Segway Istanbul Old City Tour – Morning

Imagine gliding effortlessly through the ancient streets of Istanbul’s Sultanahmet district, the city’s historic core, without breaking a sweat or climbing hills. That’s exactly what the Segway Istanbul Old City Tour offers. For roughly 3 to 4 hours and at a cost of about $53.32 per person, you get to see some of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks—like the Blue Mosque, the Hagia Sophia, and the Hippodrome—all while riding a Segway.

The tour is guided, small-group, and designed to give you a quick yet comprehensive look at the city’s highlights. What we love is how easy and accessible this mode of transport makes exploring, especially when compared to walking long distances or navigating crowded streets. Plus, with audio headsets, you won’t miss a single interesting fact or story from your guide.

That said, a few considerations are worth noting. The tour doesn’t include interior visits of the Hagia Sophia or Topkapı Palace, so if exploring inside these historic sites is your priority, you’ll need to plan additional visits. This experience suits travelers who want to see the main sights efficiently, enjoy a bit of fun, and learn from passionate guides—perfect for those who prefer a relaxed pace but still want depth.

Key Points

• Efficient sightseeing: Cover major landmarks in a few hours rather than days.
• Small group size: Tours capped at just nine travelers foster interaction and personalized attention.
• Guided commentary: Clear audio headsets ensure you hear the stories behind each sight.
• Easy to handle: Beginners report the Segway is simple to learn after a short practice.
• Excellent reviews: Consistently rated 5/5 by travelers who praise the guide’s knowledge and fun approach.
• Limited interior access: No inside visits to Hagia Sophia or Topkapı Palace, so plan for separate tickets if desired.

An In-Depth Look at the Istanbul Old City Segway Tour

Starting Point and Overall Experience

The tour begins in the Alemdar area, giving you a convenient central starting point in Fatih. The meeting time is 10:00 am, which is ideal for avoiding the midday crowds and enjoying the cooler morning air. The group size is limited to 8 travelers, ensuring you get plenty of guide interaction and personalized tips.

From the start, it’s clear this isn’t just about riding a Segway; it’s about getting a sense of the city’s soul. The tours are designed to be both educational and fun, with reviewers consistently praising Tarik’s knowledge and personable style.

What’s Included and What’s Not

All you need to bring is a sense of adventure and a willingness to learn. The tour provides the Segway, a helmet, audio headset to hear the guide clearly, and waterproof gear in case of rain. The price covers everything except interior visits to Hagia Sophia and Topkapı Palace, meaning you should budget extra if those are on your must-see list.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Sultanahmet District
We start in the bustling heart of Istanbul’s Old City. The Sultanahmet Square is the perfect launchpad—surrounded by historic mosques, bazaars, and ancient ruins. Here, the guide quickly gives an overview of the city’s significance, setting the scene for what’s ahead.

Stop 2: Cemberlitas Sutunu
A quick stop at Constantine’s Column—a striking Roman relic. It’s a brief visit, but the guide’s insights help you appreciate the Roman influence woven into the city’s fabric.

Stop 3: Beyazit Mosque
Nestled in the Beyazit Square, this mosque is surrounded by the Istanbul University and the Grand Bazaar area. It’s a lively spot, perfect for feeling the pulse of everyday life in Istanbul.

Stop 4: Sehzade Mehmet Mosque
Considered Sinan’s first masterpiece, this mosque showcases Ottoman architecture’s early brilliance. The tour’s pace means you get just enough time to admire the exterior and learn its significance.

Stop 5: Valens Aqueduct
An impressive reminder of Roman engineering, the Valens Aqueduct still stands tall, emphasizing the city’s long history of urban sophistication.

Stop 6: Suleymaniye Mosque
Istanbul’s largest mosque, built for Sultan Suleyman, offers stunning views and a sense of the Ottoman Empire’s grandeur. You’ll have about 10 minutes here to soak in the architecture and atmosphere.

Stop 7: Gulhane Park
This peaceful oasis is the oldest urban park in Istanbul. It’s a great spot to breathe and contemplate the city’s layered history.

Stop 8: Hippodrome
Once a hub for chariot races and political gatherings, the Hippodrome remains a fascinating site, rich with history and stories of tumult and triumph.

Stop 9: Blue Mosque
The Sultanahmet Mosque is iconic—its six minarets and majestic silhouette are instantly recognizable. From the outside, it’s breathtaking, and the tour allows 10 minutes to admire its exterior and surroundings.

Stop 10: Topkapı Palace
While interior visits aren’t included, the exterior view of Topkapı Palace is worth the brief stop. For history buffs, this was the palace of Ottoman sultans for centuries.

Stop 11: Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
Finally, you circle the Hagia Sophia, a monument that’s been both church and mosque over the centuries. It’s an extraordinary sight, and the 5-minute stop offers a chance to appreciate its stunning exterior and intricate design.

Guide and Group Experience

Many reviews highlight Tarik as an exceptional guide—knowledgeable, engaging, and attentive. His ability to balance historical facts with humor makes the experience enjoyable for all ages. The audio headsets are especially appreciated, allowing travelers to hear every detail clearly without the guide raising their voice.

The Ride and Practicalities

Most travelers comment on how easy it is to learn the Segway, even for first-timers. A brief training session beforehand helps everyone feel confident. The small group size fosters interaction and makes the experience feel personalized, often leading to memorable conversations and tips.

Value for Money

At just over $50, this tour offers excellent value considering the number of major landmarks covered and the guide’s expertise. Many reviews mention how much ground they cover in a short period—something tough to do on foot, especially with Istanbul’s hilly terrain.

Potential Drawbacks

One review notes how Saturday crowds and the busy streets can make riding a Segway more challenging. The streets are lined with metal street markers that can be obstacles. While Tarik’s team could adjust the route for comfort, the busy weekend atmosphere might still require some patience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors eager to get a broad overview of Istanbul’s historic core without exhausting themselves. It’s also suitable for families, couples, or groups looking for a mix of sightseeing, fun, and education. If you’re comfortable on a Segway and want to cover more ground than walking allows, this tour offers a fantastic way to see Istanbul’s signature sights with minimal hassle.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

If you’re after a fun, informative, and efficient way to explore Istanbul’s Old City, this Segway tour hits all the right notes. It combines expert guidance, easy transport, and major landmarks into a memorable package. You’ll love the stunning views, the knowledgeable guide, and how much ground you cover without needing to walk miles.

However, if interior visits or a more in-depth exploration of specific sites are your priority, you might want to add extra visits later. But for a first taste of the city’s historic heart, this tour offers great value for money and a genuinely enjoyable experience.

In short, this tour is best suited for adventure-loving travelers who want to see the highlights, learn some stories, and have a little fun along the way. With a small group, top-notch guides, and the thrill of gliding through Istanbul’s streets, you’re set for a memorable morning in one of the world’s most captivating cities.

FAQ

Do I need prior experience to ride a Segway?
No, most travelers find the Segway easy to learn, especially after a brief training session. Even first-timers enjoy the ride once they get the hang of it.

What sights will I see?
You’ll see major landmarks like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Hippodrome, Suleymaniye Mosque, and more. The tour focuses on the exterior views and historical context.

Can I visit the interior of Hagia Sophia or Topkapı Palace?
No, the tour does not include interior visits for these sites. You may want to plan separate tickets if inside exploration interests you.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for riding a Segway and the weather. Bring rain gear if rain is forecast, as waterproof gear is provided.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers find it suitable, provided they are comfortable on a Segway. Check age restrictions with the provider if traveling with young children.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 to 4 hours, giving ample time to see the main sights and take pictures.

What if I get tired?
The tour is designed for a relaxed pace, but if you feel tired, you can let the guide know. The Segways make covering ground easier than walking.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or other poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

In summary, this Segway Istanbul Old City Tour combines fun, history, and efficiency—perfect if you want to experience the essence of Sultanahmet with expert guidance and minimal effort. It’s a smart choice for those wanting to maximize their time and enjoy Istanbul’s most iconic sights in style.