Istanbul: Old City Tour Full Day with Lunch

A Practical and Enjoyable Way to Explore Istanbul’s Old City

If you’re visiting Istanbul and want to see its most famous sights without the hassle of navigating public transport or walking endless distances, this full-day Old City tour might be just what you need. For around $89, you get hotel pickup and drop-off, a private car, a knowledgeable guide, and visits to Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar—plus a traditional Turkish lunch.

What we love about this experience is how it balances comfort and convenience. First, the door-to-door transfers mean you avoid the stress of finding your way through busy streets. Second, the small group size—capped at 15 travelers—ensures the guide can give personalized attention, answer questions, and share stories that bring the city’s history alive. A downside? You’ll spend a fair amount of time on a bus, which may not suit those eager to stretch their legs frequently. Still, if you prefer a comfortable, curated overview of Istanbul’s main sights, this tour delivers great value.

This tour is especially well-suited for first-time visitors or anyone with limited time but a keen interest in Turkish history and architecture. It’s also excellent for travelers who appreciate having tickets included and enjoy a relaxed pace, with some time for browsing or shopping at the Grand Bazaar.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transportation: Door-to-door hotel pickup and private vehicle ensure a stress-free day.
• Small Group Size: Tours are limited to 15 people for a more personalized experience.
• Expert Guidance: Your guide provides insightful explanations about each site.
• Included Tickets: Admission to Topkapi Palace is included, saving time and effort.
• Well-Structured Itinerary: Visits cover the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Grand Bazaar.
• Lunch Included: You’ll enjoy a traditional Turkish meal, giving you a real taste of local cuisine.

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Start at the Hippodrome

Your day begins with a visit to the Hippodrome, the ancient sports arena that was once the heart of Constantinople’s social life. Here, you’ll see monuments like the Egyptian Obelisk, the German Fountain, the Serpentine Column, and the Column of Constantine. These relics are remnants of a time when chariot races and political gatherings drew crowds in the thousands. One traveler mentioned, “The tour is mixed with different groups who paid for different experiences,” which suggests some variability in how much you see or learn, but the historical monuments themselves are undeniably fascinating.

The Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque)

Next, you’ll visit the Blue Mosque, a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture with its six minarets and stunning blue İznik tile interior. Note that it is closed on Fridays, so plan accordingly. Even if it’s under renovation at times, its exterior and setting are breathtaking. Travelers frequently mention the grandeur of this mosque, with one saying, “Viewing and going inside the Sultan Ahmed and Hagia Sophia Mosques… What amazing architecture and history.”

Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia is the star of Istanbul’s skyline and a highlight of any visit. Originally built as a church in the 6th century, it later became a mosque, then a museum, and now functions again as a mosque. The blend of Byzantine mosaics, Ottoman minarets, and vast domes makes it a must-see. Admission isn’t included in the tour price, which means you’ll buy your own ticket, but many find the experience worth the extra cost. As one reviewer put it, “It’s one of the greatest marvels of architecture, and the history wrapped up in its walls is incredible.”

Topkapi Palace

Your guide will take you inside the Topkapi Palace, the Ottoman sultans’ residence for centuries. While it’s closed on Tuesdays, on other days, you’ll explore the Imperial Treasury, see sacred Islamic relics, and walk through the palace kitchens and armory. The two-hour visit offers a good mix of architecture, history, and art. Interestingly, visitors noted guides like Omer and Burak make the experience engaging with their enthusiasm and stories, making history accessible and lively.

Hagia Irene and the Grand Bazaar

Depending on the day, you’ll also visit Hagia Irene, one of Istanbul’s oldest Byzantine churches, known for its impressive architecture. The Grand Bazaar caps the day, offering an authentic shopping experience. With over 4,000 shops selling everything from carpets and leather to jewelry, antique tiles, and Turkish delight, it’s an ideal spot to browse or pick up souvenirs. Expect about two hours here, which gives you enough time for some serious shopping or simply soaking up the lively atmosphere.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

Transportation and Group Size

The fully air-conditioned private vehicle means you’ll travel comfortably between sites, a significant perk given Istanbul’s often hectic streets. The group size maxing out at 15 ensures a more intimate experience, unlike large coach tours, and allows your guide to cater to your questions and interests.

Timing and Pacing

Begun at 8:30 am, the tour lasts around 8 hours, including lunch and hotel transfers. Most travelers found the pace manageable, although some mentioned the lot of walking involved—be prepared for that, even if transportation covers the bulk of the day. The only bus ride is for the transfers, so you’ll spend most of your day on foot at each site.

Cost and Inclusions

At just $89.01 per person, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the included admission tickets to Topkapi Palace and lunch. However, note that admission to Hagia Sophia is not included, which might come as a surprise to some, so budget extra if you plan to go inside. Personal expenses, tips, and additional purchases at the bazaar are on you.

Reviews and Feedback

Most travelers praise the knowledgeable guides who make history engaging without overwhelming, and mention the stunning views and delicious lunch. One said, “Ömer showed us around with great enthusiasm and stories,” highlighting the importance of a passionate guide. Some noted that walking can be tiring, and others pointed out that price can be a little misleading if you’re not aware of ticket costs for Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, but overall, the consensus is positive.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a rundown of Istanbul’s Old City with a comfortable and manageable pace, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for first-timers who want to see top sights without the hassle of planning logistics or dealing with crowded streets alone. It’s also perfect for those who value expert guidance and included tickets to skip some lines, making the most of your limited time.

However, if you prefer to explore at your own pace, linger longer at specific sites, or dislike walking, you might find this tour slightly restrictive. Also, if exploring every nook and cranny is your goal, consider supplementing this with additional visits later.

This experience provides a balanced blend of history, culture, comfort, and value—a solid choice for travelers eager to get a rich taste of Istanbul’s historic heart.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off from anywhere in Sultanahmet or Taksim, making it very convenient.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 8 hours, starting at 8:30 am, including visits, lunch, and transportation time.

What sites are included in the itinerary?
The tour covers the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Irene (if open), and the Grand Bazaar.

Are tickets to Hagia Sophia included?
No, tickets are not included for Hagia Sophia, so you’ll need to buy them on the spot, costing around 25 TRY per person.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a traditional Turkish lunch is part of the package, giving you a taste of local cuisine.

What’s the maximum group size?
15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking and the heat in summer.

Are there any days the sites are closed?
Yes, Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays, and Hagia Irene is also closed on Tuesdays. The Blue Mosque is closed on Fridays.

How much does the tour cost?
$89.01 per person, which is good value considering the included tickets and lunch.

Can I cancel if needed?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

This Istanbul Old City tour offers a practical, well-structured way to see its most iconic landmarks while enjoying the comforts of small-group travel. Perfect for first-time visitors or those short on time but eager to get a comprehensive taste of this vibrant city.