Hagia Sophia at sunset, its domes and minarets rising above the gardens of Sultanahmet in the Istanbul Old City

Private Istanbul Tour

Istanbul Old City Tour

The great icons of empire, walked at your pace, with the stories behind them.

Full day · Private Private & Custom-Made Licensed Local Guide No Hidden Costs

The historic peninsula is where Constantinople became Istanbul — the capital of empires, and still the city's beating heart. On this private tour your licensed guide brings it to life, threading together Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and the Grand Bazaar with the history, legends and human stories that the guidebooks leave out.

Because the day is entirely yours, there is no rushing and no fixed script. We linger where you are captivated, skip what you are not, and time our visits to stay a step ahead of the crowds.

What You'll Experience

Highlights

Hagia Sophia

Fifteen centuries of Byzantine and Ottoman history beneath one of the world’s great domes.

The Blue Mosque

Sultan Ahmed’s cascading domes and the famous Iznik tiles that give the mosque its name.

Topkapi Palace

The opulent court of the Ottoman sultans — courtyards, the Harem, and imperial treasures.

The Grand Bazaar

Sixty covered streets of carpets, lanterns, gold and spice — with a guide who knows where to go.

Basilica Cistern

A candle-lit underground forest of columns and the mysterious Medusa heads (on request).

Hippodrome & Square

Ancient obelisks and the heart of old Constantinople, tying the day’s history together.

Included

What's Included

  • Fully private tour for your group only
  • Licensed, English-speaking local guide
  • Custom itinerary built around your interests and pace
  • Hotel meeting point within the central area
  • Local tips, photo spots and tea stops along the way
  • Transparent pricing agreed in advance — no hidden costs

Good to Know

Frequently Asked

Are entrance fees included?

Museum and monument entrance fees are quoted clearly upfront so there are no surprises. We will list exactly what is included with your itinerary.

How long is the Old City tour?

It is typically a full day, but it is fully flexible. We can run a shorter half-day focused on your top sights, or a relaxed full day with lunch.

Is this tour suitable for seniors or slower walkers?

Yes. We adjust the pace and route to your group, with plenty of rest and tea stops to keep the day comfortable.

Can we customise which sites we visit?

Absolutely. The Old City Tour is a starting point — swap in the Spice Bazaar, a mosque, or a viewpoint, and we will reshape the day around you.

Begin the Journey

Plan Your Istanbul Old City Tour

Send us your dates and what you would love to see — we will reply with a tailored itinerary and a clear, all-in quote.