Explore the iconic landmarks of Istanbul on a small group tour that promises an immersive morning experience. Starting at 8:30 am from the Sultanahmet Tamara Restaurant, this 4-5 hour tour takes you through the magnificent Hagia Sophia, the stunning Blue Mosque, and the historic Hippodrome, capped off with a visit to the renowned Grand Bazaar. With a professional guide leading the way, you’ll uncover the rich history and vibrant culture of this captivating city. Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off ensure a seamless journey, leaving you to fully learn about the wonders that await.
Good To Know
- Small group tour of Istanbul’s top landmarks, including Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, and Grand Bazaar, offered by Plan Tours.
- Tour duration is 4-5 hours, starting at 8:30 am, with hotel pickup and drop-off services.
- Admission tickets for Hagia Sophia and Hippodrome are included, while Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar have free admission.
- Tour guide provides insightful commentary on the history and culture of the visited sites.
- Potential challenges include long waiting times, limited exploration time, and language exclusivity issues for non-English speakers.
Tour Overview
A small group tour of Istanbul’s highlights is offered by Plan Tours, a tour provider based in Istanbul, Turkey.
The tour has an overall rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars from 5 reviews and accommodates a maximum of 10 travelers. Priced from €40.00 per person, the tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
With a start time of 8:30 am, the tour departs from Sultanahmet Tamara Restaurant and covers key stops such as Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, and Grand Bazaar.
The tour includes a professional guide, admission tickets, and hotel pickup and drop-off. Accessibility is catered for, but a moderate fitness level is required.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Istanbul
Itinerary and Locations
The small group tour begins at 08:30 am, with the meeting point located at the Sultanahmet Tamara Restaurant in the Fatih district of Istanbul.
The tour then visits several key highlights, including:
- Hagia Sophia for 1 hour and 30 minutes, with admission ticket included
- Blue Mosque for 30 minutes, with free admission
- Hippodrome for 30 minutes, with admission ticket included
- Grand Bazaar for 1 hour, with free admission (closed on Sundays)
The tour concludes back at the meeting point in the Sultanahmet district.
Guests should note potential long waiting times for entry to the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, as well as limited access on Friday mornings due to noon prayer.
Inclusions and Services
The tour includes a professional guide (who may be multilingual), hotel pickup (for selected hotels only), hotel drop-off, and all applicable fees and taxes.
Admission tickets to the Hagia Sophia Museum are also included. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, though a moderate level of physical fitness is required.
Visitors should note that the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays, and an authentic shop may be visited instead.
Plus, access to the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia may be limited on Friday mornings due to noon prayers.
Children must be accompanied by an adult throughout the tour.
Important Notes
Hagia Sophia is closed on Mondays, in which case the tour substitutes a visit to the Underground Cistern.
Plus, the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays, and visitors will instead explore an authentic shop.
On Friday mornings, access to the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia may be limited due to noon prayer. Guests should expect potential long waiting times for entry to these popular sites.
Finally, children must be accompanied by an adult throughout the tour.
- Hagia Sophia closed on Mondays; replaced with Underground Cistern
- Grand Bazaar closed on Sundays; visit replaced with authentic shop
- Limited access to Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia on Friday mornings
- Potential long waiting times for entry to key sites
Positive Feedback
Guests have praised the tour guide, describing them as knowledgeable and professional, with an excellent command of English.
The guide’s expertise and ability to provide insightful commentary on the city’s rich history and cultural significance have been a highlight for many participants.
Visitors appreciate the guide’s efforts to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, effortlessly navigating the itinerary and managing the group with ease.
This attentive and personable approach has contributed to the overall positive impression of the tour, making it a memorable experience for those seeking an immersive introduction to Istanbul’s iconic landmarks.
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Negative Feedback
Some visitors expressed disappointment regarding the limited exploration of the Hagia Sophia, feeling they didn’t have enough time to fully appreciate the magnificence of this iconic landmark.
Plus, there were concerns about:
- The lack of thorough coverage of the site due to time constraints
- Disappointment over the replacement of the Grand Bazaar visit with an authentic shop
- Issues with the exclusivity of the guide’s language, making it difficult for non-English speakers to fully engage
- Frustration with the potential long waiting times for entry to both the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia
Tour Provider
Plan Tours, the provider of this small group tour, is a reputable tour operator based in Istanbul, Turkey.
They offer a carefully curated selection of guided experiences to help visitors discover the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.
The company’s team of knowledgeable local guides is committed to delivering personalized and engaging tours that cater to the needs of small groups.
By limiting group sizes to a maximum of 10 travelers, Plan Tours ensures a more intimate and immersive experience.
With a focus on customer satisfaction, the company’s flexible cancellation policy and inclusion of key admission tickets demonstrate their dedication to providing a seamless and hassle-free tour experience.
Tour Details
The small group tour kicks off at 8:30 am, with travelers meeting at the Sultanahmet Tamara Restaurant in the Fatih district of Istanbul.
Over the next 4-5 hours, the group will explore several iconic landmarks:
- Hagia Sophia: Admission ticket included, visitors spend 1.5 hours exploring this architectural marvel.
- Blue Mosque: 30-minute visit, no admission fee required.
- Hippodrome: 30 minutes, with admission ticket included.
- Grand Bazaar: 1-hour visit, admission is free (closed on Sundays).
The tour then wraps up back at the meeting point, with hotel pickup and drop-off services provided.
A professional guide accompanies the group throughout the experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Modify the Tour Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?
You can customize the tour itinerary to suit your preferences, but it’s recommended to discuss this with the tour provider in advance. They may be able to accommodate some modifications, subject to availability and group dynamics.
Is There a Dress Code for the Sites We Will Visit?
Modest dress is required for the sites visited on this tour. Visitors should cover their shoulders and avoid shorts or short skirts. This dress code ensures respectful entry to the historical and religious landmarks.
Are the Entrance Tickets to the Sites Included in the Tour Price?
Yes, the entrance tickets to the major sites like Hagia Sophia and Hippodrome are included in the tour price. This ensures a hassle-free experience for visitors to explore Istanbul’s top highlights.
Can I Take Photographs Inside the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque?
Photography is generally permitted in the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, though visitors should be respectful of the religious nature of these sites. It’s best to check with the tour guide for any specific restrictions before taking photos.
Are Any Refreshments or Meals Provided During the Tour?
The tour doesn’t include any refreshments or meals. Travelers will need to bring their own snacks and drinks. There are opportunities to purchase food during the free time at the Grand Bazaar.
Small Group Tour of Istanbul Highlights Morning
The Sum Up
This small group tour of Istanbul’s highlights offers an immersive morning experience, showcasing the city’s iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Hippodrome. With a professional guide, convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, and a stop at the Grand Bazaar, it’s an efficient way to discover Istanbul’s rich history and culture in just 4-5 hours.
