Full Day Istanbul Old City & Asian Side Visit Incl Lunch & Tickets

Istanbul is a city that seamlessly blends the old and the new, the East and the West. This full-day tour promises to unveil the captivating charm of this vibrant metropolis, taking visitors on a journey through its historic landmarks and cultural heritage. From the iconic Hagia Sophia to the serene Camlica Hill, the tour offers a comprehensive exploration of both the Old City and the Asian side, complete with lunch and hassle-free access to museums. With a professional guide at the helm, travelers can enjoy the rich tapestry of Istanbul‘s history and uncover the hidden gems that make this city truly one-of-a-kind. The only question that remains is: where will this tour take you?

Key Points

This full-day tour covers the historic European and Asian sides of Istanbul, featuring iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.
The tour includes admission tickets and a delicious lunch, providing a hassle-free and comprehensive exploration of Istanbul’s cultural heritage.
Travelers will experience a seamless journey with a maximum of 18 participants, led by a professional licensed guide offering engaging commentary.
The tour offers convenient pickups from centrally located hotels and the cruise ship port, ensuring a comfortable transportation experience.
Significant walking is involved, so the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues, but strollers are allowed for infants.

Tour Overview

The full-day Istanbul Old City & Asian Side Visit offers a comprehensive tour, spanning the historic European and vibrant Asian sides of the city.

Exploring the iconic landmarks, this 5-star rated tour provides a seamless experience for visitors. Highlights include the stunning Hagia Sophia, the majestic Blue Mosque, the ancient Hippodrome, the panoramic Camlica Hill, and a palace.

Lunch and museum tickets are included, ensuring a hassle-free day. With a maximum of 18 travelers, this tour guarantees personalized attention from a professional licensed guide.

Pickup and drop-off from centrally located hotels and the cruise ship port add to the convenience, making this the ideal way to discover the best of Istanbul in a single day.

Tour Inclusions

This full-day tour includes a professional licensed guide who’ll lead the way, providing valuable insights throughout the day.

An air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable journey, while museum tickets grant access to the must-see attractions.

Lunch is provided, though beverages are at the travelers’ own expense. All fees and taxes are covered, making this a hassle-free experience.

Pickup and drop-off from centrally located hotels on the European Side and the Cruise Ship Port add to the tour’s convenience.

With a maximum of 18 travelers, this tour offers a personalized experience, allowing for a deeper exploration of Istanbul’s rich history and cultures.

Pickup Details

Pickup for the tour starts 1 hour before the scheduled departure time, and the exact pickup time will be provided after booking. This tour offers flexible booking, allowing guests to confirm their pickup location up to 24 hours before the activity.

Here are a few key pickup details:

Guests staying at Airbnb or apartments should select a nearby hotel for their pickup point.
The tour provides pickup from centrally located hotels on the European Side and the Cruise Ship Port.
Infants must sit on laps during the transportation, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it’s stroller accessible.
Daily vehicle disinfection ensures a clean and safe transport experience.

Additional Information

The tour starts promptly at 8:30 am and lasts a full day, providing a rundown of Istanbul’s historic sites and vibrant Asian side.

Guests should dress modestly, as shoulders and knees must be covered when visiting religious sites; single-use dresses are available for purchase if needed.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly, though infants must sit on laps during transportation.

Daily vehicle disinfection ensures a clean and safe travel experience throughout the journey.

Travelers should note that the tour involves a significant amount of walking, which may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.

However, the stunning sights and knowledgeable guidance make for an unforgettable experience.

Traveler Feedback

Guests who’ve experienced the Istanbul Old City & Asian Side Visit rave about the tour’s comprehensive coverage, knowledgeable guiding, and stunning sights. Reviewers highlight four key aspects that make this tour a must-try:

An expert guide who brings Istanbul’s history and culture to life with engaging commentary.
The chance to see iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque in a single day.
Convenient inclusions like museum tickets and lunch, which allow travelers to make the most of their time.
The opportunity to stroll through both the European and Asian sides of the city, offering a well-rounded perspective.

While the walking aspect may pose a challenge for some, the tour’s comprehensive nature and diverse offerings make it a top choice for visitors to Istanbul.

Explore Istanbul’s Old City

On this comprehensive tour, visitors explore the historical heart of Istanbul, spanning both its European and Asian sides.

From the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia to the serene Camlica Hill, the day’s itinerary offers a captivating blend of iconic landmarks and cultural experiences.

Travelers will marvel at the Blue Mosque‘s stunning architecture, stroll through the Hippodrome, and discover the Topkapi Palace, a former imperial residence.

Along the way, they’ll enjoy a delicious included lunch and have the opportunity to browse local markets, seeing the vibrant sights, sounds, and flavors of this dynamic city that bridges continents.

With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, visitors are treated to an unforgettable exploration of Istanbul’s treasured Old City.

Visit the Asian Side

After exploring the iconic sights of Istanbul’s Old City on the European side, the tour now takes visitors across the iconic Bosphorus Strait to the Asian side of the city. Here, they’ll discover the serene Camlica Hill, offering panoramic views of the city skyline and the Bosphorus waterway.

The highlights of the Asian side visit include:

Exploring the Camlica Mosque, a stunning example of modern Turkish architecture.
Visiting the Beylerbeyi Palace, a 19th-century Ottoman summer residence with ornate interiors and beautiful gardens.
Wandering through the charming streets of the Uskudar neighborhood, known for its lively markets and historic buildings.
Enjoying a traditional Turkish lunch, savoring the flavors of the city’s diverse cuisine.

Highlights of the Tour

First, the tour allows visitors to marvel at the grandeur of the Hagia Sophia, a magnificent Byzantine architectural masterpiece that seamlessly blends Christian and Islamic influences.

Guests then continue to the nearby Blue Mosque, an iconic landmark known for its stunning blue-tiled interior.

The Hippodrome, an ancient Roman chariot racing stadium, provides a glimpse into the city’s rich historical past.

Next, the tour heads to the Camlica Hill, the highest point in Istanbul, offering panoramic views of the city’s skyline and the Bosphorus Strait.

Finally, visitors explore a beautiful mosque and a palace, seeing the city’s vibrant cultural heritage.

With an expert guide, travelers embark on an unforgettable journey spanning Europe and Asia in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Time Is Spent in the Old City Versus the Asian Side?

The tour spends more time in the old city, as it includes key highlights like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Visitors also get to explore the Asian side, but the majority of the day is focused on the historical European side of Istanbul.

Are There Any Opportunities for Shopping During the Tour?

This tour focuses on sightseeing and includes no scheduled shopping stops. However, there may be opportunities for guests to browse local shops or markets at their own discretion during any free time allowed in the itinerary.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is 18 travelers. The tour description specifically states that the tour has a "Maximum of 18 travelers," allowing for a personalized and intimate experience.

Can We Customize the Tour to Focus on Certain Sites?

The tour allows for some customization, though the itinerary covers key highlights. Guests can communicate interests to the guide, who’ll aim to tailor the experience within the tour’s overall structure and duration.

Is Gratuity for the Guide Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price does not include gratuity for the guide. Tipping the guide is optional but appreciated for their expertise and to acknowledge good service. The amount is at the discretion of the traveler.