Private Tour
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Your Private Istanbul Journey: More than a tour, it's a soul-stirring exploration, exclusively for your family/friends.
Escape the crowds and truly connect with Istanbul. The licensed private guides unlock history's secrets at iconic sites like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, transforming ancient stones into captivating stories just for you.
Experience the heart of Istanbul on a Bosphorus ferry journey, where breathtaking views unfold. For an elevated experience, a private yacht option is available upon request.
This isn't just sightseeing; it's a tailor-made immersion where every moment is crafted for wonder. Create lifelong memories as Istanbul’s vibrant pulse resonates with your spirit.
Book your exclusive escape and transform your Istanbul dreams into an unforgettable reality.
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, famously known as the Blue Mosque, is an iconic historical mosque located in Istanbul, Turkey. Commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I, it was constructed between 1609 and 1616 by the architect Sedefkâr Mehmed Ağa. Its popular name, "Blue Mosque," comes from the thousands of handmade blue Iznik tiles that adorn its interior, creating a mesmerizing blue hue, especially when lit. Unique for having six minarets, the mosque is a magnificent example of classical Ottoman architecture and continues to function as an active house of worship today, while also being one of Istanbul's most prominent tourist attractions.
Hippodrome
The Hippodrome of Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) was once the vibrant heart of the city's public life, serving as a grand arena for chariot races, gladiatorial games, and public ceremonies during the Roman and Byzantine Empires. Constructed in the 3rd century AD and expanded significantly by Emperor Constantine the Great in the 4th century, it was designed in the shape of a U with tiered seating, capable of holding tens of thousands of spectators. Though most of its original structure is gone, the modern-day Sultanahmet Square largely occupies its former site and still features several significant ancient monuments that once adorned its spina (middle barrier). These include the Egyptian Obelisk of Thutmose III, the Serpent Column (from Delphi), and the Walled Obelisk. Today, it stands as an open public space, allowing visitors to walk upon the ground where emperors once watched thrilling spectacles.
Professional guidance service in English
Museum entrance fees are not included in the tour price.
Lunch
Gratuities
13 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
998asumana,,Dec 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We booked the “Unforgettable Istanbul Private Journey” tour in late October 2025, and it exceeded our expectations. Our guide was very knowledgeable and spoke perfect English — she explained the history of each site in detail, gave us context about how Istanbul evolved through Byzantine and Ottoman times, and even pointed out lesser-known corners hidden from typical tourist groups. We loved that the tour included public transport and that we could skip the hassle of planning logistics ourselves. Although entrance fees were extra, we felt that the convenience, the guide’s expertise, and the flow of the day made the overall experience totally worth it. Istanbul felt alive with stories and beauty, and this tour helped us see it through the eyes of a local. Highly recommended!🙂
cankB6119AD,,Oct 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
What impressed me the most in this round was the light games reflected on the surface of the water. It was as if the waves were slowing down time. It is one of the rare places that makes me feel lonely even though I am in a crowd. At the end of the tour, I sat quietly and just listened to the atmosphere for a while. I turned to myself in this underground palace where the emperors once stepped on. It is not enough to see Hagia Sophia, it is necessary to feel the Basilica. The tour with our guide definitely makes a difference; learning that every column, every stone has a story, completely changed my perspective. If you find your way to this treasure hidden under Istanbul, stop, look and listen, not just wander. Silence sometimes tells the most things. Lots of love to our guide, we are grateful for creating this unforgettable tour for us.
583b ranura,,Oct 16, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Visiting the Basilica Cistern was like stepping into a fantasy world! The lighting, the reflections on the water, and the mysterious atmosphere were just mesmerizing. Our tour guide brought the place to life with incredible stories and fun facts. I couldn’t stop taking photos! If you’re in Istanbul, don’t miss this magical underground wonder. Truly one of the highlights of my trip!
V8175OCh seyina,,Oct 15, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
I had visited Topkapı Palace before, but this time, with our guide, the tour became a completely different experience one that broke all expectations and brought to life the human stories hidden behind the palace’s cold stone walls. Rather than just listing dry historical facts, our guide was like a “palace chronicle storyteller.” We’re truly grateful for this memorable and engaging experience.
Happiness13354566332,,Sep 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
The Topkapi Palace tour was truly a fascinating journey through history! Every courtyard and every room felt like it was telling its own story. You could feel the grandeur and attention to detail of the Ottoman Empire at every step. But what made the experience truly special was our tour guide. Their storytelling was both informative and entertaining — it felt like watching a historical movie come to life. They answered all our questions patiently, kept the group engaged, and made the whole tour interactive. It was one of those rare tours where I both learned a lot and had a great time. If you're visiting Istanbul, Topkapi Palace is a must-see — and if possible, explore it with such an amazing guide!"
449elanurp,,Sep 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
The Bosphorus tour was absolutely EPIC! From the jaw dropping views of Istanbul’s iconic skyline to the sparkling bridges and charming seaside mansions, every moment was pure magic. Our tour guide was super friendly, full of fun facts, and kept the energy high the whole time. If you want to experience Istanbul like never before, this tour is an absolute MUST! Can’t recommend it enough total game changer
G7829IT zlem ,,Sep 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
The Hagia Sophia tour was absolutely amazing! I was impressed the moment we stepped through the doors. You can feel history all around you as soon as you enter. Our guide was full of energy and captivated us with their knowledge. They shared every detail with such excitement that we didn’t just visit we experienced it! The mosaics, domes, minarets… each with a unique story. Exploring such an iconic site with such a passionate guide made it all the more enjoyable. A must-do tour for anyone visiting Istanbul!
Akate3322,,Sep 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Exploring Istanbul’s Sultanahmet district with Lütfig as our guide was an absolute highlight of my trip. Lütfig brings history to life with his incredible knowledge and storytelling skills. He didn’t just recite facts — he painted vivid pictures of the past, helping us truly understand the significance of each site we visited. His ability to connect historical context with engaging anecdotes made the tour memorable from start to finish. He was also incredibly personable — warm, humorous, and genuinely passionate about what he does. You can tell he enjoys sharing his city’s history, and that enthusiasm is contagious. His sense of humor kept the group smiling, and his approachable nature made it easy to ask questions and interact throughout the tour. What impressed me most was how confidently he guided us through every part of the tour. Whether we were standing in front of the Hagia Sophia, wandering through the Hippodrome, or discovering a hidden gem, Lütfig knew exactly what to share and when. It felt like he had complete command of both the content and the flow of the experience. If you're looking for an insightful, well-organized, and genuinely enjoyable tour of Istanbul’s historic heart, I highly recommend booking with Lütfig. It’s a must-do!
neds377,,Sep 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
The Sultanahmet tour was an incredible experience, full of historical and cultural richness. Thanks to our guide’s deep knowledge and engaging storytelling, we felt truly immersed in every corner of this iconic part of the city. From the Blue Mosque to Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern, each site was brought to life with fascinating details and historical context. Our guide’s professionalism and warm approach made the entire tour unforgettable. I highly recommend this tour to anyone interested in exploring the heart of Istanbul’s history!
U7658YRahmet ,,Sep 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We had the privilege of experiencing a private tour of Istanbul with Ludviq, and it was truly exceptional from start to finish. Communication before the tour was smooth and professional, and the itinerary was carefully tailored to match our interests and pace. Throughout the day, we explored Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks—Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar—while also discovering hidden corners and local spots that we would have never found on our own. Ludviq’s knowledge of history, art, and culture is outstanding, but what impressed us even more was his ability to bring the stories of the city to life in a way that felt engaging, meaningful, and relevant. The private format made the experience so much more comfortable and flexible compared to large group tours. We were able to skip the long lines, adjust the pace when needed, and spend more time in the places that truly captured our attention. Ludviq was also incredibly thoughtful, making sure we had time to rest, helping us with photos, and recommending excellent places for local food and coffee. This private tour was not just about sightseeing—it was about experiencing Istanbul through the eyes of someone who loves and understands the city deeply. If you are looking for a professional, insightful, and unforgettable way to explore Istanbul, I cannot recommend this private tour highly enough. It was without question the highlight of our trip.
Operated by Lütfullah Fındıkoğlu by Botanas Travel