Istanbul Half-Day Private Tour

Duration
  • 4 Hours
Tour Type
  • Private Guided
Activity Level
  • Medium
Season
  • All Year Round
fresks in hagia sophia
fresks in hagia sophia
Outside of Hagia Sophia at our Istanbul Half Day Tour
Inside of Hagia Sophia at our Istanbul Half Day Tour
Hagia Sophia
Second stop is Blue Mosque at our Istanbul Half Day Tour
Hippodrome
Visit Hagia Sophia at our Istanbul Half Day Tour
group tour to hagia sophia
Tour Theme
  • Historical
  • ·
  • City
Perfect for
  • Family
  • ·
  • Friends
  • ·
  • Groups

Tour Description

Experience the rich history and culture of Istanbul with a morning walking tour of Byzantine monuments. This Istanbul Half Day Tour excursion is perfect for travelers looking to explore the city’s center and soak up its cosmopolitan atmosphere. The Istanbul Half Day Tour will introduce you to the hidden secrets of Istanbul and provide an immersive look into the city’s long history. Whether you’re on vacation or simply seeking a unique way to see the sights, this tour is sure to be a highlight of your trip.

Take a journey through the history of Istanbul with the Istanbul Half Day Tour, available every morning. A transportation vehicle will pick you up from your hotel and bring you to the city center, where you’ll meet your licensed and experienced tour guide. As you explore the city’s most iconic landmarks, your guide will provide fascinating insights and historical context. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to discover the rich cultural heritage of Istanbul with a knowledgeable and professional guide.

On the Istanbul Half Day Tour, your first stop will be at the historic Hippodrome square in the Sultanahmet area. This ancient site was once used for chariot races, gladiatorial games, and official ceremonies during the Roman and Byzantine periods. As you explore the Hippodrome, you’ll have the opportunity to see four notable monuments: the Column of Constantine, the German Fountain of Wilhelm II, the Egyptian Obelisk, and the Serpentine Column. Your tour guide will provide detailed information about these important landmarks and their significance in Istanbul’s history.

Private Half-Day Tour in Istanbul

Next on the Byzantian Relics walking tour, you’ll visit the iconic Blue Mosque. One of the most famous and important places of worship in Turkey, the Blue Mosque is known for its six minarets and beautiful blue Iznik tiles inside. However, please note that the Blue Mosque is an active place of worship and is not open to visitors on Fridays. Despite this, the exterior of the building is an impressive sight to behold and is a must-see for any visitor to Istanbul.

The Byzantian Relics walking tour will then take you to the iconic Hagia Sophia, a massive and impressive building that has been characterized as the eighth wonder of the world. Constructed in the 4th century by Constantine the Great and renovated in the 6th century by Justinian, this landmark was originally built to surpass the Temple of Solomon in Jerusalem. Today, it serves as a museum and is visited by millions of people every year. Don’t miss the opportunity to see this breathtaking structure up close and learn more about its rich history.

Private Guided Half-Day Istanbul Tour

The final stop on the Byzantian Relics walking tour is the Grand Bazaar, a bustling and iconic market with over 4,000 shops. With its labyrinthine layout, this bazaar is a must-see for any visitor to Istanbul. You’ll have the opportunity to sample the rich spices of Turkish cuisine, browse a wide variety of clothes and handmade crafts, and pick up some souvenirs to take home. Don’t miss out on this chance to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar.

The Grand Bazaar marks the end of this half-day walking tour, and you’ll have the opportunity to spend as much time as you’d like exploring the market. With no transfer service back to your hotel, you can take your time and fully immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar. This tour is sure to be an unforgettable journey through time, and you’ll leave with lasting memories of your experiences in Istanbul.

Discover the rich history and culture of Istanbul with our Half-Day Private Guided Istanbul tour that immerses you in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Istanbul Half Day Tour takes place every morning and offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s iconic landmarks and learn about its long history. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family, or a group of friends, this tour is perfect for anyone looking to experience the best of Istanbul. Don’t miss out on this chance to create lasting memories and immerse yourself in the culture of this amazing city.

Istanbul Half-Day Tour is designed for you and your friends or family. The displayed price is per person for a group of 4, but rates may vary for smaller or larger groups. Contact us for more information and to customize your tour. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the unique and captivating history on a private tour.

Tour Details

Sights

  • Istanbul
  • ·
  • Turkey

Highlights

Hagia Sophia
Blue Mosque
Hippodrome
Grand Bazaar

Departure Location

Istanbul Hotels

Inclusions

Sightseeings in the Tour Program
Professional Official Tour Guidance
Entrance Fees
Transfers on a Private Basis
Local Taxes

Exclusions

Beverages
Personal Expenses
Tips

Add-ons

Shared Bosphorus Cruise
Private Yacht Cruise on Bosphorus
Departure from Istanbul Airport
Departure from Sabiha Gokcen Airport

Tour Program

09:00 Pickup

Begin your walking tour with a convenient pickup from your hotel by a comfortable vehicle. You’ll be transported to a central location to meet your professional tour guide, who will lead you on a journey through the city’s iconic landmarks and rich history. Get ready for an immersive and unforgettable experience as you explore Istanbul with a knowledgeable and experienced guide.

09:30Hippodrome

One of the first stops on the tour is the Hippodrome, an iconic site that played a central role in the social and cultural life of Rome and Byzantium. This ancient site was used for chariot races, gladiatorial games, and other celebrations and events. In the broader area, you’ll have the chance to see four important landmarks: the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpentine Column, the German Fountain of Wilhelm II, and the Column of Constantine. As you explore this historic site, your tour guide will provide insights and context about the significance of these monuments.

10:00Blue Mosque

Next up on your excursion is the majestic Blue Mosque, one of the most important mosques in Turkey. Known for its impressive size and six minarets, this iconic building is a must-see for any visitor to Istanbul. Inside, visitors can admire the beautiful blue tiles that give the mosque its name. Please note that the Blue Mosque is closed on Fridays for Friday prayers. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to see one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks up close.

11:00Hagia Sophia

Next, you’ll walk a short distance to the iconic Hagia Sophia, a massive and impressive church that was originally built in the 4th century by Constantine the Great. It was later renovated in the 6th century by Justinian in an effort to surpass the Temple of Solomon in Jerusalem. Today, Hagia Sophia serves as a museum and is considered one of the eight wonders of the world. Don’t miss the opportunity to see this breathtaking structure up close and learn more about its rich history.

13:00 Grand Bazaar & Return Back

The final stop on this walking tour is the Grand Bazaar, one of the most popular and well-visited markets in Istanbul. With over 4,000 small shops selling clothes, handicrafts, and street food, this bustling market is a must-see for any visitor to the city. You’ll have free time to explore the bazaar at your own pace and find souvenirs to take home. Please note that the Grand Bazaar is the last stop on the tour and return transportation to your place of accommodation is not included in the price. Don’t miss out on this chance to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar.

Tour Map

Tour FAQ

How can I change the tour itinerary?

Customizable itineraries where you may choose sightseeings as per your taste & comfort. The tour program listed is representative and may completely change to suit your wishes. Feel free to say hello to us!

What is the difference between Private and Regular SIC Tours?

Private tours only include your group, your guide, and your driver. We offer the most personalized and intimate experience for you and your friends/family in a private tour! Regular SIC tours stand for Seat-in-Coach Basis Tours, which means you will share an air-conditioned coach or van with other tourists and you will have an English-speaking tour guide to take you to all the scenic spots listed in the itinerary that day. While the prices of private tours may vary according to the number of people, the prices of regular tours are fixed.

What languages are available for tours?

Our private tours are operated in English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, and Japanese. Feel free to contact us for any other languages.

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SUBMIT INQUIRY!

DISTANCE SALES AGREEMENT

This Distance Sales Agreement (“Agreement”) is made between:

SELLER

Company Name: Ephesian Turizm Tic. LTD. STI.
Address: Ataturk Mah. 1023 Sok. No: 11/1, Selcuk – Izmir / Turkiye
Contact Information:

  • Mobile: +90 540 374 3787
  • Office: +90 232 892 2264
  • Email: hello@ephesiantourism.com
  • Tax Office: Selcuk
  • Tax ID Number: 3361305548
  • Trade Registry Information: Selçuk Chamber of Commerce, Trade Registration Number: 2593

CUSTOMER

Full Name: As provided by the buyer
Billing Address: As provided by the buyer
Email Address: As provided by the buyer
Phone Number: As provided by the buyer

By accepting this Agreement, the Customer consents to the terms of the sale as described below.

ARTICLE 1: SUBJECT OF THE AGREEMENT

This Agreement governs the remote sale of the following product/service as described below:

  • Tour/Service Description: As detailed and offered in the booking program or invoice.
  • Date of Service: As confirmed during booking or offered in the program.
  • Sales Price: As stated in the booking confirmation or invoice.

This Agreement is established in compliance with the Turkish Law on the Protection of Consumers (Law No. 6502) and the Regulation on Distance Contracts, ensuring the rights and obligations of the parties.

ARTICLE 2: DELIVERY OF SERVICE

  1. Delivery Scope:
    • The service or tour will be delivered to the Customer as per the details confirmed in the program or booking confirmation.
    • Tour confirmations, tickets, and additional details will be sent to the Customer’s provided email address. Note: Customers are responsible for ensuring that the email provided is functional and that they check their inbox (and spam/junk folders) promptly after booking.
  2. Flexibility of Itinerary:
    • The Seller reserves the right to modify the order of visits or itinerary based on operational circumstances such as weather, traffic, or availability.
    • All promised destinations and activities will still be covered by the end of the service period. The tour guide is authorized to make any necessary adjustments to the order of events for the overall benefit of the tour experience.
  3. Force Majeure:
    • In cases of delays or disruptions caused by unforeseen circumstances (e.g., natural disasters, pandemics, or government restrictions), the Seller will notify the Customer and attempt to offer alternative arrangements, reschedule the tour, or provide a refund at its discretion.

ARTICLE 3: PAYMENT TERMS

  • Payments must be made via the available methods offered during the booking process, including credit cards, bank transfers, or other accepted options.
  • The total cost of the order, including applicable taxes, is stated in the booking confirmation.
  • Payment is only considered complete when the full amount is successfully received by the Seller.

Secure Payments: All online payments are processed using certified systems that comply with industry-standard encryption and security practices.

Non-Payment: If payment cannot be processed for any reason, the Seller reserves the right to cancel the reservation until the issue is resolved.

ARTICLE 4: RIGHT OF WITHDRAWAL & CANCELLATION

4.1 Right of Withdrawal

  • The Customer has the right to withdraw from this Agreement within 14 days of purchase without providing any reason, provided that:
    1. The service or tour has not commenced.
    2. No irreversible arrangements (e.g., accommodation, tickets, special bookings) have been made as part of the service.
  • To exercise the right of withdrawal, the Customer must submit a written request via email to hello@ephesiantourism.com.

Refund Timeline: Refunds for eligible withdrawals will be processed within up to 40 calendar days following the originally scheduled service date. Any applicable bank charges or transaction fees will be deducted from the refunded amount.

Acknowledgment of Withdrawal: The Seller will acknowledge the Customer’s withdrawal request within 3 business days of receiving it.

4.2 Cancellations Beyond the Withdrawal Period

After the 14-day withdrawal period, cancellations are subject to the terms outlined in the confirmed booking and cancellation policies, which include:

  1. Cancellation Deadlines and Penalties:
    • More than 45 Days Before Service: €150 per person as a planning fee.
    • 45 to 30 Days Before Service: 30% of the total cost per person, or €250 per person (whichever is higher).
    • 29 to 15 Days Before Service: 50% of the total cost per person, or €250 per person (whichever is higher).
    • Less than 14 Days Before Service: No refunds will be issued.
  2. Refund Policy:
    • Refunds, if applicable, will be issued according to the penalties and deadlines listed above. Bank and processing fees will be deducted from the refund.

Important Note:

  • Cancellations made less than 48 hours before the tour start time will be categorized under the “Less than 14 Days Before Service” clause, and no refunds will be issued.
  • Refunds for cancellations (where applicable) will follow the same refund timeline (up to 40 calendar days after the scheduled service date).

ARTICLE 5: SELLER’S RESPONSIBILITIES

The Seller agrees to provide services as described and confirmed in the program or booking details.

If the Seller is unable to deliver services as promised (due to cancellations or other issues), the Customer will be provided with:

  1. Alternative services or equivalent arrangements.
  2. A full or partial refund, as applicable.

ARTICLE 6: CUSTOMER’S RESPONSIBILITIES

  • The Customer must provide accurate and complete information during the booking process (e.g., full name, contact details, travel dates).
  • The Customer must adhere to the agreed terms of the tour or service, including meeting points, schedules, and deadlines.
  • Any issues arising due to incorrect or incomplete information provided by the Customer may result in additional charges or service limitations.

ARTICLE 7: LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY

The Seller is not liable for delays or disruptions caused by external factors beyond its control, including but not limited to:

  1. Force majeure events (natural disasters, pandemics, government restrictions).
  2. Failures by third-party providers for transportation, accommodation, or similar services.

In such cases, the Seller’s liability is limited strictly to the total amount paid by the Customer under this Agreement.

ARTICLE 8: APPLICABLE LAW & DISPUTE RESOLUTION

  • This Agreement is governed by the laws of the Republic of Turkey.
  • Any disputes or concerns will first be handled amicably through direct communication between the parties.
  • If no resolution is achieved, the matter may be escalated to the Selçuk Consumer Arbitration Committee or the authorized courts where the Seller is headquartered.

ARTICLE 9: ACCEPTANCE OF TERMS

  • By completing the payment during the booking process, the Customer confirms that they have read, understood, and agreed to the terms outlined in this Agreement.
  • This Agreement constitutes a legally binding contract between the Customer and the Seller.

Date of Agreement

As the purchase date indicated during booking.

These terms and conditions govern the use of Ephesian Tourism & DMC’s website, located at https://ephesiantourism.com. By accessing or using this website or any of its services, you acknowledge that you agree to these terms and conditions. If you do not agree with any part of these terms, please refrain from using our services.

Definitions

  • Client, You, or Your: Refers to any individual accessing the website and agreeing to the Company’s terms and conditions.
  • The Company, Ourselves, We, Our, or Us: Refers to Ephesian Tourism & DMC.
  • Party, or Parties: Refers collectively to the Client and the Company.
  • Departure Date, Scheduled Tour Departure Date: Refers to the starting date of your travel services.

Booking Policy

Reservation Process

  • Reservations can be made through our website, email, WhatsApp, or phone.
  • A minimum deposit of 50% of the total cost is required at the time of booking.
  • The remaining balance must be paid no later than 30 days before the scheduled departure date.
  • For reservations made within 30 days of the departure date, the full package amount must be paid upon booking.
  • In certain cases, we may offer flexible deposit amounts or alternative payment deadlines based on the specific conditions of your booking. Any special arrangements, such as a reduced deposit or revised payment schedule, will be indicated on your invoice.
  • In such cases, please refer to the payment deadlines and details shown on your invoice, which will override our standard reservation policies. Ensure all payments align with the specific terms outlined in the file sent to you.

Important Payment Deadlines

  • To secure your booking, please ensure all payments are completed by the specified deadlines. Reservations not paid in full by the 30-day deadline may be canceled, and the initial deposit may be forfeited.
  • If you experience difficulties with payment schedules, please contact us directly for assistance.
  • In cases where alternative payment deadlines or special arrangements have been agreed upon, the deadlines specified in your invoice will take precedence over standard deadlines.
  • We encourage you to review your invoice carefully to avoid any confusion and ensure payments are made on time to secure your bookings.

Payment Methods

We offer the following convenient payment options:

  1. Bank Transfer:
    • A 50% deposit is required upfront to secure the reservation.
    • A 2% bank charge applies to both the deposit and the remaining balance.
  2. Online Credit Card Payment:
    • Enjoy fast and secure payments through our online payment system.
    • A 4% bank charge applies to both the deposit and remaining balances.
    • Only 3D Secure Credit Cards are accepted. 3D Secure adds an extra layer of protection against fraudulent activities by verifying cardholder identity through a One-Time Password (OTP) sent via SMS or email.
  3. Cash Upon Arrival:
    • Available only if explicitly approved by your travel specialist during the booking process.
    • No additional fees apply for this method.

Booking Confirmation

After payment is received, you will receive a confirmation email containing all booking details. If you do not receive confirmation within 24 hours, please contact us directly.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation Deadlines and Fees

The following cancellation penalties apply:

Notice Period Before DepartureCancellation Fee
More than 45 Days€150 per person (planning fee).
45-30 Days30% of the total cost OR €250 per person (whichever is higher).
29-15 Days50% of the total cost OR €250 per person (whichever is higher).
Less than 14 DaysNo refund (treated as a no-show).

Examples for Clarity:

  • For a total cost of €1,000 per person, canceling 35 days before departure will result in a penalty of €300 (30%).
  • For a total cost of €700 per person, canceling under the same conditions will result in a penalty of €250, as 30% (€210) is less than €250.

Refund Policy

  • Refunds for cancellations (when applicable) will be processed within up to 40 calendar days following the originally scheduled departure date.
  • Bank charges and transaction fees will be deducted from the refunded amount.

Exceptions

  1. Customized Tour Packages:
    • Personalized packages that include discounted, special rates, or non-refundable services are non-refundable, unless explicitly stated otherwise.
  2. Force Majeure (Emergencies):
    • Exceptional circumstances such as natural disasters, government-imposed restrictions, health emergencies, travel bans, or other uncontrollable events may warrant special consideration.
    • In such cases, refunds, postponements, or fee waivers may be offered at the Company’s discretion. Please contact us to discuss such scenarios.

Cancellation Request Procedure

Cancellations can be requested via email, phone, or WhatsApp. Please include your booking details for efficient processing.

Modification Policy

Flexible Modifications

  • Changes to reservations are allowed free of charge, up to 8 days before your scheduled departure date.
  • For tailor-made tour packages that include special arrangements such as accommodation, flight tickets, or other non-standard services, the specific terms and conditions for those services will apply. These may involve fees or restrictions depending on the policies of the third-party providers involved.

Postponements

  • Reservations may be postponed within the same travel season, subject to availability. Postponements during festival seasons, national holidays, or public holidays are excluded.
  • For packages involving flight tickets, additional fees may apply. Price differences arising due to seasonal changes will be communicated during your postponement request.

Changes in Guest Numbers

  • The final cost is calculated based on the number of adults and children confirmed at the time of booking.
  • Reducing the number of guests after booking may result in price adjustments. Confirmed prices are based on the initially declared group size.

Emergency Assistance

For last-minute emergencies requiring modifications, please contact our 24/7 support line. Our team will do its best to accommodate your needs.

Day Tour Itineraries

  • All day tour itineraries are subject to slight changes in the order of site visits. While we are committed to covering all the promised sites listed in the itinerary, the order in which sites are visited may vary based on local conditions, traffic, weather, or other logistical factors.
  • On the day of the tour, the tour guide will have full authority to make decisions regarding the best sequence of site visits to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all participants.
  • Rest assured, every effort will be made to ensure all scheduled sites and experiences are delivered by the end of the day.

Important Notices

  • Our booking, cancellation, and modification policies are subject to change without prior notice.
  • Customers are responsible for reviewing the most recent version of these terms before making payments or reservations.

Additional Recommendations

  • We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your booking against cancellations, schedule changes, or unforeseen emergencies.
  • For any disputes, we prioritize resolving them amicably before further legal action is pursued.

Legal Governance

These terms are governed in accordance with the laws of the Republic of Türkiye.

  • Any disputes will fall under the jurisdiction of the Türkiye Consumer Courts.

Need Assistance?

We’re committed to making your travel experience seamless and enjoyable. For any inquiries or further clarification, please feel free to contact us via:
Email: hello@ephesiantourism.com
Phone: +90 232 892 2264
WhatsApp: +90 540 374 3787