Free Tour of Istanbul: Essential History & Inner Visit to a Mosque
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Discover the old part of Istanbul accompanied by an enthusiastic official guide. Get a chance to step into the Blue Mosque, the Hagia Sofia and pass along the Grand Bazaaar, the German Fountain as well as many more.
During our free tour, you will get to know the essential places to visit in Istanbul. Everything you can not miss in the city, its history, and evolution, and lots of fun facts, and also local recommendations.
With our guides, you will discover in the most entertaining way, İstanbul, its history, and culture, as well as some curiosities and facts. With the most entertaining and passionate local guides, you’ll get to know: On our Classic Istanbul Free Tour, you will see:
⦁ German Fountain ⦁ Blue Mosque (We will try to go inside depending on the line as sometimes it takes 1 hour, none will enjoy on the tour waiting at the line instead of waiting, we would like to show more sites and show another mosque) ⦁ Hippodrome ⦁ Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern from outside (require an entry fee, and we cover from outside) ⦁ Nuru Osmaniye Mosque ⦁ Grand Bazaar ⦁ Sampling Turkish Delights with fruit tea (Optional, you can skip if you like)
This tour is about 2.5 hours.
Note: Our tour guides are licensed; they studied for 4 years to be a guide, and this is their full-time job. They will give you plenty of clues that you can save time and money.
Meeting point
Pudding Shop Lale Restaurant
Before you go
- Length
- About 2h 30min
- Languages
- English
- Usual start times
- 10:00, 14:30 (Istanbul time)
- Coming up
- 120 departures in 3 months, 9 this week
Questions about this tour
How much does this tour cost?
Nothing up front. You book for free and tip your guide at the end. Many travellers tip around €5 to €15 per person, depending on the length and quality of the tour.
How long does it take?
About 2h 30min.
Where does it start?
The meeting point is Pudding Shop Lale Restaurant. The map on this page shows the exact spot.
What languages is it in?
Upcoming departures are in English. Pick your language in the calendar to see only those.
When does it run?
120 departures are listed in the next three months, 9 of them in the next 7 days, usually at 10:00 and 14:30. Times are local to Istanbul.
Do I need to book?
Booking is a good idea: groups are limited and popular times fill up. Create a free Tripsora account, pick a day and time, and press Book to finish with the tour provider.
Is it accessible?
The tour provider has added accessibility information for this tour. Check the details with them when you book, and tell your guide about any needs on the day.
Can I bring my dog?
The tour provider lists this tour as pet friendly.
Other free tours in Istanbul
- Free Tour of Istanbul 4.7 ★ (2,899) · 2h 30min
- Must-See Istanbul: Old City & Daily Life 5.0 ★ (810) · 3h
- Old City Tour: From Constantinople to Istanbul 4.9 ★ (275) · 2h 15min
- Istanbul Essentials in Two Hours! 4.9 ★ (182) · 2h
- Essential Free Tour: Firs Day in Istanbul 4.7 ★ (240) · 3h
Accessibility information availablePet friendly
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