Istanbul Private Guided Tour

Duration
  • 8 Hours
Tour Type
  • Private Guided
Activity Level
  • Medium
Season
  • All Year Round
blue mosque
We'll visit grand bazaar at our Istanbul guided tour
Night view of blue mosque
Aerial view of Topkapi Palace
Night view of Blue mosque
grand bazaar visit at our Istanbul guided tour
blue mosque
We'll visit Sultan's tombs at our Istanbul guided tour
We'll visit Hagia Sophia at our Istanbul guided tour
Tour Theme
  • Cultural
  • ·
  • Historical
Perfect for
  • Family
  • ·
  • Friends
  • ·
  • Groups

Tour Description

Istanbul is a must-visit destination in Turkey, with its rich history and cultural charm attracting millions of tourists annually. To fully immerse yourself in the city’s past, consider taking a walking tour. Our Istanbul Guided Tour is highly recommended, as it offers a comprehensive and educational experience that covers all the major landmarks and attractions in the city. This tour allows you to truly feel the authentic atmosphere of Istanbul as you stroll through its streets.

Full-Day Private Istanbul Tour

On this walking tour, you will be picked up from your hotel in the morning and transported to the meeting point by a comfortable car. There, you will meet the professional tour guide who will lead you on a journey through the Sultan Ahmet Centre, providing interesting and informative commentary along the way. As you walk through this historical area, you will visit a variety of major landmarks and points of interest. This tour allows you to experience the rich culture and history of Istanbul in an immersive and interactive way.

The first stop on the tour is the Hippodrome, an ancient sporting arena that was used during the Byzantine period. Here, you can see several historical monuments, including the German Fountain of Wilhelm II, the Column of Constantine, the Serpentine Column, and the Egyptian Obelisk. Next, the tour continues to the Blue Mosque, a stunning and iconic place of worship that is known for its beautiful blue-tiled interior. Please note that the Blue Mosque is an active place of worship and is therefore not open to visitors on Fridays. This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore some of Istanbul’s most iconic and historically significant sites.

Located next to the Blue Mosque, the Hagia Sophia is another important historical monument in Istanbul. This massive church was built by Constantine the Great during the Byzantine era and is now a museum that attracts millions of visitors each year due to its rich history and stunning architectural design. Please note that the Hagia Sophia is closed on Mondays, so on that day, tour participants will visit the Underground Cistern instead. This underground structure is a fascinating and unique attraction that offers a glimpse into the city’s past.

Istanbul Guided Tour

After exploring the city center’s major landmarks, the tour continues with a visit to the Grand Bazaar, a bustling and vibrant marketplace that is known for its size and variety of offerings. With over 4,000 small shops, the bazaar is a treasure trove of unique handicrafts, spices, clothing, and souvenirs. This is the perfect place to hone your bargaining skills and take home a piece of Istanbul’s rich culture and history. The Grand Bazaar is a must-see attraction on any visit to the city.

After exploring the Grand Bazaar, you will take a break for lunch at a local restaurant near the marketplace. This is a great opportunity to relax and take in the lively atmosphere of the city center. Recharged and refreshed, you will then walk to the Sultans’ Tombs, a series of five tombs that contain the remains of Ottoman Sultans. These tombs are known for their beautiful 16th century ceramic panels, which feature intricate flower motifs and a range of colors. As you walk through the tombs, you can also observe the other interesting covers that are placed on the sarcophagi. This tour offers a unique and educational experience that allows you to learn about Istanbul’s rich history and cultural traditions.

The final stop on this guided walking tour is the Topkapi Palace, a former residence of the Ottoman sultans that now serves as a museum. At the palace, you can explore a collection of precious gems and jewelry, sultans’ costumes, and other important artifacts from the 15th to the 19th century. This tour offers a unique opportunity to learn about the history and culture of Istanbul and the Ottoman Empire through its rich and fascinating collections.

After completing the tour of the Topkapi Palace, you will return to your hotel by a comfortable and modern bus. The estimated arrival time at the hotel is in the afternoon. This exciting and educational walking tour is a must-do activity during your vacation in Istanbul and will surely be an unforgettable experience.

Experience the authentic atmosphere of Istanbul’s city center on an exceptional walking tour. The Byzantine & Ottoman Relics Tour is the perfect choice for those who want to learn about the city’s rich history and culture. This full-day excursion is designed to provide interesting and informative insights into the city’s past and is sure to leave you with lasting memories. Join this tour and discover some of Istanbul’s most iconic monuments while immersing yourself in the vibrant and dynamic culture of the city.

Istanbul Guided 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
Sultans’ Tombs
Topkapi Palace
Grand Bazaar

Departure Location

Istanbul Hotels

Inclusions

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

On this walking tour, you will be picked up from your hotel in the morning by a comfortable vehicle and transported to the meeting point. There, you will meet your professional tour guide, who is an expert on the city’s history and culture. This experienced guide will lead you on a journey through some of Istanbul’s most important landmarks and points of interest, providing informative and engaging commentary along the way. This is a great opportunity to learn about the city’s rich history and culture in an immersive and interactive way.

09:30Hippodrome

The first stop on this walking tour is the Hippodrome, a historic sporting arena that was used during the Byzantine period. The surrounding area is home to four major monuments, including the Egyptian Obelisk, the Column of Constantine, the Serpentine Column, and the German Fountain of Wilhelm II. During your time at the Hippodrome, you will have the opportunity to admire these impressive structures and learn about their history and significance. This tour offers a unique and educational experience that allows you to explore some of Istanbul’s most iconic and historically significant sites.

10:00Blue Mosque

After visiting the Hippodrome, the tour will continue to the Blue Mosque, one of the most visited and important mosques in Turkey. As an active place of worship, the Blue Mosque is a true marvel of interior design, with its walls adorned with beautiful blue tiles. Your tour guide will provide interesting and informative commentary about the history and significance of this iconic place as you explore its interior. This tour offers a unique opportunity to learn about Istanbul’s rich cultural and religious traditions.

10:30Hagia Sophia

The tour continues with a visit to the Hagia Sophia, a massive and iconic monument that was built in the 4th century by Constantine the Great and reconstructed in the 6th century. Today, it is one of the most visited monuments in Turkey and a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Istanbul. The impressive size and rich history of the Hagia Sophia are sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit. This tour offers a unique and educational experience that allows you to explore some of Istanbul’s most iconic and historically significant sites.

11:00Grand Bazaar

After visiting these iconic landmarks, the tour continues with a visit to the Grand Bazaar, a bustling and vibrant marketplace that is a must-see for anyone visiting Istanbul. With over 4,000 small shops located in narrow, labyrinthine paths, the Grand Bazaar is a treasure trove of unique clothing, handicrafts, street food, and souvenirs. This is the perfect place to exercise your bargaining skills and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the city. The Grand Bazaar is a must-see attraction that offers a unique and exciting experience for all who visit.

13:00Lunch

After exploring the Grand Bazaar, you will take a break for lunch at a local restaurant in the area. This is a great opportunity to relax and enjoy a tasty meal before continuing with the rest of the tour. Take the time to recharge your energy and get ready to experience more of Istanbul’s rich history and culture.

14:00Sultans’ Tombs

After the lunch break, the tour continues with a visit to the Sultans’ Tombs monument, where you will see five tombs from the 16th century. The intricate ceramic panels and decorative covers on the sarcophagi are among the highlights of this attraction. As you explore this historical site, your tour guide will provide interesting and informative commentary about the tombs and their significance. This tour offers a unique and educational experience that allows you to learn about Istanbul’s rich history and cultural traditions.

14:30Topkapi Palace

The final stop on this tour is the Topkapi Palace, a former residence of the Ottoman Sultans that is now a museum. Visitors can tour the palace and explore its various rooms, as well as a collection of Ottoman artifacts such as jewelry, precious stones, and costumes. The Topkapi Palace is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in the history and culture of Istanbul and the Ottoman Empire. This tour offers a unique and educational experience that allows you to learn about the city’s rich history and cultural traditions.

17:00 Return Back

After the final stop at the Topkapi Palace, you will return to your hotel by modern vehicle. This walking tour is a truly memorable and educational experience that allows you to explore some of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks and learn about the city’s rich history and culture. This excursion is sure to be an unforgettable journey through time.

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