You booked this experience
Make your trip unforgettable

Istanbul: Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque Guided & Small-Group Tour

57 Reviews 4.53 out of 5 stars Based on 57 reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and TripAdvisor |
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards.
Istanbul, Turkey
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 16 (0) days in advance.

3 hours (approx.)
Hotel pickup offered
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

Uncover the highlights of Istanbul on this guided walking tour. Step back in time as you explore the city’s rich history and breathtaking architecture, visiting iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Old City and the vibrant Grand Bazaar.

PICK UP POINT FOR CRUISE PASSENGERS
FRONT OF THE PORT BOSPHORUS HOTEL. OPPOSITE THE MAIN EXIT FOR CRUISE PASSENGERS

• Explore the rich history and significance of Istanbul at the Hagia Sophia.
• Admire the Blue Mosque's exquisite handmade blue Iznik tiles and six majestic minarets.
• Immerse in the lively ambiance of the Grand Bazaar as you meander through its bustling stalls.
• Stroll through the historic Hippodrome, once a hub of culture, sport and politics.
• Take in the sights of the German Fountain, Serpentine Column and the Column of Constantine

What's Included

  • Hotel Pickup (If option selected)
  • Blue Mosque Guided visit
  • Hagia Sophia Guided visit
  • Hotel Drop-off
  • Hagia Sophia skip the line entrance ticket
  • Food & Drinks
See 2 moreSee 3 more

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup point

Included with the option “T2M TOUR WITH HOTEL PICK-UP”.

Pickup details

Hotel pick-up from centrally located Istanbul hotels. Before the tour start time, each hotel there is a fixed pick up time.

OR
Meeting point

For the option “T2M TOUR WITHOUT HOTEL PICK-UP”.

Sultan Ahmet
Nakilbent Sk. 15/A, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye

Show on Google Maps

Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

Sultanahmet
Alemdar, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye

Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
Read more

Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

Blue Mosque

Meet your professional guide at the designated meeting point or enjoy convenient pickup from centrally located hotels.Blue Mosque, one of Istanbul’s most recognizable landmarks. Step inside to admire its graceful architecture, six distinctive minarets and beautiful interior featuring thousands of traditional blue Iznik tiles. Hear the story of Sultan Ahmed I and learn how this impressive mosque became one of the defining masterpieces of Classical Ottoman architecture.
Read more

45 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Hippodrome

Hippodrome of Constantinople, once the center of public life, ceremonies and sporting events in the Byzantine capital. As you walk through the square, discover the stories behind the German Fountain of Wilhelm II, the Serpentine Column, the Obelisk of Theodosius and the Column of Constantine. Your guide will explain how this remarkable area shaped daily life in ancient Constantinople.
Read more

45 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia, a monument that has stood at the heart of Istanbul for nearly 1,500 years. Built during the reign of Emperor Justinian I in the 6th century, this architectural wonder has served as a church, mosque and museum before becoming a mosque again. Discover the extraordinary history behind its impressive architecture and learn how Byzantine and Ottoman influences have shaped the monument visitors see today.
Read more

45 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Grand Bazaar

Before reaching the Grand Bazaar enjoy a brief stop at a local shop an ideal opportunity to pick up authentic souvenirs.Grand Bazaar, one of Istanbul’s most fascinating historic marketplaces. Before you begin exploring independently, your guide will introduce you to the bazaar’s history, traditions and importance to the city. Then enjoy free time to discover the Grand Bazaar at your own pace, wandering through its atmospheric covered lanes filled with shops selling carpets, jewelry, ceramics, textiles, spices, leather goods, souvenirs and more.
Read more

45 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Show 3 more stops

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Hagia Sophia skip the Line entrance ticket: €25 and must be paid in cash.
  • Even though you'll skip the ticket lines,the security checks at the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque are mandatory and cannot be bypassed.
  • The Grand Bazaar is closed on religious holidays and Sundays.

Frequently Asked Questions (8)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Istanbul: Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque Guided & Small-Group Tour?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (+03).This tour 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. Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-330554P10

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.53
57 reviews

Average 4.53 out of 5 stars based on 57 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
42
4 stars
7
3 stars
5
2 stars
2
1 star
1
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 16 (0) days in advance.

Similar Tours & Activities

Princes' Islands Tour from Istanbul

Cruise the Marmara Sea to Princes' Islands, first visiting Heybeliada and then visiting Buyukada, the popular summer resort with sandy beaches and pinewood scenery. These …More

Cruise the Marmara Sea to Princes' Islands, first visiting Heybeliada and then visiting Buyukada, the popular summer resort with sandy beaches and pinewood scenery. These...

6 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
3.7 (18)
from
$45

3 Days 2 Night Istanbul to Cappadocia Tour+Hot air Balloon Tour

Istanbul to Cappadocia by plane 3 days 2 night tour. Included All transfer,hotel two night accommodation in boutique hotel,2 days Cappadocia daily tours,Atv tour,Sunrise hot air …More

Istanbul to Cappadocia by plane 3 days 2 night tour. Included All transfer,hotel two night accommodation in boutique hotel,2 days Cappadocia daily tours,Atv tour,Sunrise hot air...

3 days Hotel pickup offered
4.9 (16)
from
$908

Topkapi Palace and Harem Istanbul Private Guided Tour

How did sultans rule an empire from Topkapi? Explore Ottoman courtyards, treasures and the Imperial Harem with regular tickets. Flexible options included. Choose one of …More

How did sultans rule an empire from Topkapi? Explore Ottoman courtyards, treasures and the Imperial Harem with regular tickets. Flexible options included. Choose one of...

180 to 330 minutes Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (1)
from
$131

Daily Sapanca & Maşukiye & Mahmudiye Tour with Lunch from Istanbul

Escape from the noisy and crowded streets of Istanbul and enjoy a relaxing with an official guide during full Day countryside Sapanca-Masukiye Nature trip. Visit …More

Escape from the noisy and crowded streets of Istanbul and enjoy a relaxing with an official guide during full Day countryside Sapanca-Masukiye Nature trip. Visit...

12 to 13 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
4.4 (17)
from
$44

Travelers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought

Bosphorus Cruise Boat Tour in Istanbul

Discover the beauty of Istanbul on a relaxing Bosphorus Cruise Tour and enjoy spectacular views from the water as you sail between Europe and Asia. …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out

Discover the beauty of Istanbul on a relaxing Bosphorus Cruise Tour and enjoy spectacular views from the water as you sail between Europe and Asia....

1 to 2 hours Free Cancellation
4.8 (1,049)
from
$7

Istanbul E-pass: Top Istanbul Attractions with Skip The Ticket Line

Istanbul E-pass is a fully digital sightseeing pass that covers over 100 top Istanbul Attractions. Choose your E-pass 1,2,3,5 or 7 days and enjoy the …More

Istanbul E-pass is a fully digital sightseeing pass that covers over 100 top Istanbul Attractions. Choose your E-pass 1,2,3,5 or 7 days and enjoy the...

1 to 7 days Free Cancellation
4.9 (1,421)
from
$143

Istanbul Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition

Discover the history and culture of the famous Whirling Dervishes during this 1-hour at Istanbul’s Hodjapasha. Wander the Whirling Dervishes’ museum and learn about their …More

Discover the history and culture of the famous Whirling Dervishes during this 1-hour at Istanbul’s Hodjapasha. Wander the Whirling Dervishes’ museum and learn about their...

1 hour Free Cancellation
4.1 (438)
from
$26

Istanbul Mega Lufer Dinner Cruise Bosphorus and Show Pvt Table

With the magical view of the Bosphorus, the historical silhouette of Istanbul, the sea and the unique beauty of the night, we are at your …More

With the magical view of the Bosphorus, the historical silhouette of Istanbul, the sea and the unique beauty of the night, we are at your...

3 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
4.7 (2,617)
from
$32

What's Included

Activity name

  • Hotel Pickup (If option selected)
  • Blue Mosque Guided visit
  • Hagia Sophia Guided visit
  • Hippodrome Guided visit
  • English-speaking tour guide
  • Hotel Drop-off
  • Hagia Sophia skip the line entrance ticket
  • Food & Drinks

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Please dress appropriately when entering sacred sites. Participants are advised to wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt. Please bring a scarf to cover head.
  • Hagia Sophia skip the Line entrance ticket: €25 and must be paid in cash.
  • Even though you'll skip the ticket lines,the security checks at the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque are mandatory and cannot be bypassed.
  • The Grand Bazaar is closed on religious holidays and Sundays.
  • The tour ends at the Grand Bazaar.
  • This is a shared transfer with Minibus or Midibus and pick up could be early or late. For each hotel there is a fixed pick-up time. before the tour starts time
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 14 travelers

Report Product Issue

Activity name