
Highlights of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace w/ Lunch
Traveler rating
Not yet rated
No traveler reviews have been published for this experience yet.
Quick answer
Is Highlights of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace w/ Lunch worth booking?
Highlights of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace w/ Lunch is a 8-hour experience in Istanbul, Turkey, from $113 per person. It scores 53 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 53 / 100
- Rating
- Not yet rated
- Duration
- 8 hours
- From
- $113 per person
Discover the heart of Istanbul on this full-day guided tour that covers the city’s most iconic landmarks. Visit the breathtaking Hagia Sophia, explore the majestic Topkapi Palace—including its courtyards and treasures—and admire the architectural beauty of the Blue Mosque. Stroll through the historic Hippodrome and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar. Enjoy a delicious traditional Turkish lunch at a local restaurant included in the tour. With expert commentary from a licensed guide, this experience offers a perfect introduction to Istanbul’s rich cultural and imperial past.
What you get
About this experience
Discover the heart of Istanbul on this full-day guided tour that covers the city’s most iconic landmarks. Visit the breathtaking Hagia Sophia, explore the majestic Topkapi Palace—including its courtyards and treasures—and admire the architectural beauty of the Blue Mosque. Stroll through the historic Hippodrome and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar. Enjoy a delicious traditional Turkish lunch at a local restaurant included in the tour. With expert commentary from a licensed guide, this experience offers a perfect introduction to Istanbul’s rich cultural and imperial past.
What's included
Included
- Hotel Pick-up and Drop Off
- Lunch
- Official Guide
Not included
- Entrance fees
What you'll see and do
Hippodrome
Your licensed tour guide will provide a brief historical overview of the Hippodrome of Constantinople as we pass by its landmarks, including the Serpent Column, Obelisk of Theodosius, and the German Fountain. This is an open-air stop without entrance requirements.
45 minutes here · Admission included
Blue Mosque
Your licensed guide will accompany you inside the Blue Mosque and explain its historical significance, unique architectural features, and cultural importance in Ottoman and Islamic history. You’ll explore the main prayer hall, stunning Iznik tiles, and the impressive domes.
45 minutes here
Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
Your guide will take you inside Hagia Sophia and explain its layered history, from its time as a church and mosque to its current function. You’ll discover stunning mosaics, the imperial gate, and learn about its unique architectural structure.)
60 minutes here · Admission included
Grand Bazaar
Your guide will lead you through the lively, maze-like streets of the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. You'll explore a selection of its 4,000+ shops offering everything from handmade carpets and jewelry to ceramics and spices. Along the way, your guide will share tips on local bargaining culture, artisan traditions, and must-see stalls — with time to browse or shop if you wish.
90 minutes here
TopkapI Palace
Our licensed guide will take you through the courtyards and key sections of Topkapi Palace, including the Imperial Gate, Audience Chamber, and Sacred Relics Room. Along the way, you’ll hear captivating stories about the sultans, the Ottoman court, and the palace’s historical significance. You'll also enjoy panoramic views over the Bosphorus from the palace terraces.
90 minutes here · Admission not included
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.
Options you can book
Highlights of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace
Pickup included
Full Day Tour W/ Yatch Tour
+ Bosphorus Sunset Yatch Cruis Pickup included
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 10 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Ticket For Tourists
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Photos






Good to know
- Duration
- 8 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $113 to $160
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 0
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Who runs this experience
Operated by Ticket For Tourists, who run 3 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 44.5.
See everything Ticket For Tourists runsWhy this scores 53
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Highlights of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace w/ Lunch: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Istanbul.
How much does Highlights of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace w/ Lunch cost?
+
Prices start at $113 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 Highlights of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace w/ Lunch take?
+
Plan for about 8 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 Highlights of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace w/ Lunch worth it?
+
It holds an Outty Ranking of 53 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (0/5 across 0 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 Highlights of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace w/ Lunch?
+
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 Highlights of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace w/ Lunch suitable for kids and families?
+
Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Highlights of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace w/ Lunch?
+
Around 0 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?
+
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 8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Highlights of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace w/ Lunch start and how do I get there?
+
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?
+
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?
+
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?
+
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?
+
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 Highlights of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace w/ Lunch?
+
Included: Hotel Pick-up and Drop Off; Lunch; and Official Guide. Not included: Entrance fees. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Highlights of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace w/ Lunch include hotel pickup?
+
Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 708 listed pickup locations in and around Istanbul. Be ready about 30 minutes before the start time.
What languages is Highlights of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace w/ Lunch offered in?
+
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 Highlights of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace w/ Lunch?
+
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 Highlights of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace w/ Lunch wheelchair or stroller accessible?
+
The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Highlights of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace w/ Lunch if the weather is bad?
+
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 booking options are available for Highlights of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace w/ Lunch?
+
There are 2 options to choose from, including Highlights of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace, Full Day Tour W/ Yatch Tour. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
Ready to lock in your spot?
Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Highlights of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace w/ Lunch.
Pick your date




