Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour
Istanbul, Turkey

Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour

Outty Ranking 71 4.4 · 220 traveler reviews8 hoursFrom $95
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Outty Ranking

71/100

Strongly Recommended. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.4/5

Based on 220 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour worth booking?

Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour is a 8-hour experience in Istanbul, Turkey, from $95 per person. It scores 71 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.4/5 rating across 220 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
71 / 100
Rating
4.4/5 (220)
Duration
8 hours
From
$95 per person

Take a hassle-free tour of Istanbul's most famous attractions with your own private guide to lead the way. You'll enjoy personalized attention on your private tour of magical Istanbul and its signature sights: the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace.

What you get

    About this experience

    Take a hassle-free tour of Istanbul's most famous attractions with your own private guide to lead the way. You'll enjoy personalized attention on your private tour of magical Istanbul and its signature sights: the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace.

    What's included

    Included

    • Local guide
    • Hotel pickup and drop off
    • Transport by private vehicle

    Not included

    • Gratuities
    • Food and drinks, unless specified
    • Lunch

    What you'll see and do

    1. Blue Mosque

      Just across from the Hippodrome, the Sultan Ahmet Mosque (also known as the Blue Mosque) is a superb creation in the classical Ottoman style. The mosque has six towering minarets and 260 windows illuminating its vast main chamber, which is decorated with more than 20,000 Iznik tiles.

      30 minutes here

    2. Grand Bazaar

      In operation since the 14th century, the Grand Bazaar is one of the world's largest covered markets, with 58 streets and over 4,000 shops. The bazaar is specially known for its jewelry, leather, pottery, spices and carpets. (Closed on Sundays; additional time will be spent at the other locations.)

      75 minutes here

    3. Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque

      One of the finest and largest architectural works of art in the world, this former basilica and mosque is now the Saint Sophia Museum. Many historians have nominated it as the 8th wonder of the world. Take a moment to linger here to admire the fine Byzantine mosaics.

      60 minutes here · Admission not included

    4. TopkapI Palace

      The largest and oldest palace in the world, Topkapi is the crown jewel of the Ottoman Empire. With its treasury and exotic buildings overlooking the Golden Horn, your visit to Topkapi promises to be a truly fascinating experience. (Closed on Tuesdays; will be replaced with Istanbul Archaeology Museum)

      120 minutes here · Admission not included

    5. Basilica Cistern

      The Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayı), is the largest of several hundred ancient cisterns that lie beneath the city of Istanbul. The cistern, located 500 feet (150m) southwest of the Hagia Sophia on the historical peninsula of Sarayburnu, was built in the 6th century during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I.

      30 minutes here · Admission not included

    6. Hagia Irene Museum

      The Hagia Irene located in the outer courtyard of Topkapı Palace is the oldest church of the Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantine).

      30 minutes here · Admission not included

    7. German Fountain

      It was built in Germany and moved by ships and its construction was completed in Istanbul.

      10 minutes here

    8. Obelisk of Theodosius

      Obelisk of Theodosius: obelisk, originally erected for king Thutmose III of Egypt but transferred to Constantinople,

      10 minutes here

    9. Hippodrome

      Byzantine Hippodrome

      30 minutes here

    10. Divanyolu Street

      Divan Yolu, the "Road to the Imperial Council," was once the imperial road from Constantinople to Rome (map). It takes its Turkish name from Ottoman times, when it was in fact the "Road to the Imperial Council" (Divan) in Topkapı Palace.

      Pass by without stopping

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 45 minutes before departure.

    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
    Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
    Group size
    Up to 9 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Neon Tours

    Know before you go

    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Not recommended for children aged 4 and under
    • In the event of any museum closures, an alternative similar museum will be visited
    • Customers booking this tour for shore excursions will not have time to visit the Basilica Cistern, due to the limited time in Istanbul

    Photos

    Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour, photo 2Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour, photo 3Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour, photo 4Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour, photo 5Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour, photo 6Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 220 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    9 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    6 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Food and drink

    3 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Small groups

    3 mentions

    The group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.

    Photo opportunities

    2 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Traveler reviews

    220 verified traveler reviews for Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    151
    4 star
    38
    3 star
    13
    2 star
    8
    1 star
    10
    Sort
    Navigator37530062425 · September 2023

    A professional and brilliant experience from beginning to the end,guided by a very informative tour guide named Sevilay

    Did several stops exploring historical buildings with a rich history of Istambul.Ended with an epic and nostalgic Bosphorus cruise which passed near magnificent palaces,mosques ,through the Bosphorus bridge with beautiful sights on both the Asian and European sides.Taking home good memoirs and a gooth story to tell.

    Response from the operator: Dear Guest, we are very happy to hear that you were satisfied with our service. Your feedback is very helpful to us in improving our service. We hope that your entire trip to Turkey was wonderful and that you leave our country with beautiful memories. We would be delighted to see you in our country again. Thank you.

    via Tripadvisor

    JeffTychol · September 2023

    We recommend Sevilay!

    Sevilay did an incredible job as our tour guide. Adjusted itinerary order to help us minimize time in the sun and in lines, explained things very well and was extremely knowledgeable

    Response from the operator: Dear Guest, we are very happy to hear that you were satisfied with our service. Your feedback is very helpful to us in improving our service. We hope that your entire trip to Turkey was wonderful and that you leave our country with beautiful memories. We would be delighted to see you in our country again. Thank you.

    via Tripadvisor

    Edward_K · August 2023

    Amazing tour!

    Guide was very patient with us, as I had a muscle problem in my leg, and he waited for us! And gave us time to rest!

    Response from the operator: DEar Edward, Thank you for 5-starring and for the comment. It is our priority to extend true Turkish Hospitality among all our services. I am happy that our guide also made you feel that. Sincerely Yours, Batuhan

    via Viator

    Ananth_D · April 2023

    Wonderful experience...

    Wonderful experience thanks to Gur Kan who was our guide for the day. Enjoyed the history and the unique insights that helped us bring history to life.

    Response from the operator: Dear Guest, Thank you for your wonderfull feedback. It was a pleasure to serve you. Kind regards

    via Viator

    CurtS603 · March 2023

    The best one day private tour available to see Istanbul

    Seckin was a fabulous guide and we learned so much. We did the one day private tour and saw all the top historical items in istanbul. Our experience was fabulous and I would highly recommend this company and definitely Seckin as your tourist guide if he is available.

    Response from the operator: Dear Guest, Thank you for your positive feed back. We are happy to hear such good comments. Kind regards

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    8 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
    Price range
    $95 to $525
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    77
    Verdict
    Strongly Recommended

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Neon Tours, who run 17 experiences we rank across 5 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 53.3.

    See everything Neon Tours runs

    Why this scores 71

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)59
    Review evidence (18% weight)83
    Booking momentum (14% weight)79
    Value for money (12% weight)95
    Listing quality (10% weight)62
    Local standing (8% weight)16
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Istanbul.

    How much does Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour cost?

    +

    Prices start at $95 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 Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour 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 Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 71 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.4/5 across 220 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 Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour?

    +

    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 Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour 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 Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour?

    +

    Around 77 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 Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour 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 Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour?

    +

    Included: Local guide; Hotel pickup and drop off; and Transport by private vehicle. Not included: Gratuities; Food and drinks, unless specified; and Lunch. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 236 listed pickup locations in and around Istanbul. Be ready about 45 minutes before the start time.

    What languages is Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour 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 Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour?

    +

    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 Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Transportation options are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour 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 do travelers say about Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour?

    +

    Across 220 reviews averaging 4.4 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour.

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