Full Day Istanbul Old City & Asian Side Tour incl Lunch & Tickets

Explore Istanbul’s Unique European and Asian Sides in One Day

This full-day Istanbul tour offers an efficient way to see the city’s most famous sites across both continents. Priced at $112.75 per person, it lasts approximately 7 hours and includes lunch and museum tickets. Starting from the European side, the tour takes you through iconic landmarks such as Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, then crosses the Bosphorus to explore the Asian side, where panoramic views and grand mosques await.

The tour is guided by a professional licensed guide and features air-conditioned transportation, making the long day comfortable and informative. It’s especially suited for those with limited time but eager to get a rundown of Istanbul’s highlights. Note that the tour involves significant walking, which might be challenging for some guests, and mosque dress codes are strictly observed.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: $112.75 per person, around 7 hours total
• Includes: Lunch, museum tickets, hotel pickup, air-conditioned vehicle
• Highlights: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Beylerbeyi Palace, Camlica Hill, CamlIca Mosque
• Stops on both continents: Explore Old Town and Asian Side
• Guide: Experienced, licensed guide providing insightful commentary
• Crowd and pace: Well-paced, but involves significant walking and crowd navigation
• Best for: Visitors short on time who want a structured overview of Istanbul

Starting the Day at Istanbul’s Historic Heart: Hagia Sophia

The tour begins with pick-up from your hotel, followed by a visit to Hagia Sophia, one of the world’s most extraordinary architectural masterpieces. Recognized as an Eight Wonder of the World, this monument has survived centuries and showcases a blend of Byzantine and Ottoman influences. Guests receive an admission ticket included in the price, allowing for a thorough exploration of its stunning interior.

The guide highlights the significance of Hagia Sophia in both religious and architectural history, emphasizing its size and age. Visitors have 45 minutes here to admire the vast domes, intricate mosaics, and historical artifacts.

Visiting the Blue Mosque: Icon of Istanbul’s Skyline

Next, the tour stops at the Blue Mosque, famous for the exquisite blue Iznik tiles that decorate its interior. Built as an imperial mosque, it uniquely features six minarets, making it instantly recognizable. On Fridays, when the mosque is reserved for prayer, the visit is limited to the exterior, but on other days, entry is free with an admission ticket included.

Guests are advised to respect the dress code, covering shoulders and knees, or they can buy a single-use dress available at the site. The Blue Mosque visit lasts about 30 minutes and is a must-see for its stunning architecture and spiritual atmosphere.

The Hippodrome Square and Its Historic Significance

Following the mosques, the group walks to the Hippodrome Square, once the sporting and social hub of Byzantium. The site holds famous monuments like the Egyptian Obelisk and the Serpent Column. This stop lasts about 15 minutes, offering a quick but impactful glimpse into Istanbul’s ancient Roman and Byzantine past amid bustling city life.

Exploring the Grand Bazaar and Craftsmanship

After the Hippodrome, the tour guides you to a brief handicrafts presentation near the Grand Bazaar. Guests have the option to skip this and explore the bazaar independently. The Grand Bazaar is renowned for its vibrant shops, jewelry, textiles, and souvenirs, but it is closed on Sundays. The group spends about one hour here, giving ample time to browse or shop.

Savoring a Traditional Turkish Lunch

Midday, the tour moves to a local restaurant for a 3-course lunch, which includes vegetarian options and beverages at your own expense. The lunch lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, providing a well-earned break after a busy morning of sightseeing. Guests appreciate the opportunity to enjoy authentic Turkish cuisine amidst a comfortable setting.

Crossing the Bosphorus to the Asian Side

Post-lunch, the group drives over the Bosporus Bridge, which famously links the European and Asian parts of Istanbul. The highlight here is Camlica Hill, the highest point in the city, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Bosphorus, Prince Islands, and Istanbul’s skyline.

This stop lasts about 30 minutes and is ideal for photos and soaking in the city’s unique geographic beauty. The guide explains the significance of Camlica Hill as a vantage point for Istanbul’s sprawling cityscape.

Visiting the Grand Camlica Mosque

Next, guests visit the Grand Camlica Mosque, opened in 2019 and known as Turkey’s largest mosque. The architectural grandeur and expansive prayer halls showcase modern Ottoman revival styles. The 30-minute visit allows guests to admire its impressive design and serenity.

Beylerbeyi Palace: Ottoman Summer Retreat

The last stop is Beylerbeyi Palace, the summer residence of Ottoman Sultans. This palace reflects a blend of Eastern, Turkish, and Western motifs, with well-preserved furniture and décor. The tour spends about 1 hour and 15 minutes here, giving a chance to appreciate the historical architecture and the exquisite craftsmanship of the interior.

Comfortable Transportation and Guided Experience

Throughout the day, the air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort, and a professional licensed guide offers engaging commentary on each site. The tour accommodates up to 18 travelers, creating an intimate group size that facilitates easy movement and personalized attention. The pick-up and drop-off are provided from centrally located hotels on the European side, streamlining logistics.

Practical Considerations and Accessibility

Guests should be prepared for significant walking, especially at outdoor sites like Hippodrome and Camlica Hill. The tour is not recommended for individuals with walking difficulties. Plus, visitors must adhere to the dress code at mosques, covering shoulders and knees; dress codes are strictly enforced, but single-use coverings are available for purchase.

The tour includes disinfected vehicles for safety, and most travelers can participate comfortably. It is advisable to book at least 27 days in advance to secure a spot, as this tour is popular.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What sets this tour apart is its seamless combination of historical sites, panoramic views, and cultural landmarks across both continents in just one day. The inclusion of lunch and tickets makes it convenient, and the professional guidance enhances understanding of Istanbul’s complex history and architecture.

While the tour offers an efficient overview, it does involve lots of walking, which might be tiring for some guests. It’s best suited for active travelers who enjoy guided excursions with a structured schedule. The high ratings (5.0/5 from 14 reviews) confirm its popularity and overall satisfaction.

Final Thoughts: An Action-Packed Day in Istanbul

This full-day tour provides a compact yet comprehensive experience of Istanbul’s most iconic sights. It balances cultural exploration with scenic views, making it ideal for visitors who want to maximize their time. The well-organized itinerary and expert guidance ensure you get the most out of your visit.

Guests looking for a balanced mix of history, culture, and breathtaking vistas find this tour rewarding, especially given its affordable price and inclusions. However, those with limited mobility should consider the walking involved. This tour offers a practical, engaging, and memorable way to explore Istanbul’s rich tapestry of sights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes professional guiding, air-conditioned transportation, museum tickets, and lunch. Beverages are not included.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are offered from centrally located hotels on the European Side.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 8:30 am.

Are all sites accessible for people with walking difficulties?
The tour involves significant walking and may not be suitable for guests with walking challenges.

What should I wear to visit the mosques?
Visitors must cover shoulders and knees. Single-use coverings are available for purchase if needed.

Can I skip the Grand Bazaar if I prefer?
Yes, guests can choose to skip the handicrafts presentation and explore the bazaar independently.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, vegetarian options are available for the lunch.

What are the main highlights of the Asian side?
The tour visits Camlica Hill, CamlIca Mosque, and Beylerbeyi Palace for views, architecture, and history.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 18 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.

Is this tour available year-round?
Yes, the tour is offered regularly, but it’s best to book in advance, especially during peak seasons.