Istanbul: Guided Old City Tour, Bosphorus Cruise, and Lunch

Explore Istanbul’s Old City with a Knowledgeable Guide

This 6-hour guided tour in Istanbul offers an engaging way to experience the city’s historic heart. Priced at $153 per person, it combines cultural visits, scenic views, and local flavors. The tour departs from the True Blue Tour’s office in the Old City, making it easily accessible for travelers staying nearby.

You’ll explore iconic landmarks like Hippodrome Square, Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia (from outside), with the chance to descend into the atmospheric Basilica Cistern. The guided walks are led by a professional licensed guide, available in English, Japanese, or Russian, adding expert insights to each stop.

A key highlight is the Bosphorus cruise, which lasts two hours and offers stunning panoramas of Istanbul from the water. After sightseeing, the tour includes a traditional Turkish lunch at a local restaurant, giving a taste of regional cuisine. The experience concludes at the Spice Market, a vibrant spot filled with aromas and colorful goods.

While the tour provides a rundown of the Old City and waterfront views, note that entrance fees for Hagia Sophia are not included and cost 30 cash. Also, no pick-up or drop-off service is provided, so participants should plan their arrival accordingly.

This tour suits visitors who want a structured, all-in-one day in Istanbul with emphasis on history, architecture, and scenic water views. It’s perfect for first-time visitors eager to see major sights with expert guidance and enjoy a local meal.

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Key Points

• 6-hour guided experience focusing on Istanbul’s historic Old City and Bosphorus views
• Includes visits to Hippodrome Square, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, and exterior of Hagia Sophia
• A 2-hour Bosphorus cruise provides unique water-level perspectives of the city
• Traditional Turkish lunch at a local restaurant is part of the experience
• Visit the Spice Market to experience the lively, sensory-filled market atmosphere
• Cost is $153 per person, with optional Hagia Sophia entrance fee of 30 cash (not included)

Discovering the Heart of Istanbul: Hippodrome Square

The tour begins at Hippodrome Square, historically the hub of social and political life in Constantinople. Here, the guide leads you through the site of ancient chariot races, pointing out key monuments like the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column, and the German Fountain. These landmarks showcase Istanbul’s layered history and blend of cultures.

This spot offers a lively introduction to the city’s past, setting the tone for the day. The guides are skilled at sharing stories behind each monument, making the history accessible and engaging. The walking pace allows ample time for photos and questions, making it a comfortable start for most visitors.

Blue Mosque Interior and Exterior: Ottoman Architectural Marvel

Next, the tour moves to the Blue Mosque, renowned for its stunning Iznik tiles and grand Ottoman architecture. The guide takes you inside, where you can appreciate the spacious prayer hall, the intricate tile work, and the impressive domes.

Please note that entry is not included in the ticket price, but the guide leads you through the exterior and explains the mosque’s significance. To enter the Blue Mosque, a dress code applies: women need to cover their knees, shoulders, and chest, with scarves available at the entrance if needed.

The Blue Mosque remains a working place of worship, so visitors should be respectful of ongoing prayers. The guided explanation helps you understand its religious and historical importance, enriching the visit.

Hagia Sophia from Outside: A Symbol of Heritage

While the interior of Hagia Sophia is not part of this tour, the exterior view allows you to admire its breathtaking Byzantine and Ottoman architecture. The guide highlights its history as a cathedral, mosque, and museum, emphasizing its role as a symbol of Istanbul.

Travelers have the flexibility to decide whether to pay the entrance fee of 30 cash for inside access or continue to enjoy the external view and stories provided by the guide. The external visit offers plenty of photo opportunities and insight into the building’s impressive scale.

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Descending into the Basilica Cistern

One of the tour’s highlights is the visit to the Basilica Cistern, an underground reservoir built during Byzantine times. Visitors walk through a forest of columns, with atmospheric lighting creating a mysterious ambiance. The guide explains the cistern’s purpose and shares stories about its construction and history.

Descending into the cistern takes just a few minutes, but it leaves a lasting impression. The cool, damp environment contrasts with the bustling city above and offers a glimpse into Istanbul’s ancient water systems. The guide’s commentary makes the underground site accessible and interesting.

Tasting Local Flavors at a Traditional Turkish Restaurant

After sightseeing, the tour includes a lunch at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy authentic Turkish dishes. While specific menu items are not listed, the meal offers a chance to sample regional specialties in a relaxed setting, adding a culinary dimension to the day.

The meal’s value is enhanced by the opportunity to relax and discuss the morning’s sights. Drinks are not included in the lunch, so travelers should bring cash if they wish to purchase beverages.

Scenic Bosphorus Cruise: Water Views of Istanbul

In the afternoon, the tour takes a 2-hour cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, one of the most scenic parts of Istanbul. From the water, you’ll see Ottoman palaces, wooden mansions, fortresses, and modern landmarks, illustrating the city’s diverse architectural styles.

The cruise offers incredible panoramas from the water, where land and sea blend in views of both Europe and Asia. The guide provides commentary on notable sights along the route, enriching the experience.

This boat ride stands out as a peaceful yet impressive way to see Istanbul from a different perspective, taking in the city’s skyline and waterfront life.

Exploring the Vibrant Spice Market

The tour concludes with a visit to the Spice Market, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar. This vibrant marketplace is filled with the scents of spices, dried fruits, Turkish delights, and souvenirs. Walking through the stalls provides a sensory experience that contrasts with the earlier historical sites.

The guide helps you navigate the market, pointing out local products and specialties. It’s a lively area perfect for browsing or picking up small souvenirs before the tour ends.

Practicalities: Meeting Point, Accessibility, and Tips

The tour begins at the True Blue Tour’s office in the Old City, making it convenient for travelers staying nearby. The tour is designed for those prepared for walking and standing, but it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes, bring a camera, cash for optional entrance fees and souvenirs, and a scarf for visiting mosques. The dress code requires covering shoulders and knees for women and shoulders for men; scarves and covers are available at the entrance if needed.

The tour offers skip-the-line access through a separate entrance at some sites, saving time during busy periods. It’s advisable to check availability and start times, as they vary.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is ideal for visitors seeking a rundown of Istanbul’s major sights within a manageable 6-hour window. It’s especially suited for those interested in history, architecture, and scenic water views.

Travelers who want to combine sightseeing with authentic local cuisine and enjoy a relaxing cruise will find this tour well-balanced. Since entrance fees are not included for Hagia Sophia, it’s flexible for guests who prefer to see the exterior or pay separately.

Final Thoughts on This Guided Old City and Bosphorus Experience

This tour from True Blue Tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Istanbul, combining iconic landmarks, scenic views, and local flavors. The professional guide ensures insightful commentary throughout, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

The Bosphorus cruise is especially memorable, providing stunning vistas of the cityscape from the water. The lunch adds a genuine taste of Turkish cuisine, rounding out the day. The visit to the Spice Market at the end provides a lively conclusion with opportunities for souvenirs.

While the tour’s pacing is generally smooth, the lack of included entrance fees for Hagia Sophia might be a consideration. The limited accessibility makes it less suitable for guests with mobility challenges. This tour delivers good value for those interested in a structured, scenic exploration of Istanbul’s highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the entrance fee for Hagia Sophia included?
No, the entrance fee of 30 cash is not included, but it can be paid directly to the guide if you choose to explore inside.

What should I wear for the mosque visits?
Women are asked to cover shoulders, knees, and chest, with scarves available for free at the entrance if needed. Men should also ensure shoulders and knees are covered.

Is transportation provided between stops?
No, the tour involves walking between sites, starting from the True Blue Tour’s office. No pick-up or drop-off service is included.

Can the tour be customized for accessibility needs?
No, the tour is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the walking involved.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides speak English, Japanese, and Russian to accommodate diverse groups.

How long is the Bosphorus cruise?
The cruise lasts two hours, offering picturesque views of Istanbul’s waterways and landmarks.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby