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

Discover Istanbul in a Day: An Honest Look at the Full Day Old City & Asian Side Tour

If you’ve ever wished to see Istanbul’s main attractions without the hassle of planning every detail, this Full Day Istanbul Old City & Asian Side Tour might be worth considering. It promises to pack in the highlights—think Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and a panoramic view from Camlica Hill—all in around 7 hours.

What we really appreciate about this experience are the organized itinerary that hits all the major sights and the inclusion of lunch and museum tickets, which makes it a pretty convenient package. Plus, the hotel pickup and air-conditioned transport mean you can relax and enjoy the ride without worrying about logistics.

On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves quite a bit of walking—some reviews point out this could be tiring, especially if you’re not used to hours of exploring on foot. If you have mobility concerns or prefer a more relaxed pace, it’s worth considering.

This tour is well-suited for travelers who want a thorough overview of Istanbul’s most iconic sites in a single day, especially if you’re short on time but still want a taste of the city’s diverse neighborhoods.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering both the Ottoman and Byzantine monuments on the European side and key sights on the Asian side.
• Included amenities like lunch, museum tickets, and hotel pickup add value and convenience.
• Knowledgeable guides ensure you get meaningful insights into the sites visited.
• Comfortable transport, with air-conditioning and a small group (max 18), helps keep the experience relaxed.
• Walking is significant—be prepared for several hours on your feet, which may not suit everyone.
• Good value for the price, considering the number of sites seen and included extras.

A Deep Dive Into the Tour: What to Expect

Starting at Hagia Sophia

Your day kicks off with a pickup from your hotel, usually around 8:30am. From there, you’ll head straight to the Hagia Sophia, often called one of the Eight Wonders of the World. It’s a building that’s survived centuries and reflects both Byzantine and Ottoman influences. Expect around 45 minutes here, with tickets included—so no fuss about buying entry separately.

The guide will share stories about the site’s significance, architecture, and transformations over time. It’s a highlight that sets the tone for the rest of your day.

Visiting the Blue Mosque

Next, you’ll see the Blue Mosque—famous for its stunning Iznik tiles. It’s the only imperial mosque that was originally built with six minarets, making it pretty unique. However, note that on Fridays, access is limited to the exterior due to prayer times, so you might only see its beauty from outside that day. Otherwise, you’ll have around 30 minutes for a quick look inside or just to admire the architecture from the outside if needed.

The Hippodrome and Ancient Monuments

From there, the group heads to Hippodrome Square, the heart of old Byzantium. It’s a lively spot with notable features like the Egyptian Obelisk and Serpent Column. It’s a short stop but packed with history, perfect for some quick photos and soaking in the atmosphere.

Exploring the Grand Bazaar

Afterward, the tour includes a brief visit to the Grand Bazaar. There’s a chance to attend a handicrafts presentation and listen to a short lecture, which adds context to your shopping experience. However, if you prefer to explore independently, you can skip it and enjoy browsing the market stalls on your own. Keep in mind, the bazaar is closed on Sundays, so the schedule may vary.

Lunch with a View

The tour then moves on to a 3-course lunch, typically lasting about 75 minutes, giving you time to relax and recharge. The included meal offers vegetarian options and beverage purchases are on your own. It’s a decent sit-down experience, offering local flavors and a chance to reflect on the morning’s sightseeing.

Heading to Camlica Hill & Palace

Post-lunch, you’ll cross the Bosphorus Bridge—an engineering feat that links the European and Asian sides—and head towards Camlica Hill, the highest point in Istanbul. The panoramic views here are stunning, giving you a sweeping look at the city, the Bosphorus, and the Prince Islands. It’s a photo-worthy moment and a peaceful spot amid the busy day.

Then, visit the Camlica Mosque, the largest mosque in Turkey, opened in 2019. It’s impressive with its size and modern design, providing a different perspective on Istanbul’s architectural landscape.

Beylerbeyi Palace

The final stop is Beylerbeyi Palace, once the summer residence of Ottoman Sultans. The architecture combines Eastern, Turkish, and Western motifs, and the preserved interiors give a real sense of opulence. It’s a fitting end to a day of exploring, with around 75 minutes here to explore and take photos before heading back to your hotel.

How It All Comes Together

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Istanbul’s diversity—from ancient monuments and bustling markets to breathtaking views and elegant palaces. The inclusion of tickets, lunch, and transportation means you won’t be scrambling for details or worrying about extra costs, which many travelers appreciate.

Most folks seem to agree that guides are knowledgeable and keep the group moving efficiently. One reviewer even said, “Ali was extremely knowledgeable and answered all our questions,” highlighting the importance of a good guide when visiting so many different sites.

However, some mention that the amount of walking can be exhausting—one person noted, “I wouldn’t have booked it if I knew how much walking there was.” It’s definitely a tour for those comfortable with several hours on their feet, especially since the sites are spread out over the city.

Pricing at around $113 per person is quite reasonable given the breadth of sights and inclusions. It’s a good value for travelers who want to maximize their time and see the highlights without worrying about logistics.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a history enthusiast, this tour delivers a solid overview of Istanbul’s architectural and cultural treasures. It’s especially good for travelers with limited time, wanting to see both sides of the city without the hassle of separate bookings.

If you’re traveling with a group that appreciates guided insights, or if you like having logistics handled, this full-day experience offers convenience and depth. Just remember, it’s a fairly active day—so if you prefer a more leisurely pace or have mobility concerns, you might want to adjust expectations.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour balances a lot of sights with a decent price point, making it a strong choice for those eager to see Istanbul’s highlights efficiently. The included tickets, lunch, and transport make it a straightforward option, especially for first-time visitors looking for a guided overview.

The guides are clearly a highlight, with their knowledge and ability to move groups smoothly through crowded spots. The panoramic views from Camlica Hill and the beautiful interiors of Beylerbeyi Palace are memorable moments that add real value to the experience.

While the walking can be quite demanding, most travelers seem satisfied with the effort, especially given the comprehensive coverage of Istanbul’s major sites in one day. It’s a great pick for those who want an active, informative, and well-organized introduction to this mesmerizing city.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from centrally located hotels on the European side, making it easy to start your day without logistical worries.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 7 hours, from pickup to drop-off.

Are tickets to the major sites included?
Yes, tickets for Hagia Sophia, and the transport and site entry fees are all covered in the price.

What should I wear for the mosque visits?
You’ll need to cover shoulders and knees. If your attire doesn’t meet these standards, you can purchase single-use coverings at the sites.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically advertised as family-friendly, the tour involves significant walking and site visits that might be tiring for young children or those with mobility difficulties.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a three-course meal is included, with vegetarian options available. Drinks are not included and are payable separately.

Can I skip the Grand Bazaar?
Yes, if you prefer, you can skip the brief market visit and explore on your own afterward.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is capped at 18, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers plan about 27 days ahead, so it’s good to secure your spot early to avoid disappointment.

If you’re looking to tick off Istanbul’s biggest sights in a day with the convenience of guided commentary and included extras, this tour could be a good fit. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and brace for a busy, active day of sightseeing.