: Be prepared for significant walking, which may be tiring for some.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting at Hagia Sophia: The Architectural Marvel

Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel and a short drive to Hagia Sophia, one of the world’s most famous monuments. Known for its massive dome and intricate mosaics, Hagia Sophia has served as both a church and a mosque. It’s often called an “Eight Wonder of the World” for good reason. With a 45-minute visit, you’ll get a chance to marvel at its vast interior and learn about its complex history from your guide.

This site is a highlight and one that truly embodies Istanbul’s layered past. As one reviewer, Sheryl, mentioned, their guide “answered all our questions” and moved the group efficiently through the crowds. Expect to see impressive mosaics, towering architecture, and perhaps a few fellow travelers soaking in the ambiance.

The Blue Mosque: Iconic and Unique

Next, you’ll visit the Blue Mosque, famous for its exquisite blue Iznik tiles. The interior is a sensory feast of color and craftsmanship. Interestingly, it’s the only imperial mosque in the world built with six minarets. Because of prayer times, visits are sometimes limited to the exterior, especially on Fridays, but the interior remains a must-see for its beauty.

While some find the mosque packed with visitors, the guided tour ensures you get the highlights and context without feeling overwhelmed. As Janine noted, the Blue Mosque “is stunning,” and it’s easy to see why it’s such a symbol of Istanbul.

Hippodrome and the Heart of Byzantium

A short walk takes you to the Hippodrome Square, once the social and sporting hub of Byzantium. Here, your guide will point out the Egyptian Obelisk and the Serpent Column, remnants of a bygone era. It’s a quick stop, but one packed with history, perfect for photo opportunities and imagining the ancient crowds that once gathered there.

Exploring the Grand Bazaar

Next, you’ll visit the sprawling Grand Bazaar for a brief presentation on its history and crafts, or you can choose to explore independently. With its thousands of shops, the bazaar is an experience in itself—colorful, lively, and full of tempting souvenirs. Be aware that the bazaar is closed on Sundays, so plan accordingly.

One reviewer appreciated the optional lecture, but also noted that the exploration can be overwhelming, so keep your eyes on your guide’s instructions if you want to maximize your visit.

Delicious Turkish Lunch

After the morning sightseeing, it’s time to relax with a three-course lunch included in the tour. The menu offers vegetarian options and a variety of traditional Turkish dishes. Beverages are not included, so budget accordingly. The sit-down meal provides a nice break and a chance to discuss the morning’s sights with your fellow travelers.

Panoramic Views from Camlica Hill

Post-lunch, your journey crosses the Bosphorus Bridge—an engineering feat that links Europe and Asia. The highlight here is Camlica Hill, the highest point in Istanbul, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Bosphorus, the Princes’ Islands, and the city skyline. It’s a visual feast and a favorite among visitors for photos.

Visiting Camlica Mosque and Beylerbeyi Palace

Next, you’ll see the Grand Camlica Mosque, the largest in Turkey, opened in 2019. Its impressive size and architecture are noteworthy, and the visit is often appreciated for its modern take on Ottoman-inspired design.

The tour concludes with a visit to Beylerbeyi Palace, the summer residence of Ottoman Sultans. Its interior displays a seamless blend of Eastern and Western motifs, with well-preserved furniture and intricate decorations. The palace offers a quieter, elegant end to your busy day.

Practical Details That Matter

The entire day is conducted in air-conditioned comfort, with a group size limited to 18 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience. Pickup and drop-off from centrally located hotels streamline logistics, and tickets are included for all attractions, so there are no surprises.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Multiple reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides who efficiently manage the busy itinerary. Sheryl appreciated Ali, who “answered all our questions,” while Janine called it “a great way to see a lot of Istanbul if you are short on time.” On the downside, Sabina found the walking to be exhausting, especially with elderly companions, which underscores the importance of being prepared for a lot of standing and walking.

Another key aspect is the views from Camlica Hill, which travelers describe as “breathtaking.” This is a rare chance to see Istanbul from a high vantage point and really appreciate the city’s sprawling beauty.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This full-day tour offers a rich combination of history, culture, and scenery at a reasonable price. The inclusion of lunch and tickets simplifies your day and adds to the overall value. If you’re someone who enjoys guided sightseeing with a knowledgeable leader, and you’re prepared for a busy, walking-intensive schedule, this tour is a fantastic way to cover a lot of ground.

It suits travelers who want a structured, informative overview of Istanbul’s highlights and don’t mind a good amount of walking. It’s especially ideal if you’re on a tight schedule but still want to experience the city’s main sights comfortably.

However, if you or your companions have walking difficulties, this tour might be more demanding than it appears. Also, on Fridays, the Blue Mosque visit will be exterior-only, which might disappoint those eager to step inside.

Ultimately, this tour offers a balanced, well-organized approach to discovering Istanbul’s wonders, led by guides who are both knowledgeable and engaging. For those seeking a hassle-free, comprehensive day that balances history, scenic views, and cultural depth, it’s a solid choice.

FAQ

• What is the starting time for the tour?
  The tour begins at 8:30 am, with pickup from your hotel.

• Is lunch included in the price?
  Yes, a three-course lunch is included, with vegetarian options available.

• Are museum tickets included?
  Yes, all entrance fees to sites like Hagia Sophia and the Camlica Mosque are covered.

• How much walking should I expect?
  Expect quite a bit of walking and standing, which might be tiring, particularly if you have mobility issues.

• Can I skip certain sites?
  The itinerary is fixed, but you can choose to explore some sites more independently, especially at the Grand Bazaar.

• Is the Blue Mosque visit interior or exterior?
  On Fridays, only the exterior is accessible; on other days, you’ll see the interior.

• What about dress code?
  Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is required for mosque visits. Dress covers are available for purchase on-site if needed.

• Will I see panoramic views of Istanbul?
  Yes, from Camlica Hill, you’ll get stunning views of the Bosphorus, the Princes’ Islands, and the city.

• How long is the tour?
  The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, from pickup to return to your hotel.

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  While most travelers found it manageable, the walking and extensive site visits may be best suited for older children or teenagers.

This detailed exploration shows that the Full Day Istanbul Old City & Asian Side Tour offers a thorough, well-organized way to experience Istanbul’s essence in one day. With expert guides, inclusive features, and breathtaking views, it’s an excellent choice for travelers eager to see the highlights without the hassle of planning each detail themselves. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and prepare for a full day of sightseeing.