Hagia Sophia, Bosphorus cruise, Blue Mosque, Guided – Small Group

This 7-hour guided tour of Istanbul offers a comprehensive look at the city’s most iconic sights within a small group of up to 15 people. Priced at $60.55 per person, this tour includes guided visits to the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and a scenic Bosphorus cruise, along with visits to the Grand Bazaar, Pierre Loti Hill, and the Eyup Sultan Mosque. The tour is perfect for travelers seeking an organized, informative experience that covers Istanbul’s top attractions without the hassle of planning transportation or navigation.

While the tour offers all-inclusive transport (if selected), it does not include entry tickets for Hagia Sophia, which costs $25 cash on-site. The guided explanations, especially around the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, are praised for their knowledgeability, making it a great option for those interested in history and architecture. However, the long walking segments and traffic congestion are notable considerations, and the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays and religious holidays.

This tour suits first-time visitors wanting a well-organized overview of Istanbul’s major sights in one day. It also works for travelers aiming to combine cultural sites with scenic views, although those with specific expectations for shopping or shorter visits may find some stops less satisfying.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $60.55 and lasts approximately 7 hours.
• Small Group Size: Limited to 15 people for a more personal experience.
• Top Attractions Covered: Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, Bosphorus cruise, Pierre Loti Hill, Eyup Sultan Mosque.
• Transport Included: All-included transportation can be selected for added comfort.
• Highlights: Scenic Bosphorus cruise showing Istanbul’s skyline, panoramic views from Pierre Loti Hill, and insight into historic mosques and landmarks.
• Limitations: Hagia Sophia entry not included, and the tour involves considerable walking and traffic delays.

Visiting the Blue Mosque: An Architectural Marvel

The Blue Mosque is a highlight of this tour, renowned for its 20,000 hand-painted Iznik tiles and six minarets. The guide explains how it was commissioned by Sultan Ahmet I and built during the Classical Ottoman period. With 30 minutes allocated for a guided visit, you get a chance to admire the grandeur and intricate tile work of this iconic mosque, which remains a functioning place of worship.

Visitors should remember that security checks at the Blue Mosque are mandatory and cannot be skipped, and modest dress is required, including long pants and a scarf for covering the head. The visit is a good opportunity to appreciate the mosque’s impressive architecture and historical significance.

Exploring the Hippodrome and Ancient Monuments

The tour includes a 30-minute stop at the Hippodrome, once the heart of Constantinople’s social and sporting life. Here, the German Fountain of Wilhelm II, the Bronze Serpentine Column, the Obelisk of Theodosius, and the Column of Constantine await exploration. These monuments offer a tangible connection to Istanbul’s ancient past and the city’s evolution from Byzantine to Ottoman times.

The guide offers insights about each monument, helping visitors understand their historical context. The location remains free to visit, making it a quick yet meaningful stop.

Inside the Hagia Sophia: A Historic Marvel

The Hagia Sophia stands as an architectural and cultural icon built in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian. Originally constructed as a Greek Orthodox church, it later transitioned into a mosque before becoming a museum. With 45 minutes allocated for a guided visit, this site provides a layered history as the world’s largest church for nearly a thousand years.

Note that the admission fee for Hagia Sophia is not included in the tour price and costs $25 cash on-site. The guide’s commentary helps understand its transformation through centuries and its significance in Istanbul’s skyline.

Shopping and the Grand Bazaar Experience

The Grand Bazaar is an essential stop, where visitors can explore over 4,000 shops spread across 65 streets, offering everything from carpets and jewelry to spices and ceramics. The tour includes a 30-minute walk-through, with an initial stop at a local shop to purchase authentic souvenirs.

The Bazaar is closed on Sundays and religious holidays, so booking on those days means missing this vibrant market. The tour guide provides insights into its history and structure, but shopping time is limited to about 25-30 minutes, which may leave some wishing for more time to explore.

Lunch Break in Sultanahmet District

The tour provides a free 40-minute window for lunch in the Sultanahmet area. Travelers are advised to cover their shoulders and wear long pants when visiting sacred sites earlier in the day. Lunch is not included, so guests can choose from local eateries, though reviews suggest that some meals might feel rushed or average.

Scenic Drive Along the Golden Horn

In the afternoon, the tour features a scenic drive along the Golden Horn, passing by historic churches, mosques, and remnants of the Roman Wall. This drive offers a panoramic view of Istanbul’s diverse architecture and neighborhoods without stops, providing context to the city’s layered history.

The guide narrates as the bus moves along, highlighting notable structures. This segment allows for a photo stop at Pierre Loti Hill, a popular spot named after the French novelist, offering spectacular views of the Golden Horn and the city.

Pierre Loti Hill: A Panoramic Viewpoint

The bus ascends to Pierre Loti Hill via a cable car ticket included in the tour. At this high vantage point, visitors can take photos of Istanbul’s skyline and the Golden Horn. The 40-minute stop gives ample time to enjoy the picturesque scenery and learn about the hill’s history as a literary inspiration.

The hill is named after the French novelist who lived in Istanbul and wrote the novel “Aziyade”. This viewpoint remains a favorite for capturing Istanbul’s beauty from above.

Eyup Sultan Mosque and Tomb: A Sacred Site

The Eyup Sultan Mosque marks a significant religious site, housing the tomb of Abu Ayyub al-Ansari, a companion of Prophet Muhammad. The 30-minute visit provides insight into the mosque’s importance, notably as the location where Ottoman sultans were crowned and girded with the Sword of Osman.

Visitors are encouraged to dress modestly when entering this sacred site. The area offers a peaceful atmosphere and a chance to reflect on Ottoman traditions.

Bosphorus Cruise: Iconic Istanbul from the Water

The highlight of the tour is a 1 hour and 30-minute Bosphorus cruise, providing stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline and landmarks. During the cruise, passengers see sights such as Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahçe Palace, Maidens Tower, Galata Tower, and the Blue Mosque.

The cruise is included in the tour price, giving an authentic perspective of the city’s unique position straddling two continents, Europe and Asia. The guide narrates the historical significance of each sight as the boat glides along the strait, offering unparalleled photo opportunities.

Practicalities and Tour Logistics

The tour departs from Buhara 93 Restaurant in Sultanahmet at 9:00 am. Hotel pickup and drop-off are available if the optional transfer is selected, adding convenience. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, and mobile tickets are provided for easy access.

Visitors should wear modest clothing when entering sacred sites and be prepared for considerable walking, especially during the morning sightseeing parts. The traffic in Istanbul is heavy, which may cause delays, particularly on the drive between sites.

Final Thoughts on the Guided Small Group Tour

This Istanbul tour offers a valuable overview of the city’s major sights with the benefit of experienced guides and organized transportation. The inclusion of the Bosphorus cruise and scenic Pierre Loti Hill are definite highlights, admired for their views and storytelling.

The main limitations include the additional cost for Hagia Sophia’s entrance ($25 cash), the long walking distances, and potential traffic delays. Shoppers should also be aware that the Grand Bazaar might be less impressive if booked on a Sunday or religious holiday.

For those interested in history, architecture, and panoramic views, this tour balances guided insights with free time, making it suitable for first-time visitors or those seeking a well-rounded day in Istanbul. Be prepared for a full, busy schedule, but expect a memorable experience with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural exposure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation is included if the optional all-inclusive package is selected, covering pick-up and drop-off.

How long does the Bosphorus cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, offering views of Istanbul’s skyline and bridges.

Are entry tickets for Hagia Sophia included?
No, the $25 entrance fee for Hagia Sophia is paid cash on site and is not included in the tour price.

Do I need to bring my own lunch?
Yes, lunch is not included, and there is a 40-minute free time for a meal in Sultanahmet.

What should I wear when visiting sacred sites?
Visitors should wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts, and women should bring a scarf to cover their head.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Due to the considerable walking involved, it may not be ideal for those with mobility challenges.

How many people are in the tour group?
The group is limited to a maximum of 15 people for a more intimate experience.

Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
The itinerary is fixed, but the tour guide provides insights during each stop, and the timing can vary due to traffic and crowds.

What is the best time to book this tour?
Most bookings are made about 3 weeks in advance; early booking helps secure availability.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Key highlights include the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Bosphorus cruise, Grand Bazaar, Pierre Loti Hill, and the Eyup Sultan Mosque.