Best Of Istanbul 1, 2 or 3 Day Private Guided Tour

Discover Istanbul in a way that truly suits your interests with the Best Of Istanbul Private Guided Tour offered by Unique Ephesus Tours. Whether you choose the 1, 2, or 3-day option, this tour provides a personalized experience of the city’s most famous landmarks, all for just $95 per person. The tour boasts a 5.0 rating from 345 reviews and is recommended by 96% of travelers, making it a trusted choice for visitors eager to explore Istanbul with expert guidance.

This tour is particularly appealing for those who want flexibility—your guide is happy to modify the itinerary to match your personal interests. The private nature of the tour ensures an intimate, tailored experience, with pickup included and options for group discounts. Although the tour price covers guiding services, it does not include museum tickets, meals, or transportation unless you select specific options, so budget accordingly. Travelers who value knowledgeable guides, iconic landmarks, and a customizable schedule find this tour a great fit, especially since the itinerary can be adjusted on the fly.

Key Points

• Flexible tour duration options of 1, 2, or 3 days tailored to your interests
• Private-guided experience ensures personalized attention and customization
• Includes major Istanbul highlights: Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar, Bosphorus cruise
• Excellent reviews with a perfect 5.0 rating from hundreds of participants
• Tour starts at Galataport and ends back at the same meeting point, with pickup offered
• Cost-effective pricing at $95 per person with the ability to book well in advance

Starting the Istanbul Adventure at Galataport

This tour begins at the Galataport Istanbul, located at Klçali Paa, Meclis-i Mebusan Cd. No: 8, in the Beyoğlu district. The meeting point is accessible via public transportation, making it easy to join your personalized journey through Istanbul’s historic and modern neighborhoods. The tour ends back at the same location, providing convenience for guests who want to explore further on their own afterward.

Pickup options are available, and the tour is designed for most travelers, with some notes about site closures—such as the Blue Mosque being closed until 2pm on Fridays, and the Grand Bazaar closed on Sundays. Tour guides are flexible, and last-minute bookings often see flexible start times.

Exploring the Historic Sultanahmet District

The tour prominently features Istanbul’s historic core, Sultanahmet, home to the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Hippodrome. The Blue Mosque, famously called so because of its blue tiles, is a highlight, offering a 45-minute visit free of charge. It’s an impressive structure with six minarets and stunning interior tile work.

Next, the Topkapi Palace unfolds as a 2-hour visit (admission not included). This palace was the residence of Ottoman sultans and served as the administrative hub for centuries. Its architecture and history make it one of the most significant sites in Istanbul, with a vast collection of Ottoman relics and stunning views over the Bosphorus.

The Hippodrome of Constantinople provides a 45-minute stop, showcasing the ancient venue for chariot races and public spectacles. This open-air site epitomizes Istanbul’s Roman and Byzantine past, with notable monuments like the Obelisk of Theodosius.

The Hagia Sophia, a grand architectural marvel, is a key stop, offering a 1-hour visit (tickets not included). Its history as a cathedral, mosque, and now a museum reflects Istanbul’s layered history. Its size, grandeur, and intricate design make it a must-see, even if only from outside on certain days.

A visit to the Grand Bazaar concludes the day, with 2 hours allocated to explore over 4,000 shops across 60 streets. This covered market is a sensory feast of colors, aromas, and traditional crafts, offering opportunities to haggle and find unique souvenirs.

Finally, the Basilica Cistern or Sunken Palace reveals itself as an underground water reservoir dating back to the 6th century, built during Emperor Justinian’s reign. Spanning 9,800 square meters, the cistern is supported by 336 marble columns and offers a cool, atmospheric experience that highlights Byzantium’s engineering skills.

Discovering the Elegant Dolmabahçe Palace and Taksim Square

On the second day, the tour takes you to Dolmabahçe Palace, located along the European shore of the Bosphorus. This 2-hour visit (admission not included) showcases Ottoman royalty’s luxurious residence, with its lavish interiors, ornate chandeliers, and grand gardens. Historically, the area was a bay where the Ottoman fleet anchored, now transformed into a stunning waterfront complex.

The tour then moves to Taksim Square, Istanbul’s modern heart, where the 2-hour visit reveals the bustling atmosphere of this iconic public space. Anchored by the Monument of the Republic, Taksim is a hub for social and political gatherings, with vibrant cafes and shops lining Istiklal Avenue.

A highlight of this day is a Bosphorus cruise, covering 2 hours. The cruise offers panoramic views of Istanbul’s skyline, Ottoman mansions, and bridges connecting Europe and Asia. On the way, you’ll see Kız Kulesi (Maiden’s Tower) on an islet and get a glimpse of Galata Tower, another architectural icon, offering sweeping views of the city.

The Bosphorus Bridge, opened in 1973, is an engineering marvel spanning over 5,000 feet, connecting the two continents. This scenic cruise provides a relaxing way to appreciate Istanbul’s unique position straddling two continents.

The Spice Market (Mısır Çarşısı) wraps up this day, offering a fragrant, colorful experience. The 1-hour visit is filled with piles of spices, teas, dried fruits, and traditional Turkish delights—perfect for sampling and shopping.

Exploring Ottoman and Greek Heritage on Day Three

The third day begins with the Suleymaniye Mosque, a masterpiece designed by architect Mimar Sinan and completed in 1557. This mosque’s large size and elegant domes make it one of the most prominent Ottoman religious structures. The 1-hour visit features intricate tile work and views over the Golden Horn.

Next, the Fener Rum Orthodox Patriarchate offers a glimpse into Istanbul’s Greek Orthodox Christian heritage. The church, dating back to the 4th century, is the spiritual seat of the Eastern Orthodox Church, with architecture reflecting its long history.

Pier Loti Hill provides a 1-hour stop for stunning panoramic views of the Golden Horn. Named after the French author Pierre Loti, the hilltop offers a quaint café where visitors can enjoy Turkish tea while soaking in the vistas. Visitors can reach the top via a cable car ride, adding to the scenic appeal of this stop.

The tour concludes with visits to other notable sites, ensuring a rundown of Istanbul’s Ottoman, Byzantine, and modern landmarks. The private guide adapts the schedule to your pace and interests, making each day tailored to your preferences.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The guide is a key strength of this tour, with reviews praising their knowledge, friendliness, and flexibility. Guides like Kenan and Sedat are mentioned as exceptional, with extensive experience and personal attention. The private nature of the tour means your party moves at your pace, with the ability to modify the itinerary.

The tour includes pickup and ends at the same meeting point, simplifying logistics. However, entrance fees, meals, and transportation are not included unless you select the options, so plan your budget accordingly. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but some stops involve considerable walking—the first day alone can involve over 20,000 steps.

Weather can affect the experience, especially for outdoor sites like Pier Loti Hill or the Bosphorus cruise, but the tour offers full flexibility to reschedule or adjust plans if needed.

Final Thoughts on the Best Of Istanbul Guided Tour

This private, customizable tour presents excellent value, combining major sights with the comfort of expert guidance. The $95 per person price for a multi-day experience is competitive, given the high-quality reviews and flexibility offered.

The key strengths are the knowledgeable guides, personalized itinerary, and coverage of Istanbul’s top attractions from historic mosques and palaces to scenic viewpoints and markets. The day-by-day stops are thoughtfully chosen, ensuring a balance of cultural, historical, and scenic highlights.

While some reviews note the additional costs for tickets and meals, this is common for guided experiences, and the overall value remains high. The cancellation policy, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours before, offers peace of mind for travelers planning ahead.

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors or those with limited time who want a comprehensive, flexible overview of Istanbul with an expert guide. It appeals to travelers who prioritize personalized service, cultural insights, and the chance to see the city’s most iconic landmarks at their own pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the tour?
The price covers professional guiding services for 1, 2, or 3 days and pickup. Entrance fees, meals, and transportation between sites are not included unless specifically selected.

Can the itinerary be customized?
Yes, the guide is happy to alter the itinerary to match your personal interests, making this a highly adaptable experience.

What landmarks are visited on the 1-day tour?
The 1-day option includes the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Hippodrome, Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, and Basilica Cistern.

Is the tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
While most travelers can participate, some sites involve considerable walking, and the reviews mention long steps. It’s recommended to discuss mobility needs with the provider.

How do I book and what is the cancellation policy?
Bookings can be made via the provided platform, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour start.

What are the starting points and ending locations?
The tour begins and ends at Galataport Istanbul, with pickup included.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included but are available at some stops, such as the Spice Market and at recommended restaurants during the tour.

What is the price per person?
The tour is priced at $95.00 per person, making it an accessible option for a multi-day, private guided experience.

How long in advance should I book?
On average, the tour is booked 61 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

Can I join last-minute?
Yes, last-minute bookings are possible, with flexible start times, subject to guide availability.

Is transportation included?
Transportation between sites is not included unless you select specific options; the tour generally involves walking between many stops.

What do reviews say about the guides?
Guides are praised for being knowledgeable, friendly, and flexible, with some reviewers calling their guides the best they’ve experienced.