At the crossroads of Europe and Asia lies Istanbul, an ancient city along the Bosphorus strait. Byzantine churches and Ottoman mosques are joined by cosmopolitan neighborhoods lined with arty cafes, galleries and markets. The call to prayer reverberates from a tapering minaret every now and then, while live music venues play exotic tunes that could have only been created in such an east-meets-west setting.

[[02-tours/Istanbul_Essentials_01.jpg]]

Going on a walking tour of the city&rsquo;s Historical Peninsula is a must for any visitor here. Our guide will pick you up at your place (hotel) and time preference* &ndash; although please take note of each sight&rsquo;s closing time as you might not be able to see all with a late departure!

[[02-tours/Istanbul_Essentials_02.jpg]]

With this private tour, you can choose which of the following landmarks/attractions you want to hit, and your guide will do his / her best to tailor the itinerary to make it as seamless and enjoyable as possible:

Hagia Sophia: Istanbul&rsquo;s Unesco-designated World Heritage zone &ndash; the Sultanahmet &ndash; is graced by legendary monuments, none more famous than the &ldquo;Aya Sofya&rdquo;. This architectural masterpiece was commissioned by Byzantine emperor Justinian as a church in 537. In 1453, it was converted into a mosque, and finally declared a museum by Atat&uuml;rk in 1935.

[[02-tours/Istanbul_Essentials_03.jpg]]

Hippodrome: A rectangular arena that served as a venue for Byzantine Emperors&rsquo; chariot races.

[[02-tours/Istanbul_Essentials_04.jpg]]

Blue Mosque: The city&rsquo;s most photogenic landmark was built by Sultan Ahmet I in the 1600s. Its cascade of domes and minarets are unmistakable features of any Istanbul postcard.

[[02-tours/Istanbul_Essentials_05.jpg]]

Basilica Cistern: Istanbul&rsquo;s largest surviving Byzantine cistern, this subterranean structure was built in 532. Coming here is a great way to escape the heat in the summer, where you can delve underground caverns held up by 336 columns.

[[02-tours/Istanbul_Essentials_06.jpg]]

Grand Bazaar: One of the world&rsquo;s oldest and best-loved markets, this labyrinthine bazaar has been doing business from its colorful hans since its construction in 1461. [Important note: We at TripGuru do not include shopping stops unless you express interest in visiting traditional workshops of handmade carpets, tiles, jewelry, etc. Please indicate under &ldquo;special requirements&rdquo; at checkout.] Other items you can shop include bathwares, textiles, and of course &ndash;&nbsp;food!

[[02-tours/Istanbul_Essentials_07.jpg]]

Topkapı Palace: Site of the Ottoman Empire&rsquo;s Imperial Court, bearing witness to indulgent sultans, alluring courtiers, enchanting concubines and conniving eunuchs. Think opulent pavilions, a sprawling harem and the bejeweled Treasury!

[[02-tours/Istanbul_Essentials_08.jpg]]

Turkey

Includes: Licensed guide, sightseeing tour of at least 6 attractions.

Istanbul Classics City Walking Private Tour – Full Day

Istanbul Essentials City Walking Private Tour – Full Day  - Book Now | TRIP GURU