Heart & Soul of Istanbul Tour

Essential Free Cultural Tour of Istanbul

/10 (309 votes)

Istanbul, Turkey

2.5 Hours

About this tour

Apart from history, culture, art, architecture, and food, Istanbul brings the charm of the Turkish old tales together with a modern impressive skyline downtown.

Whether you are looking for ancient architecture or modern skyscrapers, you will find them all in the city of Istanbul! Istanbul’s old city is a historic peninsula and was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO because of the large number of historical and architectural masterpieces concentrated in the area, a staggering diversity of structures from Byzantine churches and civil structures to Ottoman palaces, libraries, baths and mosques. Learn about the area’s history from your guide. Stop by the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque and the Grand Bazaar. Whether you feel like walking the ancient city walls, haggling in historic bazaars or absorbing the sanctity of mosques, or perhaps watching the sun go down on the Golden Horn or relaxing in a Turkish bath, there’s plenty you can do in Old Istanbul, aptly known as “the city of the world’s desire.”

Tour Highlights

  • Skip the lines at the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace
  • Learn about Istanbul’s history from your guide
  • Explore the winding streets of the Grand Bazaar

Practical information

What’s Included

  • Professional guide

Not Included

  • Entrance fee to attractions
  • Lunch
  • Gratuities
  • Transportation to/from attractions

Additional information

Operated by History Travel

Reviews

/10 (309 votes)

Istanbul old town is such a very big and interesting place, and I’m glad this tour almost covered the “touristy” areas. Thank you, it has been fun and knowledgeable.

Review by Michelle-London