Why choose this Istanbul tour ?
If you are going to visit Istanbul for the first time, this cultural and culinary walking tour in Istanbul will provide you a detailed information of what I can call “Essentials of Istanbul Experience”. We will visit some of the most famous landmarks of Istanbul, understand their historical, architectural and social importance. We will also try some local foods, including (everyone’s favourite) Turkish desserts. I will be explaining my guests some of the less-known and little-noticed details for each site.
The experience can be tailored with the consensus of all participants.
Make the most of your Istanbul adventure
What makes Essentials of Istanbul For First Timers a unique experience ?
Once part of Topkapi Palace, this relaxing and beautiful public park is more than a recreational area. This area played a very crucuial role in the history of Istanbul, but also of Turkish Republic. In April, it is full of tulips. In May, roses replace tulips. Every seasons, it looks amazing in its own way.
The first-of-its-kind, Sultan Ahmed Fountain in front of Topkapi Palace is an elegant monument in itself. Surrounded by Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia, this Fountain rarely gets the attention that it deserves. We will examine its Tulip Period ornaments with a special attention and understand its impact to the city.
Yerebatan (Basilica) Cistern is a 6th-century Roman water structure and the largest of its kind in Istanbul. With endless rows of columns, its has a unique appearance. It is considered as a top sight in Istanbul. There may be a 30-minute waiting time on busy days.
This 17th-century masterpiece of Ottoman architecture is one of the top sights in Istanbul. Its interior provides one of the most glamorous examples of Ottoman mosques. It is decorated with thousands of tiles and extensive penwork. Starting from its outer courtyard to the inner corners, this mosque provides several elegant examples of the Turkish artistic taste of the 17th century.
Sultanahmet Square is the ancient Roman Hippodrome and contains some of Istanbul’s oldest and most important sights. The Egyptian Obelisk, Serpent Column, Masonary Obelisk and German Fountain are among those sights. Each of them has its own fascinating stories and not-easy-to-notice aspects, which I will happily share during our visit.
The Hagia Sophia Mosque in Istanbul is one of the masterpieces of world architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 6th-century building contains artistic items and architectural features from the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman civilizations. It is a must-see in Istanbul, but for that reason, there are long queues which may result with 1-2 hours of waiting time. (If my guests prefer to see the building only from outside in order not to wait in a long queue, an alternative destination can be added)
As a key city of the Silk Road and the Spice Road, Istanbul boasts the presence of some of the best medieval bazaars in the world. The Grand Bazaar and the Egyptian (Spice) Bazaar are still some of most lively commercial buildings in Istanbul. Depending on the personal preference of my guests, we can visit one or both of them. Grand Bazaar is closed on sunday.
Although Blue Mosque is the most visited Ottoman mosque in Istanbul because of its location at the heart of Old City, several other mosques are worth visiting because of their historical significance and architectural aspects. Beyazit Mosque in particular contains very interesting features that are unique in Istanbul. We will take a look at its colorful decoration dated 1505.
Tour Description & Additional Info:
- 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
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Important Note: The guide will only provide “tourist guidance service” in accordance with the legal guidelines in Türkiye.
Options To Choose for Your Trip:
Essentials of Istanbul For First Timers Inclusions:
Included with Your Ticket
- Professional Licenced Tourist Guidance Service
Not Included
- Entry Tickets (Approximately 40 Euros)
- Foods and Drinks
- Transportation
- Tips
Trending Istanbul Nearby Tours Likely To Sell Out
Special Instructions:
- This Tour is Provided by Unsal Koslu.
- Tour Timezone & Starts at Europe/Istanbul.
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted.
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- This Tour is Rated 5 Stars based on 7 valid reviews on TRIPADVISOR.
- Minimum 1 Travelers is required to book.
- Maximum 5 Travelers is accepted for booking.
