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Cultural & Theme Tours in Istanbul

Live prices, traveller ratings and availability. Istanbul guide

2,384 tours & activities

Best Of Istanbul: 1, 2 or 3 Day Private Guided Tour (opens in a new tab)

550 3 days

Discover Istanbul’s vibrant culture and rich history with a customizable private guided tour. Whether you have one, two, or three days, your expert guide will tailor the experience to your interests and preferences. 1-Day Tour: Visit top attractions including the German Fountain, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, and Grand Bazaar. 2-Day Tour: Enjoy all Day 1 highlights plus a Bosphorus Cruise by public ferry, Dolmabahce Palace, Istiklal Street, Taksim Square, Cicek Passage, an exterior view of Galata Tower, and the Spice Market. 3-Day Tour: Delve deeper with Pierre Loti Panoramic Hill, the colorful Fener and Balat districts, Suleymaniye Mosque, and St. Stephen Church (Iron Church). Enjoy the flexibility to adjust your itinerary, the personal touch of a private guide, and the convenience of complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off—making the most of your short time in Istanbul.

from$65

Basilica Cistern Skip the Line Ticket with Audio Guide (opens in a new tab)

213 45 min – 1 h 40 min

Visit the biggest ancient water cistern built in 336 with the two very famous Medusa heads. The Basilica Cistern is one of the most visited museums in Istanbul. Especially in spring, summer and fall there are very long queues in front of the ticket office. Thanks to our service you get inside the Basilica Cistern the fastest way. Fast and Easy Access. Visit one of the most famous landmarks with a pre-booked entry ticket and start exploring right away. Your ticket will be sent to you by email 24 hours before your visit — please remember to check your inbox and spam folder. Audo guiding service in English, German, French, Italian, Spanish After your museum tour you can stay inside and discover the Basilica Cistern on your own pace. PLEASE NOTE: IT IS NOT POSSIBLE TO SKIP OR BYPASS SECURITY CHECKS AT THE ENTRANCE. DURING THE HIGH SEASON, WAITING TIMES FOR SECURITY MAY TAKE UP TO ONE HOUR.

from$65.26

Daily Gallipoli Tour from Istanbul (opens in a new tab)

83 13 h – 14 h

Following early departure from your hotel we drive about five hours and arrive to Eceabat where we have lunch. Following lunch we drive to the entrance of the Gelibolu National Park. We will pay visit to Kabatepe War Museum, Beach Cemetery (John Simpson´s Grave), ANZAC Cove, Arı Burnu (First ANZAC landing place), LonePine Cemetery (Australian memorial), Johnston´s Jolly (Walk in the ANZAC trenches),View Shrapnel Valley,Turkish Memorial,The Nek and Walker´s Ridge,Chunuk Bair (Main New Zealand memorial). Following the tour we drive back to Istanbul.

from$225

Istanbul Highlights! Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapı and More (opens in a new tab)

692 8 h – 9 h

This tour is a must in Istanbul with a small group (10 people max) with all the tickets included! We start from German Fountain- a gift of Kaiser Wilhelm next to Roman Hippodrome, where the chariot races were organised and take place. Blue Mosque the only mosque with six minarets. Next, you will see the. Hagia Sophia - The Church of Divine Wisdom is the highlight of this day. Following the visits you will be guided to Nakkas Cistern and presented to a presentation of old Istanbul and demonstration of Turkish Handicrafts and Grand Bazaar for thousand of shops. Magnificent Topkapı Museum is the big one, the most important museum of Turkey and Balkan Peninsula. First, second, third and fourth courtyards; the Audience Hall, Treasury, gardens, kiosks. Hagia Irene Church. Your lunch will be served en route in a local and authentic restaurant where you will be able to taste various types of local tastes. To see these things with a great guide. Well, you will never be quite the same again.

from$175

Istanbul to Gallipoli, Canakkale and Troy. 2 Day Tour with Hotel (opens in a new tab)

179 2 days

2 days 1 night Gallipoli & Troy Tour offers a full package from Istanbul hotel door to back to Istanbul hotel door including a visit to Gallipoli Battlefields and Troy Ancient Site. You will visit all landing beaches, Lone Pine (Australian Memorial), Chunuk Bair (New Zealand Memorial), 57. Regiment (Turkish Memorial) . You will see intact tunnels and trenches from WW1 and guide will explain the battle from both Turkish and Allied perspective. A visit to Homer's Troy will be included in the next day before you depart for your hotel in Istanbul. You will have a half day free time to explore Canakkale.

from$363

Istanbul Old City: Basilica Cistern - Blue Mosque - Grand Bazaar (opens in a new tab)

127 3 h

Visit the historic ‘old town’ of bustling Istanbul on this tour. Photo opportunities await at Sultanahmet’s notable religious sites including the Underground Basilica Cistern and Blue Mosque. Wander through aromatic spice markets after exploring the Byzantine heritage of the Hippodrome. Witness the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman Empire influences in this part of Turkey's great metropolis. ⦿ Tour the historic reference points of the old town with an English speaking tour guide ⦿ Benefit from a smaller tour group that can be customised to your interests ⦿ Sample Turkish delights in the Grand Bazaar and visit a local carpet workshop ⦿ Enjoy the best scenery of Istanbul from Blue Mosque

from$70.38

Istanbul: Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia & Sultanahmet Tour (opens in a new tab)

721 2 h – 3 h

Begin your journey in the lively Sultanah met district, where you'll meet your expert guide at a convenient starting point. Your first stop is the famed Blue Mosque, renowned for stunning blue tiles. As your guide leads you through its fascinating history, you'll be immersed in the mosque's captivating atmosphere. Pause to admire the panoramic views of modern Istanbul from the mosque's courtyard before meandering through the ancient streets. Discover the Hippodrome, once the vibrant social and political center of the city. Explore the remarkable evolution of this site from a Greek Orthodox cathedral to a mosque following the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople. Be awed by the harmonious blend of mosque and church architecture, featuring grand domes, towering minarets, exquisite mosaics. Continue your journey through the Hagia Sophia, where you'll learn about its ornate Iznik tiles, the iconic Virgin Mary mosaic, and the intriguing tradition of sultans being buried in its courtyard.

from$85.14

Istanbul Old City Tour: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque & Grand Bazaar (opens in a new tab)

403 4 h

Experience the timeless beauty of Istanbul on this expertly guided Old City tour covering the city’s most iconic landmarks. Walk through centuries of Ottoman and Byzantine history as you visit the magnificent Hagia Sophia, the elegant Blue Mosque, the historic Hippodrome, and the vibrant Grand Bazaar. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this tour is perfect for first-time visitors wanting to experience Istanbul’s cultural highlights in a relaxed and informative way. • Visit Istanbul’s top historical landmarks in one day • Explore with a licensed local guide • Learn about Byzantine and Ottoman history • Enjoy free time at the Grand Bazaar • Ideal for first-time visitors • Small-group atmosphere for a more personal experience

from$25

Istanbul Perfume Making Workshop with Bosphorus View (opens in a new tab)

157 2 h

Create your own signature fragrance in Istanbul with expert guidance and a beautiful Bosphorus view. Explore over 50 fragrance ingredients, experiment with different scent combinations, and take home your own 50 ml perfume. This hands-on experience combines the art of perfumery with a personal touch of Turkish hospitality, giving you a unique way to experience Istanbul beyond traditional sightseeing.

from$29

Topkapi Palace Skip-The-Line Entry with Guided Tour (opens in a new tab)

77 2 h

Skip the line and visit one of the most important museums in Turkey. Join a guided tour through the main sections of Topkapı Palace, including the four courtyards, the Audience Hall, the High Court, the Historical Kitchens, and the Treasury. If you book the 90-Min Guided Tour option, Harem access is also included. Guests are required to use a headset during the tour. Please bring your ID card with you for the Topkapı Palace Tour. Your ID card will be collected while you use the headset and returned at the end of the tour. An audio guide is included and available in 25 languages: English, German, Russian, Persian, Arabic, French, Italian, Chinese, Dutch, Spanish, Hindi, Romanian, Ukrainian, Korean, Turkish, Bulgarian, Polish, Swedish, Japanese, Indonesian, Greek, Hungarian, Portuguese, Urdu, and Croatian. Please meet your guide in front of the Fountain of Sultan Ahmed III at least 15 minutes before the tour starts. Your guide will be holding a white flag.

from$68.11

From Istanbul: Gallipoli Private Full-Day Tour (opens in a new tab)

35 15 h

You should join this tour to experience the Gallipoli Front of WW1 and keep the memories of the heroic soldiers who fought and shed their blood in these lands. They are sleeping with Turkish soldiers in the bosom of a friendly country, and they have become the sons of Turkey.

from$443

Istanbul Private Bosphorus Yacht Tour w Swimming or Guide Option (opens in a new tab)

599 2 h

Create unforgettable memories on a private luxury yacht in Istanbul. Cruise between Europe and Asia with stunning Bosphorus views, your favorite drinks, and an exclusive experience. Sail past iconic palaces, waterfront mansions, and famous bridges—perfect for photos and special moments. Enjoy Istanbul from the water with a professional captain and attentive crew, whether for romance, family, or friends. For the Swimming Tour option, guests can choose between Poyrazköy – Beykoz (Black Sea Area) or the Princes’ Islands (Adalar). 6-hour private yacht cruise to the Princes’ Islands (10:00 AM – 4:00 PM) without a guide, with free time for swimming and relaxation. Please bring your own swimwear, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and any personal or children’s swimming equipment. For everyone’s comfort, please follow basic hygiene rules. This activity is not suitable for guests who cannot swim.

from$397

Pamukkale Tour from Istanbul by Flight (opens in a new tab)

5 15 h – 16 h

When it comes to natural wonders, Pamukkale in Turkey stands in a league of its own. This extraordinary destination, also known as the "Cotton Castle," is a surreal masterpiece created by nature itself. Once known as Hierapolis famous for healing thermal/mineral baths and beautiful snow-white petrified waterfalls. In the area, there are 17 hot water springs in which the temperature ranges from 35 to 100 celcius. The panoramic views from the terraces are nothing short of breathtaking. Bring your camera to capture the beauty of Pamukkale from different angles. The juxtaposition of white terraces against the lush green landscape is a photographer's dream.

from$703

Small Group Istanbul Tour: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque & Bazaar (opens in a new tab)

80 3 h

Discover Istanbul's rich Culture and history with our experienced guides. Skip the Museum Ticket Queues with your guide. Visit Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome and Brief Handicraft Presentation next to Grand Bazaar (Optional, guest may opt to explore the bazaar on their own) in a Half Day Tour Why You Should Choose This Tour ✔ Door-to-door service with hotel pick-up and drop-off (Centrally located hotels on the European side; pick-up begins up to 1 hour before tour start) ✔ All entrance tickets included — no separate payments on the day ✔ Small-group experience for a more personal and relaxed tour Enjoy Istanbul without worrying about tickets, transport, or unexpected costs.

from$62.44

Full-Day Private Guided Cultural Tour of Istanbul (opens in a new tab)

344 5 h – 7 h

These private tours would offer you the comfort of unique culture experience. If you want to stay away from crowded groups, to avoid long entrance queues, we invite you to live the best of your Istanbul experience with a private tour.

from$60

Basilica Cistern Fast Track Entry Ticket with Audio Guide (opens in a new tab)

22 1 h 30 min – 2 h

Fast and Easy Access. Visit one of the most famous landmarks with a pre-booked entry ticket and start exploring right away. Your ticket will be sent to you by email 24 hours before your visit — please remember to check your inbox and spam folder. Discover the Basilica Cistern with Skip-the-Line Fast-Track Entry and a Self-Guided Audio Tour. Explore its 336 marble columns, vaulted ceilings, and tranquil pools while uncovering its Byzantine history and significance in Istanbul. Hidden beneath Sultanahmet's bustling streets, the Basilica Cistern offers a serene escape and captivating insights into Istanbul's rich past. Perfect for history lovers, photographers, and curious travelers, this hassle-free, self-paced tour is a must-see for any Istanbul itinerary, combining history, architecture, and mystery. PLEASE NOTE: IT IS NOT POSSIBLE TO SKIP OR BYPASS SECURITY CHECKS AT THE ENTRANCE. DURING THE HIGH SEASON, WAITING TIMES FOR SECURITY MAY TAKE UP TO ONE HOUR.

from$65.26

Skip-The-Line:1, 2 or 3 Days Private Istanbul Guided Tour (opens in a new tab)

69 7 h – 22 h

See the sights of Istanbul that most interest you on a customized 1 -2 or 3 -days tour with a private guide. Opt for a single day and see the whole of the Old City, plus the Grand Bazaar. Extend the tour to include a second day and visit the Spice Bazaar, Dolmabahce Palace, Taksim, and Istiklal Street, plus a Bosphorus cruise.Please note that your guide is happy to alter the itinerary completely to accommodate your personal interests. Day 1: Private istanbul Guided Tour Day:Blue Mosq,Hagia Sophia,Topkapi Palace,Basilica Cistern,Grand Bazar Day 2:Private istanbul Guided Tour : Spice Bazaar, Bosphorus cruise, Dolmabahce Palace, Istiklal Street, and Taksim Day 3:Private istanbul Tour:Galata Tower,Fener Rum Patrikhanesi,Kariye Museum,Pierre Loti Tepesi *Private guide means a more personalized experience *Option to select a 1 - 2 or 3 day private tour by walking or VAN *Explore the local streets on a walking tour of the city *Customize the itinerary according to your schedule.

from$70

Private & Mini Group 7-8 Hours Guided Istanbul Tour / Cruise Port (opens in a new tab)

298 7 h – 8 h

Why Private Tours with Us? Special discounts. You will decide on departure time. Our tour guide will meet you at the port with your name sign, Our professional tour guide and A/C vehicle will be with you from arrival till departure, Our professional guide will be with you in the sites. Our guide will have pre-paid tickets to skip the lines. Fees can be paid to our guide after the tour. You will have flexibilty to spend how much time you want in each site and make small changes on the itinerary, You do not have to wait for other group members. You will have a chance to make stops to have pictues during the tour. Our Private tour rates are more reasonable than cruise shore tours, You will have several alternatives to taste famous Turkish Delicious foods, if you want to have lunch during your trip

from$109

Istanbul to Ephesus Full-Day Private Tour with Domestic Flights (opens in a new tab)

14 h – 15 h

Best way to visit Ephesus from Istanbul. Domestic flights are included. You will visit all highlights without any hassle. Our representative will pick you up from your hotel in Istanbul in the mrning and you will be dropped off back to your hotel in Istanbul in the evening. • Private Tour for your family and friends • You will decide on departure time • Our tour guide will meet you at the Port/Hotel with your name sign, • Our professional tour guide will be with you from arrival till departure, • You will have flexibilty to spend how much time you want in each site and customize the itinerary, • You do not have to wait for other group members. • You may stop to have pictures during your tour.

from$469

Istanbul Cappadocia Pamukkale and Ephesus 7 Day Package (opens in a new tab)

37 7 days

Visit > Istanbul, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, Ancient Ephesus, House of Virgin Mary Explore the UNESCO sites of Turkey with a customized 7 Days Tour from/to Istanbul. Enjoy a Full-Day Guided tour to the heart of history and visit Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Grand Bazaar, Explore Cappadocia's underground cities, fairy chimneys, Visit Ancient Ephesus; An Archeological treasure, The best-preserved classical city in the Eastern Mediterranean and holds the House of the Virgin Mary, Pamukkale; Pools of Heaven on Earth. Learn history about early christians&life of locals from your expert local guide. The tour has two different options: “INCLUDED FLIGHT TICKETS” and “EXCLUDED FLIGHT TICKETS.” You can select your preferred option during the tour purchase process.

from$970

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