Istanbul: Full-Day Imperial & Asia Small Group Tour

Explore Istanbul’s Top Sights in One Day with a Small Group Tour

The Istanbul: Full-Day Imperial & Asia Small Group Tour offers a well-rounded experience of Turkey’s bustling city, all within 8 hours at $135 per person. This tour is perfect for those eager to see iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, as well as exploring the vibrant Grand Bazaar and the scenic Asian side of the city. With small groups of 20 to 25 people and guided explanations, it delivers a more intimate and informative experience than larger tours.

The tour includes entrance fees, hotel pickup and drop-off (on the European side), and a 4-course lunch with vegetarian options. One of the tour’s strengths is its coverage of both the historic European core and the scenic Asian districts, passing over the Bosphorus Bridge. A notable limitation is that not all stops are guaranteed every day, and walking difficulty might impact some travelers, particularly at sites like the Hippodrome or Beylerbeyi Palace.

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Key Points

• Includes guided visits to Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar
• Passes over the Bosphorus Bridge to explore the Asian side, including Çamlca Hill and Beylerbeyi Palace
• All entrance fees are covered, simplifying planning
• Small group size enhances personal attention and better interaction
• Lunch is included, with vegetarian options available
• Tour runs every day except Mondays, with some stops potentially replaced or canceled on certain days

Starting Point and Group Size for a Personalized Experience

This tour departs from 13 pickup locations across Istanbul’s European side, including Sultanahmet, Taksim Square, and Eminönü. The city center hotels provide a convenient pickup, setting the stage for a seamless start. The small group size of 20-25 participants means more space to move around and opportunities for personalized attention from the guide, which many find enhances the overall quality of the experience.

The tour begins early, with availability depending on the day, and includes hotel pickup and drop-off in air-conditioned vehicles. This logistics arrangement makes it easier to focus on sightseeing without worrying about transport.

Discovering the Historic Heart of Istanbul: Sultanahmet District

The tour kicks off in the Sultanahmet district, the historic core of Istanbul. This area holds Hagia Sophia, a Roman-built structure from the 6th century, renowned for its massive dome and glittering mosaics of emperors and virgins. The Blue Mosque, built in the early 17th century, features exquisite interior tiles and six minarets, with a grand courtyard perfect for photos.

The Hippodrome, once a stadium seating 100,000 spectators, still hosts remnants like the Egyptian obelisk and the bronze Delphi serpent sculptures. Guides provide explanations of the historical significance of these monuments, making this part of the tour both educational and visually impressive.

Exploring Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar and Local Crafts

A major highlight is the Grand Bazaar, home to 4,000 shops filled with carpets, kilims, silks, jewelry, ceramics, and leather goods. Visitors get free time to browse and shop, with the option to indulge in ottoman-style purchases. The optional handicrafts presentation and lecture nearby enrich the experience by offering insights into Turkish craftsmanship.

Note that the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays, so on that day, the tour visits Nuruosmaniye Street instead. The bazaar’s lively atmosphere and wide variety of treasures make it a favorite stop, despite the potential for crowds, especially on busy days.

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Enjoying Traditional Turkish Lunch Midday

After a morning of sightseeing, the tour provides a delicious 4-course lunch. The menu typically includes soup, seasonal appetizers, and a main course like meatballs or chicken, with dessert to finish. Vegetarian options are available upon request, ensuring dietary needs are considered.

Lunch is a chance to relax and discuss the morning’s discoveries before shifting gears toward the Asian side of Istanbul. The leisurely meal adds value by combining sightseeing with culinary enjoyment.

Crossing the Bosphorus to the Asian Side

Post-lunch, the group drives over the Bosphorus Bridge, once the world’s longest suspension bridge, to reach the Asian side. The guide offers commentary along the way and helps travelers appreciate the city’s two-sided charm. This crossing is a highlight, providing stunning views of the sea, Princes Islands, and the sprawling cityscape.

On the Asian side, travelers visit Çamlca Hill, known for its panoramic views of Istanbul and the Sea of Marmara. The Grand Çamlca Mosque, opened in 2019, was designed by two female architects, and stands as the largest mosque in Turkey. The site is perfect for photos and taking in the city’s expansive scenery.

Visiting the Elegant Beylerbeyi Palace

The tour then continues to Beylerbeyi Palace, a prime example of late Ottoman architecture. This shoreline palace features six richly furnished reception halls, adorned with Bohemian crystal chandeliers and Sèvres and Chinese vases. The palace’s main salon boasts an indoor fountain and has hosted figures such as Empress Eugénie of France and Shah Nasruddin of Persia.

Beylerbeyi Palace is open daily except Mondays, making it a key attraction for the tour. The guided visit provides insights into the Ottoman imperial lifestyle and the palace’s historical significance.

Optional Stops and Tour Variations

Certain stops, like Çamlca Hill and Beylerbeyi Palace, may be canceled or replaced by alternative activities such as a Bosphorus cruise — especially if the group size or scheduling constraints arise. Some reviews mention that not all sites are visited on every day, which is important for planning.

Plus, on Fridays, the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are only visible from the outside due to Friday prayers. The tour accommodates these religious considerations, and cover-ups and scarves are provided at the Blue Mosque, with ladies advised to bring their own or purchase one.

Practical Details and Additional Costs

The tour includes all entrance fees, guide services, and hotel pickup and drop-off in European side hotels. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during transfers. Drinks are not included in the lunch or in the tour price, so travelers should plan accordingly.

The activity is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with walking difficulties, as some sites involve uneven terrain or standing for periods. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility.

Final Thoughts on the Imperial & Asian Side Istanbul Tour

This full-day tour balances the must-see landmarks of European Istanbul with a meaningful visit to the Asian side, guided by knowledgeable professionals. The small group size enhances interaction, and the combination of historic sites, scenic views, and shopping opportunities provides a rundown.

While some stops may be canceled or replaced depending on the day, the inclusion of Bosphorus crossing, Beylerbeyi Palace, and a multi-course lunch make this a strong value. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy guided tours, want to maximize sightseeing in a single day, and are comfortable with moderate walking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for city center hotels on the European side.

Are entrance fees covered?
All entrance fees as per the itinerary are included, making it easier to plan and budget.

Can I visit the Grand Bazaar on Sundays?
No, the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays. On that day, the tour visits Nuruosmaniye Street instead.

Is the tour suitable for people with walking difficulties?
The tour not recommended for participants with walking difficulties due to site terrain and walking involved.

What is the lunch like?
The lunch is a 4-course meal, with vegetarian options available, including soup, appetizers, main course, and dessert.

This Istanbul: Full-Day Imperial & Asia Small Group Tour offers a well-organized way to see the city’s highlights, combining history, culture, and scenic views into one memorable day.

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