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Half-Day Istanbul Old City Semi-Private Tour (Up to 10 Guests)

1 Review 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 1 reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 100% of reviewers | Istanbul, Turkey
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 22 (0) days in advance.

4 to 6 hours (approx.)
Hotel pickup offered
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

⭐ Enjoy a crowd-free experience with a small group of max 10 travelers
⭐ Discover Istanbul’s most iconic monuments without feeling rushed
⭐ Capture stunning photos at every stop with plenty of time to explore
⭐ A perfect half-day plan for those with limited time but big expectations

A thousand years of history, a group of just 10 guests, and a dedicated expert guide—this tour is crafted to showcase Sultanahmet at its best. Hear the ancient stories of the Hippodrome, marvel at the Blue Mosque’s stunning design, and step inside Hagia Sophia’s unmatched historic atmosphere. A memorable half-day Istanbul experience awaits.

What's Included

  • Hotel pick-up & drop-off - Valid for "Pick-up/Drop-off at Hotels" option
  • Port pick-up & drop-off - Valid for "Pick-up/Drop-off at Galataport" option
  • Semi-private tour limited to 10 guests per group
  • Meals & Drinks
  • Hagia Sophia Upper Floor / Gallery
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Meeting and Pickup

Pickup point

Included with the options “Pick-up/Drop-off at Hotels” and “Pick-up/Drop-off at Galataport”.

OR
Meeting point

For the option “Walking Tour”.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

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.
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Galataport

OPTION OF “PICK-UP/DROP-OFF AT GALATAPORT” : This option includes pick-up and drop-off services by transportation from Galataport Cruise Port in Istanbul. Your private tour guide will meet you at Galataport Cruise Port, and then your private tour of Istanbul’s Historical Peninsula will begin.
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30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Istanbul

OPTION OF “PICK-UP/DROP-OFF AT HOTELS” : This option includes pick-up and drop-off services by transportation from hotels in Istanbul. Your private tour guide will meet you at the reception of your hotel, and then your private tour of Istanbul’s Historical Peninsula will begin.
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1 hour Admission Ticket Free

Sultanahmet Square

OPTION OF “WALKING TOUR” : The meeting point for this option is the German Fountain in Sultanahmet Square. Your private tour guide will be waiting with a signboard displaying your name to greet you. After meeting your guide, your guided walking tour will begin. *** This option does not include pick-up and drop-off transportation services.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

German Fountain

Located at the entrance of Sultanahmet Square, the German Fountain immediately captivates visitors with its elegant architecture and intriguing history. Gifted by German Emperor Wilhelm II in 1901 to commemorate his visit to Istanbul, this octagonal structure features a striking neo-Byzantine design and a dome decorated with shimmering golden mosaics. Offering a peaceful corner amid the lively square, the fountain stands as a symbol of friendship between the Ottoman Empire and Germany.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Hippodrome

The Hippodrome invites travelers to step into the grandeur of ancient Constantinople, once the beating heart of social and sporting life in the Byzantine Empire. This vast square, where thousands once gathered to watch thrilling chariot races, now hosts remarkable monuments such as the Serpent Column, the Obelisk of Theodosius, and the Walled Obelisk. As visitors stroll through the area, they can almost hear the echoes of cheering crowds and feel the pulse of centuries-old imperial ceremonies.
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20 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Blue Mosque

With its six slender minarets rising gracefully into the sky, the Blue Mosque is one of Istanbul’s most iconic architectural treasures. Named after the exquisite blue İznik tiles that adorn its interior, the mosque offers a serene atmosphere enhanced by soft light filtering through its stained-glass windows. The harmony of domes, semi-domes, and detailed craftsmanship showcases the pinnacle of classical Ottoman architecture. Visitors leave with a sense of peace and admiration for the artistry that defines this sacred space.
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1 hour Admission Ticket Free

Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque

A masterpiece that has shaped the soul of Istanbul for over 1,400 years, Hagia Sophia stands as a testament to the city's layered heritage. Built in 537 as the grand basilica of the Byzantine Empire, its immense dome, intricate mosaics, and ingenious engineering continue to inspire awe. Having served as a church, a mosque, and a museum over the centuries, Hagia Sophia embodies the rich cultural fusion of civilizations. Every visitor is drawn into its profound atmosphere, where history seems to whisper from the walls.
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1 hour Admission Ticket Free

Sultanahmet District

For guests who have purchased the “Walking Tour” option, our services will conclude at this point. Your guide will provide any final assistance you may need before the tour ends.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Galataport

For guests who have selected the “Pick-up/Drop-off at Galataport” option, we will provide a comfortable return transfer back to Galataport Cruise Port at the end of the tour. Please follow your guide’s instructions for boarding the vehicle.
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30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

İstanbul

For guests who have purchased the “Pick-up/Drop-off at Hotels” option, we will provide a comfortable return transfer back to your hotel at the end of the tour. Please follow your guide’s instructions for boarding the vehicle.
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1 hour Admission Ticket Free

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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • OPTION OF PICK-UP / DROP-OFF AT HOTELS : This option includes pick-up and drop-off services by transportation from hotels in Istanbul.
  • OPTION OF WALKING TOUR : This option excludes pick-up and drop-off services. The meeting point for this option is the German Fountain in Sultanahmet Square. You should be meeting with your tour guide ontime at German fountain.
  • A minimum of 2 people per booking is required.

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Half-Day Istanbul Old City Semi-Private Tour (Up to 10 Guests)?

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). 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?

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Activity code: C-236057P88

Traveler Photos

Reviews

5.00
1 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 1 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
1
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 22 (0) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • Hotel pick-up & drop-off - Valid for "Pick-up/Drop-off at Hotels" option
  • Port pick-up & drop-off - Valid for "Pick-up/Drop-off at Galataport" option
  • Semi-private tour limited to 10 guests per group
  • Professional tour guide who licensed by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism
  • Meals & Drinks
  • Hagia Sophia Upper Floor / Gallery

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • 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
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • OPTION OF PICK-UP / DROP-OFF AT GALATAPORT : This option includes pick-up and drop-off services by transportation from Galataport Cruise Port in Istanbul.
  • OPTION OF PICK-UP / DROP-OFF AT HOTELS : This option includes pick-up and drop-off services by transportation from hotels in Istanbul.
  • OPTION OF WALKING TOUR : This option excludes pick-up and drop-off services. The meeting point for this option is the German Fountain in Sultanahmet Square. You should be meeting with your tour guide ontime at German fountain.
  • A minimum of 2 people per booking is required.
  • Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults. If you will be 1 adult + 1 child, the local tour operator can request & charge the amount of 2 adults.
  • Please note that if you cancel or skip any part of the itinerary during the tour, no refund will be provided for the cancelled or skipped portions.
  • All the information provided above forms part of the terms and conditions for tour. You have been confirmed your acceptance of these when you book this tour. The local tour operator clearly specifies the details in the program, explanations, and reservation options, and is responsible only for the services indicated. That's why, please read those details while booking this tour.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers

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