Private Tour
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Join me for an unforgettable journey through the historic Sultanahmet area, the beating heart of Istanbul, where the echoes of empires and the allure of ancient architecture captivate every visitor. This comprehensive tour is designed to immerse you in the rich history, culture, and beauty of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks.
Book your tour today and embark on a journey through the ages!
Wheelchair accessible
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays.
Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.
Carrying cash is advised to skip the line in some places.
When visiting mosques, men should cover their knees, and women should cover their hair with a scarf, shoulders, and legs.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Hippodrome
Discover the Ancient Heart of Istanbul: Step into history of the Hippodrome, the ancient sporting and social center of Istanbul and hear captivating stories and secrets from an expert local guide, bringing the ancient site to life.
Blue Mosque
Unveil the Splendor of Istanbul through one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks, the Blue Mosque. Admire the intricate designs, grand dome, and beautiful calligraphy that adorn the mosque's interior. As you gain deep insights from an experienced local guide who will share captivating stories and lesser-known facts.
Licensed Tour Guide
(Use of public transportation depends on the location of your accommodation and your preference.)
Tickets for Hagia Sophia
Tickets for Topkapi Palace
Tickets for Basilica Cistern
Lunch
Select a pickup point
Walking: Your guide will meet you at your hotel, cruise port (Galataport), Airbnbs or a central location.
Pickup included
33 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Jonathon2345,Mar 30, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
We didn’t seek a tour obsessed with dates and dusty facts, just someone to guide us casually through Istanbul’s ancient streets. And that’s precisely what Batu delivered. The stroll flowed so effortlessly, blending the hum of daily life with quiet corners we’d never have noticed alone. The past didn’t feel like a lecture but a conversation, snippets of history tossed in with such ease we actually listened. Football chatter. Jokes. A sense of familiarity, like wandering with an old pal rather than a scripted guide. Would we recommend him? Absolutely.


intoxicationxxx,Mar 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
It was our first time in Istanbul, and to be honest, we decided to skip some places because of the prices. But overall, we were really happy with the experience. The guide explained everything about the city and the country in a very engaging way, and we never felt bored, so we ended up learning a lot not just about Istanbul, but in general as well. Big thanks to him, definitely would recommend! PS: He also gave us some great tips for restaurants and nightlife around the city.
Edward W,Mar 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
Ali showed up on time at our meeting place and we worked out an itinerary that addressed our couple constrains, namely, our tour finish time and the need for lunch. So, we agreed on skipping couple highlights and had a great lunch outside the Grand Bazaar. Ali is knowledgeable about Turkey's and Islam's histories and he shared a lot of this personal experiences which made the tour more satisfying.
rafaelbolton,Feb 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Even though it was the low season and the weather was cold, it actually made the experience much better. We have seen the Hippodrome, Basilica Cistern, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar without long lines or heavy crowds. Everything felt relaxed and well organized. Our guide was very knowledgeable and explained each site clearly. When we wanted to buy something, he gave us honest advice and guided us to the right places. Overall, it was a very smooth, enjoyable, and efficient tour. Thanks Batu for a pleasant day.



bernardolL5723UJ,Jan 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Great Istanbul tour with an extremely knowledgeable guide. The explanations were clear and engaging, and everything felt well organized. The restaurant recommendation was excellent with delicious local food and reasonable prices. A very enjoyable and informative way to explore Istanbul. Highly recommended.
Aziz A,Jan 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Although I don't know Turkish and English very well, the trip made sense to me and the tour guide patiently explained some of the history of Istanbul's various regions. It was a rare experience for me, thanking him for adding indelible memories.
766shamj,Dec 31, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We did the walking tour on New Year’s Eve, it was quite crowded but Batu managed the situation really well , he knew when to change itinerary so we weren’t waiting in line too long and when we did have to wait his excellent knowledge of the history of the area kept us all engaged. 10/10 would recommend
passionp611,Dec 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Batu is a great guide. He shares the historical trivia of the place in a flowing manner. He paces the tour according to the interest of his guests. My husband and I had a great day because Batu made it so.













Magnus1968,Dec 18, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Batu took us round all the major sites of Istanbul on an interesting and enjoyable day trip visiting all the ‘must do’s’ of thus fabulous city - the Badilica Sistern, Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia all amazing. He tailored the experience to our requirements, rescheduled the order to minimise queues and maximise time spent at each place, and provided the perfect balance of historical information, local interest knowledge and humour. Very responsive and receptive to our preferences, and took us to a wonderful and very affordable local restaurant for a delicious lunch. Great English, great communications and great fun. Highly recommended for a great day of exploration in beautiful Istanbul.
Travel27483566297,Dec 15, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We have done the Istanbul tour with Batu in October. I would highly recommend Batu. He was very friendly and well organised. We didn't have much time. He picked us up at the cruise terminal and had the car ready for us. He managed to take us to visit the blue mosque, hagia sophia, basilica cistern and grand plaza in a leisurely pace. He is very knowledgeable and gave us a lot of interesting stuff about each sites. He took the trouble taking us for a drink and late lunch in the local restaurant. Really enjoyed the tour and talking to him about Turkiye. Felt like having a friend to take us around.
Operated by Guide Batu