
Guided Hagia Sofia, Blue mosque, Basilica Cistern- Grand Bazaar
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 207 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Guided Hagia Sofia, Blue mosque, Basilica Cistern- Grand Bazaar worth booking?
Guided Hagia Sofia, Blue mosque, Basilica Cistern- Grand Bazaar is a 3-hour experience in Istanbul, Turkey, from $57 per person. It scores 84 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 207 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 84 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (207)
- Duration
- 3 hours
- From
- $57 per person
Skip the long lines to get inside the Hagia Sofia and Basilica Cistern. Att! Tickets provided but are extra to be paid to the guide while on tour. Please check the exclusions for the ticket prices. Tick most of the top sites of old Istanbul off your travel bucket list with our specialized small group tour. It is a fully-guided tour inside Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya), Basilica Cistern, Blue Mosque, Roman Hippodrome and Grand bazar. ( on Sundays Grand bazaar is closed it will be substituted with Spice bazaar). Along the way stop to hear the stories of the Roman Hippodrome (including Egyptian Obelisk, and Serpent Column German Fountain ), Million stone,
What you get
About this experience
Skip the long lines to get inside the Hagia Sofia and Basilica Cistern. Att! Tickets provided but are extra to be paid to the guide while on tour. Please check the exclusions for the ticket prices. Tick most of the top sites of old Istanbul off your travel bucket list with our specialized small group tour. It is a fully-guided tour inside Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya), Basilica Cistern, Blue Mosque, Roman Hippodrome and Grand bazar. ( on Sundays Grand bazaar is closed it will be substituted with Spice bazaar). Along the way stop to hear the stories of the Roman Hippodrome (including Egyptian Obelisk, and Serpent Column German Fountain ), Million stone,
What's included
Included
- Profesional licensed English speaking guide
- Tea and coffee
- Guiding inside the sites
Not included
- Tickets will be provided in advance and there won't be time wasting in ticket lines
- Lunch. Your guide will suggest you some local restaurants at the end of the tour for lunch.
- Hotel pick up ( optional ). Please contact us if you need a pick up. +905342005565
What you'll see and do
Blue Mosque
This is a 17 century active mosque and the most visited one in Turkey. Original name is Sultanahmet mosque. Blue is the name give because of the blue tiles used inside. * it was closed due to renovation for last 6 years but it is open now since April 21st.
30 minutes here
Hippodrome
This is the base of the Roman hippodrome which was built in 4 century AD for chariot races. The monuments survived to present are Egyptian obelisk ( 1500 BC ) Serpent column ( 5th century BC ) , Constantine column ( 10 century AD).
30 minutes here
Basilica Cistern
This is a water reservoir which looks like an underground palace. Basilica Cistern one of the most impressive example of Roman architecture. Don't miss to walk to the end to see the gigantic Medusa heads turned upside down.
30 minutes here · Admission not included
Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
We visit this 6 century AD world heritage from inside. It is a unique building embrace two religion ( Islam and Christianity ) inside. You will see an unusual architecture, mosaics, chirography art, and your guide will give you information about its 1500 history, architecture and religion symbols.
45 minutes here · Admission not included
Corlulu Ali Pasa Medresesi
We will have a tea/coffee break at this local cafe where the locals get socialize with tea and coffee drinking and smoking shisha/hookah. This was a former religious school until 1930s. Drinks are included to the tour price.
30 minutes here · Admission included
Grand Bazaar
We will visit the Grand bazaar from inside where your guide will give you some tips on shopping. Tour will end nearby where you can come back for shopping. Please note that, Grand bazaar is closed on Sundays so it will be substituted with Spice bazaar. Additionally, both bazaars are closed on religious festivals twice a year and in those days it will be substituted with Arasta bazaar.
20 minutes here
Vezirhan Handmade Carpets & Klims
This a great way to see and learn how the handmade Turkish carpets are made. It is a shop suited in a 500 years old Caravanserai ( ancient hotel ). What makes this place different than others is that they are not pushy on selling, trustworthy on the carpets quality and shipping for those who buy. This is an optional activity at the end of the tour so only those who are interested will join.
30 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Istanbul
Travel to the Sultanahmet Tram Station. From the tram station walk down the hill on the right side of the road toward to the little mosque Firuz ağa . Take the first right onto the Hippodrome ( square ). You will see the green domed fountain in front of you.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
On Sunday, Grand bazaar is closed to the tour will end at the Spice Bazaar.
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 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- My Local Guide lstanbul
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Kids age 6 + will be charged as adults
- Kids 5 and lower years old free of charge and need have their ID or passport to prof their age.
- Ladies need to bring a scarf to cover their hair while inside the Blue mosque and Hagai Sofia
- Please wear clothes covering shoulders and knees for both women and men
- Grand bazaar is close on Sundays, it will be substitute with Spice Bazaar
- Grand Bazaar and Spice bazaars are closed on religious days, it will be substituted with Arasta Bazaar
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 194 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
9 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Traveler reviews
194 verified traveler reviews for Guided Hagia Sofia, Blue mosque, Basilica Cistern- Grand Bazaar. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Omer tour
Omer was a brilliant guide, very knowledgable, happy to answer all our questions but also not overwhelm is with information. His recommendations for things to do have been excellent. We would highly recommend this tour!
Response from the operator: Thank you for your lovely review! We’re delighted Ömer struck the right balance of information and conversation, and that his recommendations helped you enjoy more of Istanbul. We’ll happily share your kind words with him. Thank you for recommending the tour!
via Viator
The ancient world comes alive.
There is so much to see and learn on this amazing tour. Our guide Beyhan’s pride and wonder in these places, even though she has seen them many times, brought old stories to life and ignited curiosity in new ones that she passed on. The spectacle of all the sites is something I will never forget. A great tour.
Response from the operator: Thank you for your thoughtful review! We’re delighted Beyhan’s enthusiasm brought the stories behind these places to life and sparked your curiosity. It’s wonderful to hear the sights left such a lasting impression. We’ll gladly share your kind words with her!
via Viator
Fantastic tour!
His tour was absolutely 5 stars, Binnur is an amazing guide and the entire tour she was speaking about the history of Turkey and what each monument means and where we were. This tour is great value for money.
Response from the operator: His tour was absolutely 5 stars, Binnur is an amazing guide and the entire tour she was speaking about the history of Turkey and what each monument means and where we were. This tour is great value for mone
via Viator
Great guide Bahyan and super tour!
Our guide, Bahyan, was amazing!! So much knowledge and such a lovely way to communicate and to teach us all the history! The group size was just perfect (9 pax) and a perfect stop at a local coffeehouse where she invited us for coffee/tea and we could spend some time talking with the rest of our group. The tour finished at the gran Bazar, where Bahyan stayed with us for extra time to give us some ideas and advice about shops and food. Great tour and great guide! I would really recommend it!!💝
Response from the operator: Thank you for your lovely review! We’re delighted you enjoyed Beyhan’s storytelling, the small group and the chance to chat over coffee and tea. It’s wonderful to hear her extra tips at the Grand Bazaar made your visit even better. Thank you for recommending the tour—we’ll gladly share your kind words with her!
via Tripadvisor
Loved the Small Group Experience
Beyhan was a very kind and informative guide for our group of nine visitors. The sights on this tour are the most popular in Istanbul and quite close together. It was a Saturday morning and very crowded. However, Beyhan did an excellent job of keeping us from getting lost while also allowing us freedom to roam a bit. I think the cistern was the most interesting site for my spouse and me. However, the Sultanahmet (Blue) mosque was also impressive. We also appreciated that we were allowed to opt out of the Hagia Sophia as it is under heavy renovation. I really valued that this was a small, intimate group and just a much better experience than the 20 and more - sized groups coming off buses and cruise ships.
Response from the operator: Thank you for your thoughtful review! We’re glad Beyhan helped you navigate the Saturday crowds while giving you time to explore. It’s lovely to hear you appreciated the small group and flexibility, and especially enjoyed the Basilica Cistern and Blue Mosque. We’ll happily share your kind words with her!
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 3 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $57 to $60
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 72
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Who runs this experience
Operated by My Local Guide lstanbul, who run 5 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 73.0.
See everything My Local Guide lstanbul runsWhy this scores 84
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Guided Hagia Sofia, Blue mosque, Basilica Cistern- Grand Bazaar: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Istanbul.
How much does Guided Hagia Sofia, Blue mosque, Basilica Cistern- Grand Bazaar cost?
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Prices start at $57 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 Guided Hagia Sofia, Blue mosque, Basilica Cistern- Grand Bazaar take?
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Plan for about 3 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 Guided Hagia Sofia, Blue mosque, Basilica Cistern- Grand Bazaar worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 84 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 207 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 Guided Hagia Sofia, Blue mosque, Basilica Cistern- Grand Bazaar?
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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 Guided Hagia Sofia, Blue mosque, Basilica Cistern- Grand Bazaar suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Guided Hagia Sofia, Blue mosque, Basilica Cistern- Grand Bazaar?
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Around 72 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 3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Guided Hagia Sofia, Blue mosque, Basilica Cistern- Grand Bazaar 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 Guided Hagia Sofia, Blue mosque, Basilica Cistern- Grand Bazaar?
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Included: Profesional licensed English speaking guide; Tea and coffee; and Guiding inside the sites. Not included: Tickets will be provided in advance and there won't be time wasting in ticket lines; Lunch. Your guide will suggest you some local restaurants at the end of the tour for lunch; and Hotel pick up ( optional ). Please contact us if you need a pick up. +905342005565. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Guided Hagia Sofia, Blue mosque, Basilica Cistern- Grand Bazaar?
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Travel to the Sultanahmet Tram Station. From the tram station walk down the hill on the right side of the road toward to the little mosque Firuz ağa . Take the first right onto the Hippodrome ( square ). Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Guided Hagia Sofia, Blue mosque, Basilica Cistern- Grand Bazaar 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 Guided Hagia Sofia, Blue mosque, Basilica Cistern- Grand Bazaar?
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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 Guided Hagia Sofia, Blue mosque, Basilica Cistern- Grand Bazaar wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Guided Hagia Sofia, Blue mosque, Basilica Cistern- Grand Bazaar 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 Guided Hagia Sofia, Blue mosque, Basilica Cistern- Grand Bazaar?
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Across 207 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
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