
Best of Istanbul Private Day Tour with Licensed Guide
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 57 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Best of Istanbul Private Day Tour with Licensed Guide worth booking?
Best of Istanbul Private Day Tour with Licensed Guide is a 5-hour experience in Istanbul, Turkey, from €163 per person. It scores 74 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 5/5 rating across 57 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 74 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (57)
- Duration
- 5 hours
- From
- €163 per person
Experience the best of Istanbul on a private tour that takes you to the city's most iconic landmarks. Your tour will start with a pre-arranged location (Hagia Sophia). Throughout the tour, you'll benefit from the expertise of your private guide, who will share insights into the history, culture, and architecture of Istanbul. At the end of the tour, you'll be dropped off at pre-arranged location (Hagia Sophia). Traditional Shopping Experience: Visit authentic Turkish workshops showcasing handwoven carpets, fine leather goods, ceramics, jewelry, and local handicrafts. Learn about traditional craftsmanship while enjoying a relaxed, no-pressure cultural shopping experience.
What you get
About this experience
Experience the best of Istanbul on a private tour that takes you to the city's most iconic landmarks. Your tour will start with a pre-arranged location (Hagia Sophia). Throughout the tour, you'll benefit from the expertise of your private guide, who will share insights into the history, culture, and architecture of Istanbul. At the end of the tour, you'll be dropped off at pre-arranged location (Hagia Sophia). Traditional Shopping Experience: Visit authentic Turkish workshops showcasing handwoven carpets, fine leather goods, ceramics, jewelry, and local handicrafts. Learn about traditional craftsmanship while enjoying a relaxed, no-pressure cultural shopping experience.
What's included
Included
- Meet at Hagia Sophia
- Professional licensed English-speaking guide
Not included
- Gratuities for guide (optional)
- Personal expenses
- Meal & Beverages
- Entrance Ticket of Topkapi Palace
- Entrance Ticket of Hagia Sophia
What you'll see and do
Hippodrome
First visit is Hippodrome. It was the center of sport activities of Constantinople. Famous with 4 monuments, The German Fountain of Wilhelm II, Egyptian Obelisk, Serpentine Column, Column of Constantine.
30 minutes here
Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
You'll also visit the Hagia Sophia, a stunning architectural masterpiece that has served as a church, mosque, and museum over the centuries.
90 minutes here · Admission not included
Blue Mosque
Next, you'll head to the Blue Mosque, an impressive mosque named for its blue tiles and distinctive architecture. Your guide will provide insights into the mosque's history and significance as a religious site.
60 minutes here
TopkapI Palace
Furthermore, Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans and one of Istanbul's most popular attractions. You'll also visit the Hagia Sophia, a stunning architectural masterpiece that has served as a church, mosque, and museum over the centuries.
90 minutes here · Admission not included
Grand Bazaar
Afterward, you'll explore the Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, with over 4,000 shops selling everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and souvenirs. Finally, you'll visit the Hippodrome, a former chariot racing arena that now serves as a public square.
60 minutes here
Feshane Rugs
Visit a traditional carpet weaving village to discover the art of handmade Turkish carpets, watch local artisans at work, and learn about centuries-old weaving techniques and natural dyes.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Istanbul
You will meet with the guide at Hagia Sophia.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
You will meet with the guide at Hagia Sophia.
Options you can book
Private tour with van
Duration: 6 hours Brand New-Mercedes: Mercedes Vito (6 seats) or Mercedes Sprinter (14 seats)
Private Tour -Meeting Point
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 14 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Turkey Tours Company
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Topkapi Palace Entrance Fee is 2750 TRY. You can pay to guide for SKIP-THE-LINE tickets.
- The pick-up service available only from centrally located hotels on foot. Otherwise, you will meet with the guide in front of Hagia Sophia.
- Hagia Sophia Entrance Fee is 25 €. You can pay to guide for SKIP-THE-LINE tickets.
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 57 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
10 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
8 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Organization
3 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Small groups
3 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Traveler reviews
57 verified traveler reviews for Best of Istanbul Private Day Tour with Licensed Guide. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Wonderful day meandering Istanbul
The trip started with clear communication from the tour guide, Mert the evening before including the picture of where he will meet me off the ship. It was supposed to be for a small group, but I ended up as the only person for the tour. Mert was very friendly and informative throughout the day. I even stopped to buy a small bag of grilled chestnut from a street vendor. Needless to say, I had a fantastic experience.
Response from the operator: Thank you for sharing your experience with us. We're happy to hear you enjoyed your time with us. Your feedback keeps us motivated to continually improve our service to you. We look forward to serving you again in the future. Kind regards, TURKEY TOURS COMPANY
via Tripadvisor
An excellent quick tour of Istanbul with Kadir Can!
I only had a brief window in Istanbul and needed a guide who could help me make the most of my time. Kadir Can met that need and more. I had expected to walk to a meeting point but Kadir picked me up at my hotel himself. Kadir not only gave me historical notes on the sites we visited but also gave me insight into the culture surrounding the area. Kadir graciously took me to a location that was on my wish list but not on the published agenda. He also took me to a couple of spots that are not on the list of top destinations but that gave me a more nuanced feel for the local culture. I had thought of making my own way but am very glad that I found Kadir to guide me!
Response from the operator: Thank you for sharing your experience with us. We're happy to hear you enjoyed your time with us. Your feedback keeps us motivated to continually improve our service to you. We look forward to serving you again in the future. Kind regards, TURKEY TOURS COMPANY
via Tripadvisor
Private Istanbul Tour from Cruise Port with Kids
Our Private Tour of Istanbul from cruise port with kids was great! Our guide Mert was very informative and a great host for the city of Istanbul! I would highly recommend for any cruise passengers and those with children as well.
Response from the operator: Thank you for sharing your experience with us. We're happy to hear you enjoyed your time with us. Your feedback keeps us motivated to continually improve our service to you. We look forward to serving you again in the future. Kind regards, TURKEY TOURS COMPANY
via Tripadvisor
Istanbul in 3 days with the best guide John
We had three really action packed days in Istanbul. Kadir Can Agir (aka) John was our guide. We are so blessed to have had him for the 3 days. He was so informative, knowledgeable and had a great sense of humor. We went to all the touristy places but having a guide is the best thing as he gives you the history around everything. We are currently in Kusadasi and the off to Antalya, the Cappadocia. Watch the space for the next reviews.
Response from the operator: Thank you for sharing your experience with us. We're happy to hear you enjoyed your time with us. Your feedback keeps us motivated to continually improve our service to you. We look forward to serving you again in the future. Kind regards, TURKEY TOURS COMPANY
via Tripadvisor
Highly recommend!
We booked IstanbulTourMatt months ago and he called the evening before our tour to rudely cancel our group of 10. This company responded immediately, the guide Aisha reached out to us shortly after and we were quickly reassured we would have a wonderful experience. Aisha arrived on time in a beautiful car to collect us all, and impressed us with her professionalism, knowledge of the city, warmth and flexibility. It was especially helpful having access to the skip the lines which meant we weren’t standing in the hot sun queuing. Highly recommend Aisha and this company reliable, professional service.
Response from the operator: Thank you for sharing your experience with us. We're happy to hear you enjoyed your time with us. Your feedback keeps us motivated to continually improve our service to you. We look forward to serving you again in the future. Kind regards, TURKEY TOURS COMPANY
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- €163 to €495
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 20
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Who runs this experience
Operated by Turkey Tours Company, who run 37 experiences we rank across 6 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 57.2.
See everything Turkey Tours Company runsWhy this scores 74
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Best of Istanbul Private Day Tour with Licensed Guide: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Istanbul.
How much does Best of Istanbul Private Day Tour with Licensed Guide cost?
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Prices start at €163 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Istanbul usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Best of Istanbul Private Day Tour with Licensed Guide take?
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Plan for about 5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Istanbul is not rushed.
Is Best of Istanbul Private Day Tour with Licensed Guide worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 74 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 57 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Istanbul, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Best of Istanbul Private Day Tour with Licensed Guide?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Best of Istanbul Private Day Tour with Licensed Guide suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Best of Istanbul Private Day Tour with Licensed Guide?
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Around 20 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Istanbul can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Istanbul and add a light layer if any part of the 5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Best of Istanbul Private Day Tour with Licensed Guide start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Istanbul within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Istanbul?
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On Outty we rank every Istanbul experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Princes Islands Blue Journey from Old City Istanbul, Famous Istanbul Pub Crawl #1 Nightlife Experience, Best of Istanbul 1, 2 or 3-Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Istanbul?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Istanbul?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Best of Istanbul Private Day Tour with Licensed Guide?
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Included: Meet at Hagia Sophia; and Professional licensed English-speaking guide. Not included: Gratuities for guide (optional); Personal expenses; Meal & Beverages; and Entrance Ticket of Topkapi Palace. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Best of Istanbul Private Day Tour with Licensed Guide?
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You will meet with the guide at Hagia Sophia. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Best of Istanbul Private Day Tour with Licensed Guide offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Best of Istanbul Private Day Tour with Licensed Guide?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Best of Istanbul Private Day Tour with Licensed Guide wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Best of Istanbul Private Day Tour with Licensed Guide if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Istanbul. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Best of Istanbul Private Day Tour with Licensed Guide?
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Across 57 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, organization. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
What booking options are available for Best of Istanbul Private Day Tour with Licensed Guide?
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There are 2 options to choose from, including Private tour with van, Private Tour -Meeting Point. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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