12-Hour Chauffeured Istanbul Tour
Comprehensive cultural and historical journey to explore the enchanting city that spans two continents.
Tour Overview
Istanbul is a unique city connecting Asia and Europe, having served as the capital of three great empires that shaped world history. With its Byzantine, Roman, and Ottoman monuments, vibrant bazaars, stunning Bosphorus views, and rich cuisine, it is one of the world’s most captivating cities.
On this comprehensive 12‑hour tour, you will comfortably explore Istanbul’s historic and cultural landmarks with a private driver. You’ll visit world‑famous sites on the Historic Peninsula—Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque), Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar—as well as local highlights like Pierre Loti Hill, the colorful Balat & Fener district, and Ortaköy on the Bosphorus. You’ll enjoy a delicious lunch break and have the chance to discover both the Asian and European sides of Istanbul in your private vehicle.
Tour Itinerary
Hotel Pickup
Pickup from your accommodation in our luxury vehicle with a briefing on preparations and the day’s program.
Sultanahmet District
Visit Hagia Sophia and the Sultanahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque). Explore these magnificent Byzantine and Ottoman‑era structures.
Topkapi Palace
Explore the magnificent palace and its Treasury, which served as the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire for 400 years.
Lunch
Enjoy a lunch break at a restaurant overlooking the Bosphorus and savor selected Turkish specialties.
Grand Bazaar & Spice Bazaar
Shop and experience the atmosphere in two of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets.
Pierre Loti Hill
Enjoy panoramic views of the Golden Horn and taste traditional Turkish coffee at historic Pierre Loti Hill.
Balat & Fener District
Walk through Istanbul’s most colorful and photogenic neighborhoods, exploring historic houses and visiting St. Stephen Bulgarian Church.
Dolmabahçe Palace (Exterior)
See and photograph the exterior of Dolmabahçe Palace, the last palace of the Ottoman Empire.
Ortaköy & Bosphorus Drive
Taste the famous kumpir in Ortaköy and enjoy a panoramic drive along the Bosphorus.
Çamlıca Hill (Optional)
Optional visit to Çamlıca Hill on the Asian side to enjoy breathtaking sunset views over Istanbul.
Return to Accommodation
Return to your accommodation in Istanbul and conclude the tour.
What’s Included
- Hotel/accommodation transfers within Istanbul
- 12 hours of transportation in a luxury vehicle (Mercedes Vito/Viano)
- Professional driver service
- Lunch featuring Turkish cuisine
- Complimentary onboard Wi‑Fi and refreshments
- All fuel and parking fees
What’s Not Included
- Museum and historic site entrance fees
- Professional guiding services (optional)
- Dinner
- Driver gratuities (optional)
Important Notes
- Reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance.
- Appropriate attire is required for mosque visits (modest clothing, headscarf for women).
- Topkapi Palace is closed on Mondays and Dolmabahçe Palace is closed on Tuesdays.
- The tour itinerary may vary depending on traffic conditions and museum crowd levels.
- This tour includes some walking; comfortable footwear is recommended.
- A 50% discount applies for children under 7 years old.
Book This Tour Now
Prices vary based on the number of participants