Starting price
From $240
Istanbul private guide itinerary
Three day-by-day Istanbul routes for a private guide
A flexible private program that starts at your hotel or cruise port and can be adjusted to your pace. Each day is planned for up to 7 hours and highlights a different side of Istanbul.
Duration
Up to 7 hours per day
Starting point
Hotel or cruise port
Format
Private licensed guide
Recommended day-by-day route
Day 1
Old City classics
Start in Sultanahmet with Istanbul's essential Byzantine and Ottoman landmarks in one compact area.
- Hagia Sophia
- Hippodrome
- Basilica Cistern
- Blue Mosque
- Grand Bazaar
- Topkapi Palace
This is the strongest day for first-time visitors and can be reordered around opening times.
Day 2
Spice Market and Bosphorus
Start at the Spice Bazaar and continue with a Bosphorus cruise that shows both sides of the city, waterfront mansions, bridge views, and a modern finish in Taksim.
- Spice Bazaar
- Bosphorus cruise
- Dolmabahce Palace
- Taksim Square
A private van is recommended if you want this day to feel more relaxed.
Day 3
Golden Horn and historic neighborhoods
Follow the Golden Horn trail through Suleymaniye, Fener's St. George Church, Balat, and the hilltop views from Pierre Loti.
- Suleymaniye Mosque
- Church of St. George
- Fener District
- Balat District
- St. Stephen Church
- Pierre Loti Hill and cable car
A private van is recommended for easier movement between stops.
Included
- Officially licensed private guide
- Private tour arrangement
Not included
- Entrance tickets
- Lunch and drinks
- Transportation unless booked
- Guide gratuities
Important planning notes
- Topkapi Palace and Hagia Irene are closed on Tuesdays.
- Hagia Sophia has Friday access restrictions.
- Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.
- Dolmabahce Palace is closed on Mondays and does not allow live guiding inside.
- Blue Mosque visits on Fridays are possible after 2:00 PM.
- Women should cover their heads and men should cover their knees for mosque visits.
- Children aged 7 and under are free with passport copies for museum verification.