Echoes of Empires in Sultanahmet Old City-Private Tour
This 6-hour cultural walking tour provides a captivating journey through Istanbul's most iconic landmarks with visits to the following museums. Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya); Topkapi Palace Museum; Roman (Basilica) Cistern; Lunch break; Grand Bazaar: The tour concludes with a visit to the Grand Bazaar, a bustling market where you can shop for a variety of goods, including rugs. If desired, your guide can assist with rug shopping.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
In front of McDonalds at Sultanahmet tour area ( Near the Grand Bazaar)
- In front of Mc Donalds at Divanyolu caddesi No 15 Sultanahmet. The street where the tram passes in Sultanahmet. Coming by tram; get off at Sultanahmet and walk 3 minutes to the meeting point. Private hotel pick up and drop off with transportation available at an extra cost.. please contact.
Topkapi Palace Museum ( closed on Tuesdays)
Welcome to Topkapi Palace, the home of the Ottoman sultans for over 400 years! As we explore, you’ll see amazing courtyards, beautiful tiles, and great views of the Bosphorus. We’ll visit the Harem, where the sultan’s family lived, and the Treasury, with its incredible jewels and famous Topkapi dagger. I’ll share stories about the sultans, point out hidden gems, and make sure you get a real feel for life in the palace. It’s not just a building—it’s a step back in time!
Roman Cistern Museum
Visit Yerebatan Cistern, one of Istanbul’s most fascinating hidden spots! Walk among hundreds of ancient columns reflected in the water and feel the cool, quiet atmosphere beneath the city. Keep an eye out for the famous Medusa heads—they have some intriguing secrets! I’ll share stories about how this incredible underground water reservoir kept the city alive and the legends that surround it. It’s history with a little bit of mystery!
Lunch/Drink break
We’ll take a short lunch or drink break to recharge our batteries before continuing the tour.
Ayasofya Mosque /Museum
Ayasofya, one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks! Once a church, then a mosque, then a museum and now a mosque again, it’s a place full of history. You’ll see its stunning domes, mosaics, and calligraphy, each telling a story of centuries past. I’ll share fascinating tales about emperors, sultans, and the secrets hidden in its walls. Walking here feels like stepping back in time—you’ll definitely want your camera ready! Ladies do not forget to bring a scarf..
IMPORTANT : Please note that Ayasofya has been under major restoration since November 2025. It is open, but scaffolding limits the interior view. You may choose to visit only the exterior and replace it with the Blue Mosque. Please let us know your preference before the tour.
Grand Bazaar
Get ready to explore the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets! With over 4,000 shops, you’ll find everything from handmade rugs and leather goods to jewelry, ceramics, and souvenirs. I’ll guide you through the maze of colorful streets, share tips for bargaining like a pro, and point out hidden gems that many visitors miss. It’s not just shopping—it’s an experience full of sights, smells, and stories!
IMPORTANT: The Historical Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays and during religious holidays. The Spice Bazaar is open 7 days a week.
Carpet shopping
We can also do optional carpet shopping if you’re interested—no pressure, just a chance to see some beautiful handmade rugs and learn a bit about them.
If not interested in carpet shopping..the tour ends at the Grand Bazaar
Ending Point
Tour will end around the Grand Bazaar
Want to personalize this tour?
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This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Guide fee only
Museum tickets are not included. Your guide will provide fast-track tickets, to be paid in cash on the spot. The ticket prices listed are valid as of November 2025, but may change during the year due to Turkey’s high inflation rate.
Topkapı Palace Museum ticket fast track : 60EUR per person
Ayasofya Mosque/Museum ticket fast track : 30EUR per person
Roman Cistern Museum ticket fast track : 40 EUR per person
Gratutity
Lunch, drinks etc
Transportation (if required-pleas ask)
Tour Important Information
* Duration: Approximately 6 hours of private walking tour.
* Sites Covered: Topkapi Palace, Ayasofya (Hagia Sophia), Yerebatan Cistern, and Grand Bazaar. Blue Mosque from outside because of long lines and limited visiting hours.
* Highlights: Explore the Ottoman sultans’ palace, iconic mosaics and domes of Ayasofya, the mysterious underground cistern, and the vibrant shops of the Grand Bazaar.
* Guided Experience: Expert local guide to share history, fascinating stories, and insider tips at each site.
* Optional Activities: Carpet shopping or exploring shops at the Grand Bazaar if interested.
* Breaks: Short lunch or drink break to recharge during the tour.
* Walking Tour: Fully on foot; comfortable shoes recommended.
* Customizable Pace: Tour can be tailored based on your interests and energy.
* Ladies: Please bring a shawl to cover your head when visiting Ayasofya. Shorts and sleeveless tops should also be covered for the visit. Men also should wear shorts below their knees..
IMPORTANT: The Historical Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays and during religious holidays. The Spice Bazaar is open 7 days a week.
IMPORTANT : Please note that Ayasofya has been under major restoration since November 2025. It is open, but scaffolding limits the interior view. You may choose to visit only the exterior and replace it with the Blue Mosque. Please let us know your preference before the tour.
Tuesdays Topkapı closed
Sundays Grand Bazaar closed
Important message from the supplier
I am quite flexible to work with, so please feel free to contact me for any last-minute bookings. I will confirm your request based on my availability. All of my tours are fully customizable according to your interests. We can focus on shopping, food, museums, or simply explore the city on foot.
I am based in Istanbul, but I also organize tours in Cappadocia and Ephesus. I can personally guide your tours if my travel expenses are covered.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
About Tour Guide Ali Y.
Born and raised in Istanbul...%100 Turkish.. I am a licensed tour guide and travel expert. As the founder of Ali's Protravel & Tours, I’m passionate about creating unforgettable cultural and personalized tours across Istanbul and Turkey. I’m also a rug enthusiast and the author of Buying Oriental Rugs - Revealing All the Secrets. Helping guests find their dream rug through my trusted local connections is one of the most rewarding parts of my work. Beyond tours, I love exploring politics, religious history, good food, and traveling. When not working, you’ll find me at the gym (balancing my love for baklava) or photographing flowers in city parks.
$300/ per group
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