Private Tour
Private Istanbul Highlights Tour Iconic Landmarks
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Discover the heart of Istanbul with a fully private guided Old City highlights tour designed for a personalized and flexible experience. Explore the most iconic landmarks of the historic peninsula in a carefully planned route including Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, and the Grand Bazaar, while learning the rich history of both the Byzantine and Ottoman empires.
Unlike group tours, this experience allows you to move at your own pace, ask questions freely, and enjoy a more comfortable and intimate exploration of Istanbul’s Old City.
This tour is perfect for visitors who want to experience the essential highlights of Istanbul in a limited time with a knowledgeable local guide.
Additional Info
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.
Please be aware that if you choose to start the tour after noon, some locations may not be visited due to their closing hours.
What To Expect
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.
What‘s Included
Licensed Tour Guide
(Use of public transportation depends on the location of your accommodation and your preference.)
Lunch
Museum Entrance Fees
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Options
Private Walking Tour
Walking: Your guide will meet you at your hotel, cruise port (Galataport), Airbnbs or designated meeting points. Pickup included
Private Tour & Transfer
Mercedes Vito: Vehicle is used for pickup & drop-off only. The tour itself is a walking tour through the pedestrian-only Old City. Pickup included
Reviews
44 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great experience with Batuhan
serhate716,May 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an amazing experience visiting the in Istanbul with our guide Batuhan. He was incredibly knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about the history of the place. Thanks to him, the tour was not only informative but also very enjoyable. He explained everything clearly and made the atmosphere even more special with interesting stories and details. I highly recommend him to anyone visiting Istanbul!
Thoughtful and knowledgeable
P6847MAmicheles,May 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00My guide Batu is very thoughtful & accommodating, when my flight got delayed and my arrival time was unclear. He had planned the routes to avoid closure, and with stops at key points of interests to explain background & history. Plus answer to questions and great intellectual conversations about landmarks, history, current events..etc. For someone who doesn’t have much time in Istanbul and knowing little about Istanbul & Turkey, Batu is your guy!!
Thank you, Batu!
Karine B,May 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We really recommend this well-organized tour, with clear and precise explanations from our guide, Batu. We were able to avoid the waits at the entrances of the sites. Batu was very attentive to what interested us and perfectly adapted our program. Thank you again, Batu!
Excellent experience for first time in Istanbul
Elisabete F,May 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The guide Batu was punctual. Advised to start a little earlier to avoid crowds. Please facilitate the purchase of tickets for the planned activities. We were lucky, as we did not wait long to enter the Cisterna. Good lunch, good company. I recommend.
Private tour through Istanbul attractions
274gorand,May 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Balu was a wonderful guide, and this tour through Istanbul attractions was more than a pleasurable experience. He gave me all the historical facts about the places we visited, and he explained them so eloquently. I can't recommend it more; it was a fun and positive experience.
Unforgettable Tour For All Of Us
614muharremt,May 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our family signed up for the Old City tour in Istanbul. An incredible adventure from beginning to end. Impeccably planned, perfectly paced for all ages. The guide is a young man with expertise and warmth. Sharing important historical details while ensuring everyone involved. Above all, the shopping tips proved invaluable, guiding us to genuine souvenirs without the hassle of haggling. No inflated prices, no tourist traps. Just honest, quality crafts. And then the eatery. A charming local restaurant tucked filled with locals. Authentic flavors, vibrant ambiance like stepping into a secret culinary paradise we’d never have stumbled upon solo. Unforgettable for all of us. A must for any visitor to Istanbul. Without question. Would do it again in a heartbeat.
Great walking tour in Istanbul
Lisa B,Apr 25, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Muti arrived at our hotel right on time to begin our day. He gave us great background information about the sites we visited, including showing us images that helped to illuminate the history of the sites on a tablet he brought with him. He really let us set the pace of the tour; he suggested coffee and lunch breaks to cut down on fatigue, for which we were grateful. Overall it was a great way to see the highlights of the old city.
Wonderful experience in İstanbul
B3142QSburako,Apr 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our guide Batu was amazing. He showed us all highlights of Old city in İstanbul. He is very knowledgeable and best guide in the city
mr walking encyclopedia
Kayra K,Apr 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00waow waow waow what a great tour it was… Mr Batu the great was a amazing guide he was equipped with all kind of information, about turkey, history, archeologhy and even anthropology
Nice Tour
Martin1669,Apr 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00As we walked through Istanbul, we visited multiple prominent historical locations. For instance we have visited the Blue Mosque, there is also the Hagia Sophia on the itinerary, To see one of the ancient markets in the history, we went to see the Grand Bazaar also visiting the Basilica Cistern, we saw an ancient water storage system. It is the most notable part of the trip because of its scale. In the underground space, the air feels cool. There are many tall stone pillars supporting the roof. Because the setting is old and distinct, it leaves a lasting impact. Batu is the guide, he explains the facts of each location. When he speaks his tone is welcoming. By explaining the past events of each site, he clarifies their importance. With his assistance, the process of learning is easy. To see the major areas of the city, people should choose this excursion. It is a practical method for people to study the primary landmarks. If Batu is the guide, the quality of the visit is high. On this tour the historical details are clear. And the experience stays in the memory of the participants.
Related Experiences
Operated by Istanbul Untold Tours