City Balloon Tours
Language $Currency
Login / Sign up
Bookings
Bookings
Wallet
$0.00
Wishlists
Wishlists
Rewards Rewards
Gift cards
Profile
Help Center
Language
Log out
Things To Do Things To Do Top 10 Top 10 City Tours City Tours Swamp Tours Swamp Tours Steamboat Natchez Steamboat Natchez Gift Cards Gift Cards Rewards Rewards Groups Groups FAQ FAQ Contact Contact
Start your search
Change your search
Place or activity
Select Dates
You booked this experience
You're departing on
Google Calendar
Apple Calendar
Microsoft Outlook
Make your trip unforgettable

Istanbul Private Tour Hagia Sophia, Basilica, Topkapi, Bosphorus

18 Reviews 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 18 reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and TripAdvisor |
Recommended by 100% of reviewers
100% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
|
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards. Istanbul, Turkey
Book online or call us

from $46 per person

Lowest Price Guarantee
Boat trip
Dolmabahce Palace
Hagia Sophia Mosque
Istanbul Private Tour Hagia Sophia, Basilica, Topkapi, Bosphorus Image 4
Dolmabahce Palace
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 22 (0) days in advance.
8 to 9 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

Discover Istanbul at your own pace on a private tour created exclusively for your family or group. With a licensed private guide dedicated to you, explore iconic landmarks including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace while hearing the stories and history behind each site.

Continue through the Grand Bazaar and experience Istanbul from the water on a Bosphorus ferry ride. For an upgraded experience, a private yacht can also be arranged upon request.

With no other travelers to accommodate, the day offers a more personal and flexible way to experience Istanbul—ideal for couples, families and groups who want to make the most of their time in the city.

What's Included

  • Professional guidance service in English
  • Lunch
  • Museum entrance fees are not included in the tour price.
  • Gratuities
See 3 more

Meeting Location

Meeting point

Binbirdirek
At Meydanı Caddesi, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye

Show on Google Maps

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

The Blue Mosque

The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, famously known as the Blue Mosque, is an iconic historical mosque located in Istanbul, Turkey. Commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I, it was constructed between 1609 and 1616 by the architect Sedefkâr Mehmed Ağa. Its popular name, "Blue Mosque," comes from the thousands of handmade blue Iznik tiles that adorn its interior, creating a mesmerizing blue hue, especially when lit. Unique for having six minarets, the mosque is a magnificent example of classical Ottoman architecture and continues to function as an active house of worship today, while also being one of Istanbul's most prominent tourist attractions.
Read more

30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Hippodrome

The Hippodrome of Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) was once the vibrant heart of the city's public life, serving as a grand arena for chariot races, gladiatorial games, and public ceremonies during the Roman and Byzantine Empires. Constructed in the 3rd century AD and expanded significantly by Emperor Constantine the Great in the 4th century, it was designed in the shape of a U with tiered seating, capable of holding tens of thousands of spectators. Though most of its original structure is gone, the modern-day Sultanahmet Square largely occupies its former site and still features several significant ancient monuments that once adorned its spina (middle barrier). These include the Egyptian Obelisk of Thutmose III, the Serpent Column (from Delphi), and the Walled Obelisk. Today, it stands as an open public space, allowing visitors to walk upon the ground where emperors once watched thrilling spectacles.
Read more

20 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque

The Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya in Turkish) is a monumental architectural masterpiece in Istanbul, reflecting centuries of shifting empires and faiths. Originally consecrated as a Christian cathedral in 537 AD under the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, it was renowned for its massive dome and intricate mosaics, becoming the largest interior space in the world at the time and a symbol of Byzantine architectural genius. Following the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453, Sultan Mehmed II converted it into a mosque, adding minarets, a mihrab, and a minbar while preserving many of its Christian elements. In 1935, under the secular Republic of Turkey, it was transformed into a museum, symbolizing a bridge between cultures. However, in 2020, it was once again reclassified and opened as a mosque. Today, the Hagia Sophia stands as a breathtaking blend of Byzantine and Ottoman artistry, continuing to awe visitors with its rich history and architectural grandeur.
Read more

40 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı in Turkish) is the largest and one of the most magnificent ancient underground cisterns in Istanbul. Built in the 6th century during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, its primary purpose was to supply water to the Great Palace and other imperial buildings nearby. Nicknamed the "Sunken Palace" due to its grand scale and numerous columns, the cistern measures approximately 140 meters by 70 meters and can hold up to 80,000 cubic meters of water. It features 336 marble columns, each about 9 meters high, arranged in 12 rows. Among its most intriguing features are two columns whose bases are carved into inverted Medusa heads, their origin and exact purpose still subjects of speculation.
Read more

40 minutes Admission Ticket Free

TopkapI Palace

Topkapi Palace served as the primary residence and administrative center of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. Commissioned by Sultan Mehmed II after the conquest of Constantinople in 1453, the palace expanded over centuries into a vast complex of courtyards, gardens, pavilions, and ceremonial halls. Highlights include the Imperial Treasury, home to remarkable objects such as the Spoonmaker’s Diamond and the Topkapi Dagger. Converted into a museum in 1924, the palace offers a fascinating insight into Ottoman court life, government, art, and tradition.Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays. On Tuesdays, Dolmabahce Palace is visited instead.
Read more

2 hours Admission Ticket Free

Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı in Turkish) in Istanbul is one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, an iconic landmark that has been a bustling center of trade since its establishment shortly after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in the mid-15th century. Spanning over 61 covered streets and housing more than 4,000 shops, it's a labyrinthine masterpiece designed to cater to every imaginable need. Originally built as a center for textile trading, its offerings expanded over centuries to include jewelry, ceramics, spices, carpets, leather goods, antiques, and much more. Beyond its vast array of goods, the Grand Bazaar is an architectural marvel, with painted ceilings, intricate arches, and a vibrant atmosphere that immerses visitors in a sensory experience of colors, sounds, and aromas. It remains a magnet for millions of visitors annually, embodying centuries of Turkish commercial history and culture. ***The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.
Read more

1 hour Admission Ticket Free

Bosphorus Strait

A Bosphorus boat trip offers an unforgettable way to experience Istanbul, providing a unique vantage point of the city where two continents meet. The Bosphorus Strait itself is a natural waterway connecting the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara, effectively dividing Istanbul into its European and Asian sides. These popular cruises allow passengers to glide past an incredible array of historical and modern landmarks lining both shores. You'll see magnificent Ottoman palaces like Dolmabahçe and Beylerbeyi, grand mosques, historic fortresses like Rumeli Hisarı, charming wooden Ottoman mansions (yalı), and modern bridges connecting the continents. The trip offers breathtaking panoramic views, showcasing Istanbul's diverse architecture, lush hillsides, and the vibrant maritime traffic that constantly traverses this strategic waterway, providing a serene yet dynamic perspective on the city's timeless beauty and rich history.
Read more

1 hour 30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Dolmabahce Palace (pass by)

As Topkapı Palace is closed on Tuesdays, we instead visit Dolmabahçe Palace, a dazzling 19th-century marvel and the former administrative heart of the late Ottoman Empire. This glamorous palace was home to the last Ottoman Sultans.
Read more
Show 7 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
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Frequently Asked Questions (8)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Istanbul Private Tour Hagia Sophia, Basilica, Topkapi, Bosphorus?

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?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-328634P3

Traveler Photos

Reviews

5.00
18 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 18 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
18
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.
Istanbul Tours
Attractions
Guides
Calendar
View more

Similar Tours & Activities

Istanbul Food Tour - History and Culture of Turkish Culinary
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.9 (280)

Istanbul Food Tour - History and Culture of Turkish Culinary

Experience the true flavors of Istanbul on this unforgettable food tour through the lively Beyoğlu (Pera) neighborhood. Perfect for food lovers, this small-group experience (limited...

3 hours 30 minutes Free Cancellation
4.9 (280)
from
$108
9-Day Private Cappadocia, Göbeklitepe, Nemrut & Mardin Tour

9-Day Private Cappadocia, Göbeklitepe, Nemrut & Mardin Tour

Travel through thousands of years of Anatolian and Mesopotamian history on a private nine-day journey from Istanbul. Fly to Cappadocia and spend three nights at...

9 days Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
from
$3,481
6 Days Guided Istanbul and Cappadocia Tour
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
5.0 (24)

6 Days Guided Istanbul and Cappadocia Tour

In 6 Days you can visit the most popular 2 places in TURKEY, Istanbul, and Cappadocia. *You travel by plane between the cities and save...

6 days Free Cancellation
5.0 (24)
from
$1,550
Istanbul Constantinople City Walls and Chora Church Private Tour
5.0 (21)

Istanbul Constantinople City Walls and Chora Church Private Tour

We will drive you by the Old City Walls of Constantinople while our guide will be giving you all historical information behind of these walls....

4 to 5 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (21)
from
$399
Istanbul Food Tour - History and Culture of Turkish Culinary

Experience the true flavors of Istanbul on this unforgettable food tour through the lively Beyoğlu (Pera) neighborhood. Perfect for food lovers, this small-group experience (limited …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.9 (280)

Istanbul Food Tour - History and Culture of Turkish Culinary

4.9 (280)

Experience the true flavors of Istanbul on this unforgettable food tour through the lively Beyoğlu (Pera) neighborhood. Perfect for food lovers, this small-group experience (limited...

3 hours 30 minutes Free Cancellation
4.9 (280)
from
$108
9-Day Private Cappadocia, Göbeklitepe, Nemrut & Mardin Tour

Travel through thousands of years of Anatolian and Mesopotamian history on a private nine-day journey from Istanbul. Fly to Cappadocia and spend three nights at …More

9-Day Private Cappadocia, Göbeklitepe, Nemrut & Mardin Tour

Travel through thousands of years of Anatolian and Mesopotamian history on a private nine-day journey from Istanbul. Fly to Cappadocia and spend three nights at...

9 days Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
from
$3,481
6 Days Guided Istanbul and Cappadocia Tour

In 6 Days you can visit the most popular 2 places in TURKEY, Istanbul, and Cappadocia. *You travel by plane between the cities and save …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
5.0 (24)

6 Days Guided Istanbul and Cappadocia Tour

5.0 (24)

In 6 Days you can visit the most popular 2 places in TURKEY, Istanbul, and Cappadocia. *You travel by plane between the cities and save...

6 days Free Cancellation
5.0 (24)
from
$1,550
Istanbul Constantinople City Walls and Chora Church Private Tour

We will drive you by the Old City Walls of Constantinople while our guide will be giving you all historical information behind of these walls. …More

5.0 (21)

Istanbul Constantinople City Walls and Chora Church Private Tour

5.0 (21)

We will drive you by the Old City Walls of Constantinople while our guide will be giving you all historical information behind of these walls....

4 to 5 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (21)
from
$399

Travelers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought

Bosphorus Cruise Boat Tour in Istanbul
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.8 (1,049)

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....

1 to 2 hours Free Cancellation
4.8 (1,049)
from
$7
Istanbul E-pass: Top Istanbul Attractions with Skip The Ticket Line
4.9 (1,421)

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...

1 to 7 days Free Cancellation
4.9 (1,421)
from
$143
Istanbul Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition
4.1 (437)

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...

1 hour Free Cancellation
4.1 (437)
from
$26
Istanbul Mega Lufer Dinner Cruise Bosphorus and Show Pvt Table
4.7 (2,614)

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...

3 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
4.7 (2,614)
from
$32
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
4.8 (1,049)

Bosphorus Cruise Boat Tour in Istanbul

4.8 (1,049)

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

4.9 (1,421)

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

4.9 (1,421)

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

4.1 (437)

Istanbul Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition

4.1 (437)

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 (437)
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

4.7 (2,614)

Istanbul Mega Lufer Dinner Cruise Bosphorus and Show Pvt Table

4.7 (2,614)

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 (2,614)
from
$32

Frequently Asked Questions (8)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Balloon Tours customers.

Filter by:

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Istanbul Private Tour Hagia Sophia, Basilica, Topkapi, Bosphorus?
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).
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • Professional guidance service in English.
The following is NOT included:
  • Lunch.
  • Museum entrance fees are not included in the tour price.
  • Gratuities.
Apr 2025
Q: What is the weather cancellation policy?
A:

This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible tour?
A:

Accessibility information for the Istanbul Private Tour Hagia Sophia, Basilica, Topkapi, Bosphorus is as follows:

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Istanbul Private Tour Hagia Sophia, Basilica, Topkapi, Bosphorus will be included in your confirmation email from City Balloon Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024
Q: How long does a refund take to reach my card, and can I get it faster?
A:

Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.

Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.

If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.

Oct 2026

What's Included

Activity name

  • Professional guidance service in English
  • Lunch
  • Museum entrance fees are not included in the tour price.
  • Gratuities

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

Report Product Issue

Activity name