Full Day Istanbul Old City & Asian Side Tour incl Lunch & Tickets

Experience Istanbul in a Day: A Comprehensive Review of the Full Day Old City & Asian Side Tour

Istanbul is a city unlike any other, bridging two continents and offering an incredible mix of history, culture, and vibrant street life. This full-day guided tour promises to give visitors a broad yet detailed look at the city’s most iconic sights, from ancient Byzantine marvels to panoramic views from Camlica Hill. With a well-organized itinerary, included meals, and expert guiding, it sounds like a convenient way to tick off the essentials—all in about seven hours.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its seamless combination of key historical landmarks and breathtaking vistas, making it perfect for those short on time but eager to get a taste of Istanbul. The inclusion of museum tickets and lunch adds great value, avoiding the hassle of planning on the go. However, potential travelers should consider the amount of walking involved, which some reviews highlight as a bit tiring, especially for those with limited mobility. This tour seems best suited for travelers who enjoy a structured schedule and are ready for a full day of exploration.

Whether you’re a history buff, a first-time visitor, or someone simply looking to see the main sights without the stress of navigating on your own, this experience offers a practical and insightful overview of Istanbul’s highlights. Ahead, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of what to expect, why it works, and some honest tips to help you make the most of your day.

Key Points

• Comprehensive coverage of both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul in one day.
• Expert guided experience with knowledgeable guides who answer questions and provide context.
• Inclusion of tickets and lunch, adding convenience and value.
• Stunning panoramic views from Camlica Hill and Beylerbeyi Palace.
• Moderate group size (up to 18 travelers), ensuring a more personal experience.
• Focus on historical and cultural highlights, from Hagia Sophia to the Grand Bazaar.

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting with Istanbul’s Historic Heart: Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque

The tour kicks off early at 8:30 am with pickup from your hotel, setting a tone for a well-organized day. The first stop is the Hagia Sophia, a monument that embodies the architectural innovation and religious history of Istanbul. Recognized as one of the Eight Wonders of the World, it’s an awe-inspiring site that has served as a church, mosque, and now a museum. You’ll spend about 45 minutes here, marveling at its grand dome, intricate mosaics, and centuries of history.

Next, the Blue Mosque takes the stage. Known for its stunning interior decorated with Iznik blue tiles, this mosque is both a place of worship and a historic symbol. Visitors should note that on Fridays, the mosque is reserved for prayer, so instead of entering, you’ll view it from the outside—something worth keeping in mind when planning your visit.

The Hippodrome and the Bazaar: A Glimpse into Byzantium and Modern Commerce

A short walk brings you to the Hippodrome Square, once the bustling sporting and social hub of Byzantium. Here, the Egyptian Obelisk and Serpent Column stand as silent witnesses to the city’s ancient past. With just 15 minutes allocated, you’ll get a quick snapshot of its significance, ideal for those interested in Byzantium’s legacy.

Moving on, a brief stop next to the Grand Bazaar offers an optional presentation about Turkish handicrafts—an opportunity to learn a little about the vibrant local craft scene. You’re free to explore the bazaar on your own afterward, soaking up its lively atmosphere, colorful stalls, and myriad of shops. The tour notes that the bazaar is closed on Sundays, so plan accordingly.

Lunch and the Asian Side: A Taste of Local Flavors and Panoramic Views

After a busy morning, you’ll enjoy a 3-course lunch that caters to different dietary preferences, with vegetarian options available. It’s a relaxed hour that allows you to recharge before crossing the Bosphorus.

Post-lunch, the journey continues across the Bosphorus Bridge—an engineering feat connecting Europe and Asia. The highlight here is Camlica Hill, the highest point in Istanbul, offering sweeping views of the city, Prince Islands, and the Bosphorus itself. It’s an ideal spot for photos and a chance to appreciate Istanbul’s unique geography.

Next, the impressive CamlIca Mosque opens in 2019 as the largest mosque in Turkey. Its modern yet grand design provides a different experience compared to the historic sites visited earlier. Allow about 30 minutes to admire its architecture and serene interior.

Ottoman Opulence at Beylerbeyi Palace

The tour concludes at the Beylerbeyi Palace, a summer residence for Ottoman sultans. Its architecture is a blend of Eastern, Turkish, and Western motifs, with well-preserved furnishings and gorgeous gardens. Spending about 1 hour here, you’ll get a feel for Ottoman elegance and royal lifestyle.

Final Drop-off and Reflection

After a full day of sightseeing, the tour wraps up with transportation back to your hotel. With air-conditioned vehicles and a small group size, the experience remains comfortable even after a day of walking.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

The combination of guided expertise, included tickets, and meals makes this tour a practical choice for many travelers. The expert guides are praised for their knowledge and ability to navigate crowds smoothly, making the experience more enriching and less stressful. The inclusion of museums and palace entries means you’re not paying extra at each stop, which can add up quickly in Istanbul.

At $112.75 per person, this tour is reasonably priced considering the breadth of sites covered, the convenience of transportation, and the professionally curated itinerary. For first-timers or visitors with limited time, it offers an excellent overview without feeling overwhelmed.

The most significant consideration is the walking involved—some reviews mention it as quite extensive, which could be tiring for those with mobility issues or traveling with young children. The tour description clearly states the walking amount, so if you’re concerned about stamina, plan for comfortable shoes and breaks.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to travelers who want a comprehensive, guided introduction to Istanbul’s top attractions without the hassle of planning each visit. It’s ideal for first-time visitors eager to see the highlights, history buffs interested in Ottoman and Byzantine landmarks, and those who appreciate panoramic views and cultural insights.

If you prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility concerns, you might want to consider how much walking is involved. However, for those prepared for a full day of sightseeing, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, culture, and scenic beauty.

Final Thoughts

This full-day Istanbul tour offers an excellent way to see the city’s most renowned sights while enjoying the comfort and convenience of guided visits and included meals. The professional guiding, combined with stunning viewpoints and rich historical sites, makes it a memorable experience for any visitor.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want a structured day that covers both the Old City and the Asian side, maximizing their time in this extraordinary city. While some may find the walking demanding, the overall value and variety of sights make it a worthwhile option for many.

If you’re after a balanced, insightful, and efficient way to explore Istanbul, this tour ticks the boxes—and with a top rating of 5.0, it’s clearly a popular choice among past travelers.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pick-up from centrally located hotels on the European Side, making it convenient and hassle-free.

Are tickets to the attractions included?
Absolutely, all museum and palace tickets are covered in the tour price, saving you time and money.

What should I wear to the mosques?
Both men and women need to cover shoulders and knees. If your attire doesn’t meet these requirements, single-use cover-ups are available at the sites.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, from 8:30 am pickup to hotel drop-off.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While most travelers can participate, some reviews mention the walking can be tiring, so it may not be ideal for those with mobility difficulties or very young children.

What is included in the price?
Guided tour, all entrance tickets, lunch, air-conditioned transportation, and taxes are included.

Can I skip some stops?
The itinerary is fixed, but you are free to explore certain sites independently, like the Grand Bazaar if you wish.

Is this tour available on Sundays?
The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays, so the itinerary might be adjusted accordingly.

This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from the Full Day Istanbul Old City & Asian Side Tour. It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a comprehensive, guided, and culturally rich experience of Istanbul, with a good balance of history, scenic views, and local flavor.