Istanbul Tours

Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey, is rich in historical and artistic resources, explore the top 15 things to do in private Istanbul tours.  It offer's such a beautiful diversity that even if you were in a position to read volumes of books about the city nothing would beat an Istanbul guided private tour.  It is the only way to explore the one city that lies in two continents, however desirable it may be to run through one of the comprehensive guides of the city, better to book a private tour to make your visit more enjoyable.

Let the activities begin!
Visit 2 Continents on a Bosphorus Cruise Full-Day Istanbul Tour with Lunch
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1051 reviews

Follow winding streets to domes, minarets and vibrant markets and famous landmarks on a full-day Istanbul Tour and then the chance to cruise along the famous Bosphorus.

From EURO
€130.00
11205 customer recommendations
9 to 10 hours Scheduling Shared Tour Istanbul
2 Day Private Ephesus & Pamukkale Tour From Istanbul
12345
1017 reviews

Our private Ephesus & Pamukkale tour from Istanbul is a 2-day 1-night tour that combines the Aegean pearls Ephesus and Pamukkale in one tour.

From USD
$600.00
Price varies by group size
10464 customer recommendations
2 days Scheduling Private Tour Istanbul
Istanbul Cruise Tour to the Princes Islands with Lunch
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1010 reviews

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city life and spend a day sailing, and visit the charming Prince's Islands on this relaxing Istanbul tour with a professional guide.

From EURO
€134.00
10591 customer recommendations
9 to 10 hours Scheduling Shared Tour Istanbul
Tantalise Your tastebuds On This Turkey Real Food Adventure Tour
Likely to Sell Out
Tantalise Your tastebuds On This Turkey Real Food Adventure Tour
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1009 reviews

Start and end in Istanbul with this food and culinary tour on a Turkey Real Food Adventure with a 10-day tour package and tasting the delights that are on offer.

From EURO
€5,700.00
10437 customer recommendations
10 days Scheduling Private Tour Lowest price guarantee
Refreshing 3-4 Hour Istanbul Turkish Bath Experience
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980 reviews

Try the traditional Turkish bath for a physical and spiritual cleansing experience. A combination of natural lighting and izonic tiles create a sense of calm.

From EURO
€235.60
€248.00 Save €12.40
10178 customer recommendations
3 to 4 hours Scheduling Shared Tour Istanbul
3 Day Tour to The Mesmerising Cappadocia and Pamukkale From Istanbul
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936 reviews

With this fantastic tour package, you will get to explore the highlights of Turkey in 3 Days where you will visit 2 of the most famous sights Cappadocia and Pamukkale.

From EURO
€1,338.10
Price varies by group size
9809 customer recommendations
3 days Scheduling Private Tour Cappadocia
4 Day Turkey Tour: Cappadocia, Ephesus and Pamukkale from Istanbul
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932 reviews

The 4 Day Turkey Tour: Cappadocia, Ephesus and Pamukkale, giving you the chance to experience the ancient wonders of Turkey.

From USD
$249.00
Price varies by group size
9703 customer recommendations
4 days Scheduling Shared Tour Izmir
Embark on an Unforgettable 2-Day Journey: Ephesus and Pamukkale Tour from Istanbul
Likely to Sell Out
Embark on an Unforgettable 2-Day Journey: Ephesus and Pamukkale Tour from Istanbul
12345
928 reviews

Explore ancient Ephesus, the Virgin Mary's House, and Pamukkale’s stunning travertines on this 2-day tour with flights, expert guides, and local cuisine.

From USD
$1,850.00
9441 customer recommendations
2 days Scheduling Private Tour Lowest price guarantee
Private Ephesus Day Tour from Istanbul
Likely to Sell Out
Private Ephesus Day Tour from Istanbul
12345
921 reviews

Travel from Istanbul to Ephesus in one day to explore ancient wonders and enjoy a guided journey through history, including guided tours, flights, and local cuisine.

From USD
$468.00
9785 customer recommendations
13 to 15 hours Scheduling Private Tour Lowest price guarantee
See the Sparkling Jewels of Turkey on a 8 Day Tour from Istanbul
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875 reviews

Exploring the beautiful jewels of the magnificent country of Turkey and discover the highlights without any hassle or stress in this eight days tour from Istanbul.

From EURO
€2,356.00
Price varies by group size
8771 customer recommendations
8 days Scheduling Private Tour Istanbul
Gallipoli Full Day Trip from Istanbul
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855 reviews

Experience sombre battlefields and historic World War I memorial sites, during this Gallipoli Day Trip from Istanbul.

From EURO
€70.00
Price varies by group size
9152 customer recommendations
14 to 16 hours Scheduling Shared Tour Istanbul
Cradle of Civilizations 4-Day Tour
12345
840 reviews

On this exciting 4-day tour you will get to see some fantastic sights in Turkey including the Mesmerising Fairy Chimneys in Cappadocia and the Whirling Dervishes in Konya.

From EURO
€1,282.00
Price varies by group size
8783 customer recommendations
4 days Scheduling Private Tour Istanbul
2-Day Troy and Gallipoli Tour from Istanbul
12345
820 reviews

The 2-Day Troy and Gallipoli Tour from Istanbul gives you the chance to go back in time and discover two of Turkey’s most memorable sites.

From EURO
€266.00
Price varies by group size
8761 customer recommendations
2 days Scheduling Shared Tour Istanbul
Istanbul to Ephesus: A Day of History and Flavor
12345
806 reviews

Experience Turkey's rich history and cuisine with this private tour, combining a visit to ancient Ephesus and traditional Turkish flavors.

From USD
$590.00
Price varies by group size
8267 customer recommendations
12 to 14 Scheduling Private Tour Istanbul
Half Day Group Tour of Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace in Istanbul
12345
800 reviews

Come and join our half-day Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace Tour to get the most out of these most extended highlights in the company of our expert tour guide.

From EURO
€176.00
Price varies by group size
8382 customer recommendations
4 to 6 hours Scheduling Private Tour Istanbul
Private LGBT Ephesus Tour from Istanbul
12345
790 reviews

Our Private Gay-friendly LGBT Ephesus Tours from Istanbul are one of a kind in terms of its Gay-Friendliness, the flexibility in the pace of the tour and

From USD
$390.00
Price varies by group size
8497 customer recommendations
12 to 14 hours Scheduling Private Tour Lowest price guarantee
The Istanbul Tour with a Bosphorus Cruise and visits to the Dolmabahce Palace
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785 reviews

Admire beautiful architecture and capture stunning views of famous palaces during a full-day Istanbul Tour with the Bosphorus Cruise and Dolmabahce Palace.

From EURO
€130.00
8254 customer recommendations
7 to 9 hours Scheduling Shared Tour Istanbul
All-Inclusive Ephesus Day Tour Starting and Ending in Istanbul
Likely to Sell Out
All-Inclusive Ephesus Day Tour Starting and Ending in Istanbul
12345
752 reviews

Discover the ancient wonders of Ephesus with our all-inclusive day tour from Istanbul. Enjoy flights, private transport, a guide, lunch, and seamless convenience!

From USD
$390.00
Price varies by group size
7881 customer recommendations
13 to 15 Scheduling Private Tour Istanbul
Mix History with Sandy Beaches On This Aegean Flavours Tour
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745 reviews

Begin in Istanbul and end in Dalaman with this in-depth cultural and Aegean flavours tour where you will mix history and sandy beaches and includes a 4 days mini cruise.

From EURO
€2,026.00
Price varies by group size
7959 customer recommendations
10 days Scheduling Semi-Private Tour Istanbul
Wonderful Turkey with Incredible Sights on a 11 Day Tour
12345
740 reviews

On this fantastic 11 days, tour of Turkey, see some of the best sights Turkey has to offer including Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, Pamukkale and the beautiful Antalya.

From EURO
€2,816.00
Price varies by group size
7795 customer recommendations
11 days Scheduling Private Tour Istanbul
Topkapi Palace
1 The Topkapı Palace is considered to be one of the most unique and important architectural sites in Turkey.  The Palace was adapted into a museum after the declaration of the Republic.  Many rulers through history made various additions and alterations to the magnificent Palace, so it increased in size and opulence right up to the XIXth Century.  It stands on one of the seven hills of Istanbul and has a comprehensive archive where many documents and certificates of high historical
Hagia Sophia
2 On a guided private tour of Hagia Sophia Church appreciate the architects' genius and enter church slowly take it all in as you look through the emperor's Imperial Door into the sanctuary. There's a unique lodge for the Sultan where he could enter and leave without being seen.  The mihrab is not centered in the apse because it must point directly toward Mecca, imagine what it must have been like with all of the glass oil lamps lit around the dome.
Blue Mosque
3 Inside you'll see that the Blue Mosque gets its name from over 21,000 pieces of faience covering the walls. The many windows, painting on the ceiling, and the colour of the tiles give the mosque an airy quality that's ruined only partially by the massive pillars the architect found necessary to hold up the dome.  For women whose clothing doesn't meet strict standards, there are robes available at the entrance, free of charge.
Basilica Cistern
4 Across the street from Hagia Sophia, under a little park on Divan Yolu, is the Cistern Basilica (Yerebatan Saray in Turkish the Sunken Palace).  On a guided private tour you can walk downstairs and out onto a platform that is built above the water.  The views from the platform are unique but the scenic views are amazing, and a must see on any sightseeing tour.
The Grand Bazaar
5 The Grand Bazaar Istanbul is a little city inside the city proper.  The number of streets and alleyways are countless with fountains, masjids (small mosques), food stalls, street traders and everything else to serve the daily needs of those that spend all day there.  A Grand Bazaar guided private tour shopping trip is a unique experience and a must-do when you are in Istanbul. 
Dolmabahçe Palace
6 The  Dolmabahçe Palace previously owned by the heir to the throne has now been converted into a museum with magnificent paintings and statues.  Take a sightseeing private tour of the Palace and as you walk throughout the halls, see the paintings of noted artists on exhibition brought home by Sultan Abdülaziz on one of his trips to Europe. Also noted for the place where Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Turkish Republic, died here in 1938. 
Galata Tower
8 The Galata Tower was used by as a lookout for Galata and Istanbul to prevent the entry of the fleet to the Golden Horn.  Today, the Galata Tower is viewed as a typical spy-tower from the Middle Ages.  Climb to the upper floors, and you can see the spectacular views of the Golden Horn and the city of Istanbul, perfect Galata private tours are freely available. There is a restaurant and a nightclub frequented by tourists and the Istanbul society.  
Süleymaniye Mosque
9 Süleymaniye Mosque on a guided private tour is one of the most beautiful mosques in Islamic culture.  It was built by Mimar Sinan for Kanunî Sultan Süleyman during the years 1550 to 1557. It is a triumph for Mimar Sinan, the great Turkish architect, due to its location since the city takes its silhouette from this mosque. The charm of the interior planning and the elegance of the exterior design is breathtaking. 
Hippodrome of Constantinople
10 See the Hippodrome on private tour it is one of the oldest built in the city, dating from before the time of Constantine.  The first object you pass is a fountain pre-Hagia Sophia send by Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany.  Next, one of the most interesting decorations in the Hippodrome, an obelisk dating from the 15th century B.C., initially from Egypt, brought to Constantinople by the Emperor Theodosius has his figure carved on the pedestal.
Chora Church
11 The beautiful Church of the Holy Savior (Chora Church) sightseeing guided private tour is one of the most unique Byzantine churches in modern day history.  Built in the 5th century, as part of a monastery complex that stood outside the old city walls of Constantinople hence the Church was named "Chora" which loosely translates to the word "outside".  See the gorgeous mosaics and frescoes that represents the best of the Palaeogian Renaissance. 
Maiden's Tower
12 The Maiden Tower is said to have been built in the time of Constantine, also called the "Leander Tower", take a guided private tour and learn about the famous legend of the tower.  The Legend goes that Emperor Constantine had a beautiful baby girl, and a sorcerer told the emperor that his daughter would die from a snake bite.   To save his daughter the emperor built the tower in the middle of the sea which became known as the "Maiden's Tower".
Pierre Loti Tepesi
14 Take a guiding sightseeing private tour and see the best view of the Golden Horn Istanbul by cable car.  From Ayub Mosque to the top of the hill the panoramic views are spectacular.  With an excellent coffee shop and an outdoor relaxation area, you can't go to Istanbul without visiting Pierre Loti.  It is also a super place to have Turkish tea and watch the amazing sunsets.
Spice Bazaar
15 On a private tour of the famous Istanbul spice bazaar constructed in the sixteen hundred's, you will see the amazing multicoloured spices displayed alongside many other unique Turkish food stalls.  The market has a lot to offer tourists from fantastic street food to honey, caviar, dried fruits and nuts.  Have some fun with the vendors about the prices and sample everything on offer your taste buds won't know what hit them.    

Travel Tips for Istanbul

Istanbul is generally pretty safe and petty crime is low. However, be careful around the Old Town as pickpocketing and bag snatching can happen. Avoid hanging out solo in Taksim late at night (after 10 pm), especially on the main street Istikal Cadessi. It is also advisable to not go solo there on the weekends.

So, how long should you stay in Istanbul? Give the city, at least three days if you're coming for the first time. Three days in Istanbul will enable you to see the city's most renowned sights but anticipate a jam-packed schedule if you want to make the most of your time there!

The peak-season months (with the best weather) are from mid-April to June and September to October. During the off-season, you can generally find better deals and smaller crowds, the weather is usually good, and all the sights are open.

This unique city which is admired by its charming nature and the attractive atmosphere is also the symbol of dynamic and modern city life. Istanbul has a multicultural texture and a lively atmosphere that melts the past and future in a single pot which provides a sense of universal history at every step.

So, is Istanbul worth visiting? Definitely, yes! Especially if you're a history enthusiast, Istanbul screams timeless history from every nook and corner. The banks of the mighty Bosporus have witnessed civilizations evolve and wither in the quicksand of time.

The Grand Bazaar was constructed in 1455 as a center for local trade of clothing and jewels. Ottoman Sultan Fatih Sultan Mehmet, commonly known as Mehmed the Conqueror, ordered the construction of two stone buildings where merchants could sell their products and make a profit for the Hagia Sofia Mosque.