Discover the soul of Istanbul on a thoughtfully curated walking tour that goes beyond the typical sightseeing experience. As you explore iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapı Palace, our expert guide will bring the city’s rich history to life with captivating stories and cultural insights. Blending well-known sites with hidden gems like Caferağa Medrese and Soğukçeşme Street, this tour offers a perfect balance of depth and discovery—designed for travelers who want to truly connect with the spirit of the city, not just see its surface.
Highlights
2 hours and 30 minutes
Offered in English
Free Cancellation
Mobile Ticket
2 hours and 30 minutes
Offered in English
Free Cancellation
Mobile Ticket
What's Included
Headphone
Guided Tour for the Blue Mosque
Official Guidance Service
Hotel Pick Up
Return Transfer to Hotel
Headscarf (For Ladies)
Meeting Points
Departure
German Fountain
In front of the German Fountain in Sultanahmet Square, our guide will be waiting for you with his blue umbrella with Noreste Tours inscription.
Return
Important Information
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are active mosques; they may be closed to visitors without prior notice in cases such as state protocol.
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No one can skip the line at mosques; however, our guides speed up the process with their daily experience.
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Traffic in Istanbul can be heavy; it is recommended that you leave for the meeting point earlier than planned.
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Tickets are valid for a specific time and expire within 5-10 minutes.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
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Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.
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If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
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This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
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Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
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Discover the soul of Istanbul on a thoughtfully curated walking tour that goes beyond the typical sightseeing experience. As you explore iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapı Palace, our expert guide will bring the city’s rich history to life with captivating stories and cultural insights. Blending well-known sites with hidden gems like Caferağa Medrese and Soğukçeşme Street, this tour offers a perfect balance of depth and discovery—designed for travelers who want to truly connect with the spirit of the city, not just see its surface.
Highlights
2 hours and 30 minutes
Offered in English
Free Cancellation
Mobile Ticket
2 hours and 30 minutes
Offered in English
Free Cancellation
Mobile Ticket
What's Included
Headphone
Guided Tour for the Blue Mosque
Official Guidance Service
Hotel Pick Up
Return Transfer to Hotel
Headscarf (For Ladies)
Meeting Points
Departure
German Fountain
In front of the German Fountain in Sultanahmet Square, our guide will be waiting for you with his blue umbrella with Noreste Tours inscription.
We start our tour by seeing the German Fountain, which is the first stop and meeting point of our tour.
2
Obelisk of Theodosius
Here we learn about the story and details of the obelisk.
10 minutes
3
Serpent Column
Here we learn about the story and details of the Serpent Column.
10 minutes
4
Walled Obelisk
Here we learn about the story and details of the Obelisk of Constantine.
10 minutes
5
Blue Mosque
During our 40-minute tour, we aim to visit a mosque to briefly discuss Islam. If the line at the Blue Mosque is short and manageable, we will go inside for a quick visit. However, since our time is limited, we will not wait in long lines. If the wait is too long, we will visit an alternative mosque nearby to ensure we make the most of our tour.
40 minutes
6
Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan HamamI
Here we will be learning about the Hagia Sophia Hürrem Sultan Bath.
7
Hagia Sophia
We will admire the Hagia Sophia from the outside, as entry requires a fee of 25 Euros per person. Instead of going inside, our local guide will share fascinating insights into its history and cultural importance. With this background, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation of the Hagia Sophia—making any future visit on your own even more meaningful.
20 minutes
8
Basilica Cistern
We will view the Basilica Cistern from the outside, as entry requires a separate ticket. Our guide will explain its fascinating history, architecture, and the legends behind the Medusa heads. With this context, you’ll better appreciate the site if you decide to explore it on your own later.
10 minutes
9
Caferaga Medresesi
We will enter the Caferağa Medrese to explore its peaceful courtyard and beautiful architecture. Our guide will share insights into its history as an Ottoman-era educational center and its present-day role as a hub for traditional arts and crafts. You’ll have a chance to experience its unique atmosphere, and if time allows, browse the artisan workshops or enjoy a short tea break inside.
20 minutes
10
Sogukcesme Sokak
We will stroll through Soğukçeşme Street, a picturesque lane lined with historic Ottoman wooden houses nestled between the Hagia Sophia and Topkapı Palace. Our guide will share stories about its past residents and architectural charm. This peaceful street offers a glimpse into 19th-century Istanbul life and is a perfect spot for photos and quiet appreciation.
11
Topkapi Palace
We will view the Topkapı Palace from the outside and learn about its importance as the primary residence of Ottoman sultans for over 400 years. Our guide will explain the palace’s historical and political significance, as well as its architectural layout. With this background, you’ll have a richer understanding if you choose to visit the museum and courtyards on your own later.
20 minutes
12
Istanbul Archaeological Museum
We will see the Istanbul Archaeology Museum from the outside and learn about its significance as one of the world’s leading museums of ancient civilizations. Our guide will highlight key artifacts housed inside and explain the museum’s role in preserving the region’s rich heritage. This introduction will provide valuable context should you choose to explore the museum further on your own.
