Private tour in Istanbul Ayse S

Istanbul Highlights: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Basilica Cistern Walking Tour

5.0

(1) review

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Hours icon 6 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 6 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later

Ayse S.

5.0

Guide rating

1

Reviews

Tours delivered

9 hrs

Avg. response time

Hello, I’m Ayse — a licensed professional tour guide and podcaster based in Turkey, with a deep passion for storytelling, culture, and meaningful travel experiences. Istanbul is my hometown, I was borned and raised in the historical peninsula. As a tour guide İstanbul became my area of expertise for many years. For me, guiding is not just about sharing dates and historical facts. It’s about bringing places to life. When we walk through a city together, I want you to feel its soul — to follow the traces in an ordinary looking street or building; symbols, architecture, narratives and find out how it keeps a secret or story from history I specialize in cultural and historical tours, blending architecture, art, faith, and human stories into one immersive experience. Whether we are standing in front of an ancient monument, walking through a hidden street, or watching the sunset over a timeless skyline, I aim to create moments you will truly remember. My guests often tell me they appreciate my warm approach, clear storytelling, and the balance between knowledge and emotion. If you are looking for more than just a tour — if you are looking for connection, insight, and a guide who genuinely loves what she does — I would be happy to explore together. Let’s go deep into Istanbul and and have a time travel around the streets towards two extra ordinary Empires, come and join me!

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Ayse S.

Overview of your Istanbul tour

Would you like to experience the essential treasures of Istanbul in one thoughtfully designed day? This full-day private tour brings together the architectural masterpieces and imperial landmarks of the city, while revealing the powerful narrative that connects them. We begin at the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque), the only imperial Ottoman mosque crowned with six minarets. Just steps away lies the ancient Hippodrome, once the ceremonial and political heart of Constantinople. Here, we explore the surviving monuments. We then continue to Topkapı Palace, the imperial residence of the Ottoman sultans for nearly four centuries. After a refined lunch break, our journey moves to the magnificent Hagia Sophia, built in 537 as a church and later transformed into a mosque, one of the most extraordinary monuments ever constructed — a true symbol of Istanbul’s dual imperial identity. We conclude the day at the the atmospheric Basilica Cistern, the largest surviving Byzantine cistern from the 6th century.

Your Istanbul tour itinerary

Suggested Itinerary: • Blue Mosque • Hippodrome • Topkapı Palace Lunch Break • Hagia Sophia • Basilica Cistern End at Basilica Cistern. NB: ticket for attractions are not included. You can enter with Museumpass Istanbul (doesn't include the Basilica Cistern) if you purchase it or purchase on spot during the tour.

Want to customize this tour?

Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.

Transport details
Type: Walking

Only walking

What's included
Private Guide
What's not included
Tickets
Food Drinks Snacks
Other: Personal Expenses
Meeting location

At Meydanı Caddesi, İstanbul, İstanbul, 34122, Türkiye

We can meet at the German Fountain

  • You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
Architecture
History
Religious Sites
Art And Culture
Tour reference number
1452804
Languages
Turkish
English
Activity level
Moderate

Traveller reviews

FAQs

Who is this private tour in Istanbul best suited for?

This private tour in Istanbul is perfect for travellers who want to explore the city's essential treasures in a single day. It's ideal for those interested in architectural masterpieces and imperial landmarks, as well as anyone looking to connect with a local guide like Ayse S. for deeper insights into Istanbul's rich history.

What should I bring or wear?

Can this private tour in Istanbul be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?

How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?

Where does the tour start and end?

How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?

What languages is this tour offered in?

What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?

Is this a private tour? What is the maximum group size and the starting price?

AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide

-
Hours icon 6 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 6 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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