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Istanbul – continents converge in grandeur, culture & history

The Turkish city of Istanbul is a buzzing and exciting modern metropolis which marries contemporary attitude with the strikingly beautiful legacies of fascinating history and the cultures of its ancient empires.

Once the centre of the Byzantian and Ottoman Empires, locals here breath ancient history in their daily lives and the best way to get to grips with life lived here, the remarkable history & heritage and really get under the skin of Istanbul is with a brilliant free walking tour recommended by FreeTour.com. Join a lovely authentic local guide to discover the many treasures here, such as the Roman Hippodrome, Sulemaniye Mosque, the Grand Bazaar, Galata Bridge & tower, Topkapı Palace, Hagia Sophia, old Ottoman-era houses of Soguk Cesme & so much more while getting great local hints, tips & recommendations on everything Istanbul - from haggling in bazaars, local Turkish baths and tea gardens to shopping, dining, and where to party in vibrant Taksim Square. A free tour in Istanbul will be one of the most insightful experiences you have in such an intriguing & lively city.

Istanbul has something different – besides the magnificent mosques, mosaics & frescoes there’s a special essence here made up of warmth and charming personality, colour and ancient mysticism with an ever-present joyful soul and spirit. It’s a marvellous city and one that makes for a truly valuable visit.

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Turkey ‎ >  Istanbul  >  Old Town Istanbul Free Walking Tour

Top 10 Istanbul Tips  |  Suggested Itineraries For Istanbul

• Old Town Walking Tour
• Bazaars Walking Tour
• New Town Walking Tour
• Golden Horn Walking Tour
• Bosphorus River Cruise
• More Sights
• Best Day Trips
• Helpful Visitor Tips
• Suggested Itineraries
• Transportation Tips
• Historical Overview

Free Istanbul Walking Tour:

Location :  Old Town Istanbul ( Sultanahmet ) Cost :  Free, Self-Guided ( Museum and sight costs below ) Start :  Hippodrome Park & Ruins End :  Restaurant Row Walking Distance :  2 Miles Time :  2 Hours of Walking ( with all attractions around 8 hours ). Important Information :  Aya Sophia & Mosaic Museum closed on Mondays; Topkapi & Harem closed on Tuesdays, Blue Mosque closed during daily prayer times which are explained below. Fun Scale :  10 out of 10

Overview of Old Town Istanbul:

Starting as an ancient Greek settlement called Byzantium, the historic core of Istanbul as also served as the capital of the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires.  These Empires each controlled huge parts of the World which led to a trove of wealth, riches, and building projects.  Huge monuments and mega-structures filled the powerful metropolis which still impress visiting tourists today.  While unrest and war have altered many of the core sights over the centuries, Old Town Istanbul has remained an amazing melting pot of cultures and architecture that you can’t find anywhere else.  We hope you enjoy our free Istanbul walking tour!

Old Town Istanbul Walking Tour:

1. former hippodrome ( sultanahmet meydani ):.

About The Hippodrome :   The best place to start an Old Town tour is the center of ancient Constantinople at the ruins of the former Hippodrome race track.   The Roman Empire conquered Greece in 149BC, but it wasn’t until 196AD that they starting building Roman structures in Byzantium.  Most of the early construction projects were quite small as Emperor Septimius Severus decided only to use the Byzantium as an outpost for Roman baths.  One of the only large projects the Emperor approved was the Hippodrome in 203AD because of how important  chariot races  were in Roman life.

Later in 324AD, Roman Emperor Constantine decided to super-size Byzantium into a renamed city called  New Rome ( Nova Roma )  which included a huge expansion to the Hippodrome. The new Hippodrome was turned into a U-shaped stadium with seating on both sides and South end  able to hold 60,000 fans .  The center of the arena was lined with monumental columns & beautiful statues, the Eastside held the monumental Black Gate, and the Westside was connected to Constantine’s huge Grand Palace complex ( here is a map for reference ).  The construction helped New Rome quickly hit its stride and Constantine officially made it the  capital of the Roman Empire  in 330AD.   After Constantine’s death, the city was renamed  Constantinople  and the Hippodrome became the center of the booming capital both geographically and socially.

Over the centuries the Hippodrome recovered from the damage in both the Nika Revolt of 532AD and from Crusaders in 1204 to remain a thriving sporting center.  It wasn’t until after the  Ottoman’s conquest in 1453AD  that the Hippodrome and neighboring Grand Palace starting falling into disrepair.  The Grand Palace was eventually replaced by the gigantic Blue Mosque and the former Hippodrome was turned into the large park you see today.  Most of the colossal structures of the ancient Roman Hippodrome are long gone, but the park still follows the arena’s original U-shaped path and has retained a couple awesome monuments.  Before visiting Roman Era monuments make sure the check out the large  German Fountain  in the Northeastern corner of the park.  The Fountain was a gift to the Sultan and the Turkish people from Kaiser Wilhelm II when he visited in 1901.  The German Fountain may seem a little modest, but peek under the roof to reveal a beautiful gold mosaic.

Continuing further down the former Hippodrome, there are 3 main Roman Era monuments that you really need to check out starting with the hieroglyph-filled  Obelisk of Theodosius .  This ancient Egyptian obelisk was originally built by Pharaoh Tutmoses III at the temple of Karnak in 1450BC, yes we said BC!  Rome had conquered Egypt in 30BC but it wasn’t until Constantine’s son requested all Pagan temples be closed in 356AD that items really started being moved from Karnak. The Obelisk of Theodosius before you and other items like the Lateran Obelisk was then moved from Karnak to Alexandria fairly quickly.  The two obelisks stayed in Alexandria until 390AD when Emperor Theodosius moved this one to the Hippodrome and the Lateran Obelisk to the center of Circus Maximus in Rome.  Today, only the upper third of the Obelisk of Theodosius remain as the rest of it was damaged in during transportation.  The large marble pedestal sits on today depicts Emperor Theodosius crowning chariot game winners.

Just down from the Egyptian obelisk, you’ll see the remains of the  Serpentine Column  which looks like a broken twisted pipe.  The Serpentine Column was originally built in 478BC in Delphi, Greece as an offering to Apollo in honor of the Greek victory in the battle of Plataea.  It’s said to be made from the melted down shields of fallen Persian soldiers the Greeks defeated there.  Originally the twisted pipes were the bodies of serpents whose large head held a golden tripod topped with a large golden bowl and it stood for over 800 years before being moved to the Hippodrome.  The Column actually remained intact until about 300 years ago when it was plundered, but the upper jaw of one of the serpents was recently found and is on display at the Istanbul Archaeological Museum.

The final major item still remaining from the Hippodrome is the bare stone  Constantine Obelisk  which sits at the far Southern end.  Often referred to as the Walled Obelisk, Emperor Constantine VII built this monument in the 920s in honor of the triumphs of his grandfather Emperor Basil I who rose to power after starting as a peasant.  The obelisk was built with rough stone, topped with a large sphere, and covered it with gilded bronze plates showing grandfather’s victories including Epeus. Unfortunately, the adornments were stolen and melted down during the Fourth Crusade in 1204 exposing the rough stone below.  Many other monuments once covered the Hippodrome grounds such as four large bronze horses from Greece which are now in front of St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice Italy.

Visiting Hours :  24 Hours a Day.   3D Renders Of the Hippodrome :  ( Aerial View  |  Interior Images 1200AD  |  Chariot Race Video 1200AD ).

2a. Blue Mosque ( Sultanahmet Camii ):

About The Blue Mosque : Built on the former grounds of Constantine’s Grand Palace, the massive Blue Mosque is stunning inside and out.  If you think the sure size of the Blue Mosque is impressive today, imagine what people thought when Sultan Ahmet completed it in 1616 AD after only 7 years of building.  Surrounding the  cascading domed architecture  is a series of  6 towering minaret spires .  Members who serve in leadership roles, called  Imams,  climb up the tall minarets to announce/sing the Call to Prayer five times a day.  For perspective, the minarets are similar to a bell tower at a church ringing out before services.  Although only one minaret is normally needed it is a legend that the Blue Mosque has six due to a  communication problem .  The Sultan wanted to show off his wealth with golden ( altin ) minarets, but the architect heard him wrong and thought he said six ( alti ) minarets.  Today the minarets have all been fitted with modern speakers capable of projecting a single imam’s voice for many blocks so no one climbs them anymore.  The sound of the Call to Prayer echoing out over Istanbul is otherworldly the first time you hear it as a tourist.

Make sure to check out the vast courtyard on the Northwest side of the complex.  The courtyard holds a beautiful fountain and the main tourist ( non-worshipers ) entrance into the Blue Mosque itself.  All active mosques are closed to non-Muslims during the five daily Calls to Prayer which we touch on with etiquette tips below.  As you head through the main entrance’s heavy drapery, the amazing interior of the Blue Mosque is a little overwhelming.  The first thing that hits you is how the cascading dome roof makes the main room feel infinitely larger than even the massive  141-foot-tall, 110-foot-wide main dome does on its own.  With almost no interior walls, the weight of the huge domes is dispersed onto 15-foot-wide elephant-foot columns in each of the corners of the main room hall.

After you wrap your mind around the size of the main hall, you’ll quickly understand why travelers gave it the name of the Blue Mosque.  The interior is covered in over  20,000 blue tiles  and filled with light from 260 windows to create an alluring explosion of color.  The French loved the shade of blue so much that they called it  turquoise , meaning “color of the Turks”.  The tiles are decorated with abstract patterns, geometric patterns, flowers, and trees.  Muslim mosques only use figurative art and do not depict living beings as they feel it would distract from the worship of Allah as their one God.  Our favorite form of art in Mosques is the elegant use of  Arabic calligraphy to depict excerpts of the Holy Quran.  The most predominant use of calligraphy in the Blue Mosque appears in two round medallions high above the main worship area with the name of the Prophet Muhammad to the left and Allah to the right.  Below the medallions lays the marble mihrab altar which points toward the holy city of Mecca which all Muslims face while worshiping.

Although there are five daily calls to prayer you’ll see people worshiping in the main area during all times of the day.  Non-worshipers are required to always stay behind the wooden railing surrounding the main worship area.  Worship services are segregated with only men allowed in the main area, while women must worship behind the railing next to the entrance. With so many wondrous elements to it, we know that your visit to the Blue Mosque will be one you’ll never forget.

Visiting Hours : Open daily from one hour after sunrise until one hour before sunset.  Closed to tourists starting 30 minutes prior to each of the 5 daily prayer times until the service it over. Services last around 30 minutes, but the Friday mid-day sermon may last a full hour.   Best Time To Visit :  Typically between 9am and Noon as it is the largest gap between services.   Here  is a helpful list of current prayer times for Istanbul day by day to better help you plan your time.   Cost :  Free.   360-degree photo :  ( The Interior ).

2b. Tourist Mosque Etiquette:  Tourists may only enter the Blue Mosque during non-prayer time through the Northwestern entrance.   Here  is a helpful list of current  prayer times  for Istanbul day by day to better help you plan your time.   Modest dress  is required for both men and women with your shoulders and knees covered; most major Mosques will let you borrow a wrap if you are not covered.  Women must also cover their heads with a scarf which are available to borrow but you can buy your own cheaply at any market.  Even during the non-prayer time, people may be praying so no running or yelling inside the mosque.  Like any place of worship do not take photos of worshipers without permission.  Keep in mind that non-Muslims must stay behind the wooden barrier surrounding the main worship area.

Before entering the Mosque everyone  must remove their shoes  at the raised platform by the door.  Proper etiquette is to take off your shoe before stepping up onto the platform without letting your foot touch the ground below.  This act ensures that both your feet and the platform will remain clean before entering; socks typically remain on if you are wearing any.  Plastic bags are provided to bring your shoes with or you can safely leave them outside in the racks by the door.

3.  Great Palace Mosaic Museum :  Located inside an active bazaar, the Mosaic Museum was created when a section of a large courtyard from Constantine’s  Great Palace  was discovered under some shops. The first series of mosaics were found in 1933, but when they found more in 1950 they made 16 shops in the Bazaar close and started the museum.  Even though they  date back to 450AD , many of the mosaics are in remarkable condition and have a unique use of shading for ancient mosaics.  We love how the simple depictions of everyday life from the times is illustrated so beautifully.  The surrounding Bazaar is popular with locals and the Museum itself is definitely worth at least 15-20 minutes of your time.   Hours:  Tuesday-Sunday 9am-5pm, stays open until 7pm April-October. Closed on Mondays.   Cost:  8TL.   Museum Website:  ( HERE ).

4. Sultan Ahmet Park:  After taking over Byzantium, the Romans built numerous bathhouses including the huge  Baths of Zeuxippus  in the early 200AD.  The Baths replaced an existing Greek Temple of Jupiter ( Zeus ) and grew to cover the entire bustling park you see today.  The location was chosen for the renowned quality of its springs as the Greek Baths of Achilles , also sat nearby.  When Constantine moved the capital here in 330AD, he built his Grand Palace connected to the Zeuxippus Baths and filled them with beautiful statues deemed very prestigious for its time ( here  is a map for reference ).  Both bathhouses and the Palace were badly damaged during the Nika Riots of 532AD.  By 700AD public bathing started to become less of a part of life in Constantinople and the baths started being used for other purposes.   It wasn’t until 1556 that bathing made a comeback here when Sultan Hürrem built the  Ayasofya Turkish Baths  ( w ebsite ) which still sit on the East side of the park.  The park was later named Sultan Ahmet Park after Sultan Ahmed I, who ruled from 1603 to 1617 and further expanded construction projects.

Visiting the park today you’ll see street vendors that dress up like Sultans and tons of friendly stray dogs & cats that roam the southern benches, but our favorite is the  large fountain  in the center of the park.  From the fountain, you’ll have  amazing views of the imposing Blue Mosque from the 1600s to the South, and the ancient Hagia Sophia from the 500s to the North.  Where the fountain sits was in Roman times a huge  Column of Emperor Justinian who was credited for rebuilding Constantinople in the mid-500s after the Nika Riots.  While the busy daytime hours are enjoyable, the most magical times to take photos in the park are near both dawn and dusk as the fountain and neighboring building exteriors light up to create a postcard-perfect effect.    Park Hours:  24/7.   Turkish Bath:  Divided by gender and requires a reservation.  Is a little expensive at $100 for scrub, wash, and massage.

*Near the entrance to the next stop make sure to check out the  Million Marker.   It was part of a central arch Constantine built in his Roman Capitol to serve as the new mile marker zero when measuring road distances to all corners of the Empire, just like the Milliarium Aureum in Rome had done since Emperor Augustus in 20 BC…

5.  Basilica Cistern  ( Yerebatan Sarayi ):  The grandest of the many underground water reservoirs in Istanbul is the ancient Basilica Cistern which can hold 27 million gallons of water!  Built in 532AD by Byzantine Emperor Justinianus, the Cistern is an engineering marvel with the weight of the city above supported by a complex network of arches connecting its  336 columns in a series of 12 rows.  It’s said that it took a workforce of over 7,000 slaves to originally dig out and build the vast Cistern which is large than 2 football fields.  It took even more slaves to complete 12-mile-long Valens’ Aqueduct that brought the water to fill the reservoirs.  Moviegoers may remember the Cistern as the location for the 1963 James Bond film  From Russia with Love .

The Basilica Cistern was in constant use for almost 1,000 years until the Ottomans conquered the city in 1453.  Because they preferred fresh tap water over sitting water, the Ottomans all but abandoned the underground reservoirs.  The new rulers decided to build their own water system and only used the Cistern to feed the Topkapi Palace gardens along with a few private homes.  Going largely unused for a century, the Cistern went undiscovered by Westerners until 1544 when Dutchman  Petrus Gyllius came to Istanbul looking for Byzantine monuments.  Gyllius noticed that many residents were getting their water by lowering buckets into holes in the floors of their homes and set out to explore beneath the massive city.  Locals directed Gyllius to a set of walled steps near a local home where he descended with torch-in-hand to explore the small corridor below.  In cramped conditions, Gyllius brought a small boat into the underground reservoir and began plotting out the columns and details of the Cistern.  He later published the story of the forgotten Cistern with illustrations in a book that inspired many new travelers to come and see the magnificent masterpiece.

In 1723, 1876, and 1958 restorations took place to re-enforce failing masonry, but the modern restoration in 1985 unveiled the greatest treasures.   The water level in the reservoir was lowered and 50,000 tons of mud were removed from the Cistern revealing that the massive columns are a whopping  30 feet tall !  Some of the columns have Corinthian-style capitals, others have Ionic capitals and 98 of them have Doric capitals.  The diversity comes because they were all reused from other structures from across the ancient Byzantine Empire.  One of the coolest Columns is engraved with images of eyes and tears  to pay tribute to the hundreds of slaves who died building the Cistern.  The removal of the mud from the 100,000 square foot space also uncovered the Cistern’s main attraction, two columns with massive Medusa heads as column bases.

The  Medusa Heads , in the far Southwestern corner of the Cistern, are from the Roman Period and have amazing detail.  One is sideways and the other is completely upside down.  Scholars generally believe that the Heads were brought from an ancient Greek  Temple of Apollo  in Didyma near Ephesus ( modern-day Turkey ).  They were brought in as column bases, but placed sideways to show a change from the old Pagan religion to Christianity.   In addition to the scholarly explanation, there are  3 local legends  for why the Medusa Heads are sitting sideways in the Cistern.  One legend says the heads were used because Medusa is believed to be one of three Gorgonas which are female monsters of the underworld.  Another belief is that the heads were moved here to provide protection to the important structure.  The third legend is that the Medusa heads were put here sideways so anyone who looked upon her wouldn’t be turned to stone by her gaze.

When the modern restoration was complete all of the original 52 steps down from the outside entrance were uncovered, platforms for tourists to walk on were added, an underground cafe was opened, and they found that the 4-foot-wide brick walls of the Cistern had been made waterproof with a thick layer of Khorasan mortar.  The Cistern’s mysterious aura makes it one of our favorite spots in Istanbul and is not to be missed.  The Cistern’s name in Turkish, Yerebatan Sarayi, literally means Underground Palace.   Hours:  Daily, 9am-5:30pm but stays open until 6:30pm in the Summer.  Last entry 30 minutes before close.   Cost:  10TL.   Cistern Website:  ( HERE ).

6a.  Hagia Sophia’s History  ( Aya Sofya ):  Behind the pale pink facade of Hagia Sophia lies a dramatic black & gold interior, dim medieval lighting, and over 1,500 years of interesting history.  Words almost can’t describe how your senses are thrown back in time and are confused by mixed elements of Orthodox, Islamic, and Catholic origins.  Built in 537 A.D. by the Byzantines on the same spot as two previous churches,  Hagia Sophia ( Holy Wisdom )  is considered one of the greatest religious buildings in the entire World.  Hagia Sophia replaced two previous churches built on the same spot.  The 1st was the enormous  Megale Ekklesia ( The Great Church ) , built in 360 A.D., which was destroyed in the riots of 404 A.D.  The 2nd church was built in 415 A.D. and lasted until it was burned down during the Nika revolt in 532 A.D.  During the revolt half the city was burned and over 30,000 people died.  You can still see large marble blocks with lamb carvings from the 2nd church in pits near Hagia Sophia’s entrance.

The current Hagia Sophia was  completed in 537 A.D.  while most of Europe was beginning its Dark Ages and Istanbul was booming which led to over 400 years of the city being the center of Christianity.  The builders spared no expense on the massive domed church and it seems that there’s marble everywhere you look.  When Hagia Sophia’s 182-foot-tall and the 104-foot-wide main dome was completed, it was the  largest dome in the World  until the Cathedral of Florence was built 900 years later.  The dome is so large that the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris could fit inside it.

As the church’s power grew riches arrived from all corners of the Byzantine Empire to Hagia Sophia from doors they believed to be made from Noah’s Ark, to large marble doors from conquered temples.  Many of these riches still survive today, but the power didn’t last forever.  In 1204 Crusaders overtook the Hagia Sophia and controlled it for the Roman Catholic Church until 1261.  During the years of Catholic control, many of Hagia Sophia’s riches were sent to Venice Italy.  Luckily the Crusaders kept many of the detailed gold mosaics of the upper gallery of the church untouched.

As if the Catholic Crusaders weren’t enough, the  Ottomans took Istanbul over in 1453 and converted Hagia Sophia  into a Mosque .  Any images of living beings inside the Mosque were removed and all of remaining gold mosaics upstairs  were plastered over .  Some historians feel that the conversion to a Mosque actually saved Hagia Sophia as it had begun falling into ruin before the Ottomans took over.  The Ottomans not only added the four minarets spires to Hagia Sophia’s exterior during the conversion, but also made other interesting structural changes like moving the prayer niche off center.  They did actually have to move the niche because the original Christian Church was built to face Jerusalem while the prayer niche in a Mosque needs to face the Muslim holy city of Mecca.  After the Ottoman Empire fell in the early 1900s and the newly formed government of Turkey closed Hagia Sophia as a worship center to  turn it into a museum  in 1934.  During restorations, they removed the plaster on the upper gallery to reveal the previously unknown gold Christian mosaics largely intact in all their shimmering glory.  The quality and detail of the ancient mosaics are some of the nicest in the world.  Along with the Christian elements, some parts of the Mosque have also survived including several large decorative medallions adorned with Arabic calligraphy can be seen from anywhere in Hagia Sophia and make the cultural blending complete.

6b.  Touring Hagia Sophia  ( Aya Sofya ):  The brochure you get at the entrance of the Museum has a great map and most points of interest will have an English description plate near them so learning and exploring on the fly is easy.  Here are our favorite of the many points of interests by floor.  Before entering Hagia Sophia check out the marble flower statue next to the fountain, it’s really cool.

First Floor Tour:  After entering Hagia Sophia, the first door you walk through is the bronze gilded  Nice Door  which was installed in 838 A.D.  The door is actually the oldest artifact inside Hagia Sophia as it is believed to be from 200 B.C. when it was made for the Pagan Temple in Antioch.  Some say that the wood used for the core of the door is made out of pieces from Noah’s Ark.  Past the door, make sure to notice the large mosaic known as the  Donation Mosaic .  It shows The Mother Mary and Jesus being offered a model of the city by Constantine on the right and a model of Hagia Sophia by Justinian to the left.  Continuing to the center of the hallway you’ll find the main entrance the nave known as the  Imperial Gate .  Originally this entrance was used only for members of the Imperial family and above it is a mosaic showing Emperor Leon VI kneeling at the feet of God.

Once you hit the main nave of the church your jaw will drop from the pure size and old-world beauty of Hagia Sophia.  After you’ve wrapped your mind around the size of the interior, head left to the massive  Marble Lustration Jar .  There is also a matching jar in the opposite back corner of the main nave, but this one is our favorite.  The jars were originally carved the Hellenistic period and later brought to Hagia Sophia in 1580 A.D. from the ancient Greek acropolis in Pergamon, Turkey.  Can you believe that each jar was carved out of a single block of marble?  We find it absolutely remarkable given how huge the jars are as you can see from the photo above.  Just beyond the Lustration Jar, in the far back corner of the nave is the always fun  Wishing Column .  You can’t miss it as it is the only column wrapped in bronze and has an obvious hole sitting right at shoulder height.  It’s said that if you do a complete clockwise circle with your hand while keeping your thumb in the hole your wish will come true.  Some party poopers will tell you your thumb has to come out damp for your wish to come true, but it is fun either way.  See in the photo to the left how visitors over the years have polished a circle on the bronze by spinning their hands on it.

As you move to the prayer niche at the far end of the nave you’ll see an inconspicuous square roped off in the middle of the floor, this is the  Omphalion .  Notice how the floor is a different pattern here with a series of colored marble circles.  This spot is not only where the Byzantine Emperors would sit during service, but is also where the coronation of every Emperor took place.  Before moving closer to explore the prayer niche you can really notice how  off center it is  from when the Ottomans moved it from facing Jerusalem to Mecca during the conversion into a Mosque.  Also, notice how impressive the 24 foot wide Arabic medallions look above the Apse.  The pairs of medallions have the name of the Prophet Muhammad to the left and Allah to the right.  Sitting high on the left side of the prayer niche, totally enclosed in a gold lattice, is the  Sultan’s Loge . The lattice provided both privacy for the Sultan during prayer and protection against assassination.  On the right side of the prayer niche is a tall stair column called the  Mimber  where the Imam would give Friday services.  During prayer service, the Imam would only go halfway up as the top was symbolically reserved only for the Prophet Muhammad out of respect.   360 degree photo :  ( The Main floor ).

Upper Gallery Tour:  One of the coolest experiences in Hagia Sophia is the dark  Ancient Ramp  you take to get to the upper gallery.  The winding and uneven ramp is dimly lit and has the feel of exploring hidden corridors of a medieval castle.  While there may have been stairs at one point, the ramp was a very important addition to Hagia Sophia as Sultans and Emperors were often carried upstairs by their servants or rode up on horseback.  When you emerge from the ramp notice how most of the columns upstairs are made out of beautiful green marble instead of the standard white marble.  As you walk along the railing to the back of Hagia Sophia you’ll find the best views at the  Loge of the Empress  marked with a green stone.  This is where the Byzantine Empress would sit to watch service.  Continuing down the back of the Church, keep an eye out for the block with the  Runic Inscriptions  along the back wall.  This marble block is where some Vikings left graffiti in the 9th century; Halfdan the only legible name.  After you’ve taken in the elevated views of the main nave below, work toward the large white  Marble Door .  The door was used by members of the church council to enter meetings and also leads the way to the best mosaics in Hagia Sophia.

Right after passing through the large Marble Door is probably the most photographed mosaic, called the  Deësis Mosaic .  This mosaic was made in 1261 to mark the end of the 57-year occupation of Hagia Sophia by Catholic Crusaders.  While damaged from the plaster that also helped preserve it during Ottoman rule, the Deësis Mosaic depicts Jesus flanked by Mother Mary to the left and John the Baptist to the right.  At the end of the hallway, there are two more awesome mosaics on either side of a large window.  To the right is the  Commenos Mosaic  which dates 1122 A.D. and may be the best-preservedd mosaic in all of Hagia Sophia.   The Commenos Mosaics shows Mother Mary holding the baby Jesus flanked by Empress Irene to the right and Emperor John Commenos II to the left.   To the left of the window is the  Empress Zoë Mosaic  from the 11th Century and has been altered over time.  The Empress Zoë mosaic depicts Christ flanked to the left by Emperor Constantine IX Monomachos and to the right by Empress Zoë.  Zoë’s face had been scraped off by her nephew when he briefly took power but was re-added after she had him killed.  There is evidence that the Emperor’s face also replaced that of one of Zoë’s two previous husbands.  Before leaving the upper gallery make sure to check out the  Dome Mosaics  above the main nave. Several mosaics lay high on the roof of the dome itself and are of note as they are the oldest remaining mosaics in Hagia Sophia dating back the the mid 9th Century.  The most intact is that of the Virgin Mary holding the child Jesus on her lap.  The closer few you get of the Dome Mosaics from the Upper Gallery makes them a lot more impressive.

Museum Cost:  25TL.   Hours : Tuesday-Sunday 9am-630pm, may close at 430 in the off season. Closed Mondays. Last entry 1 hour before close.   Museum Website:  ( HERE ).

7. Fountain of Ahmed III:  As you approach the gate of Topkapi Palace’s first courtyard you’ll come to a small but funky fountain building.  Sultan Ahmed III built the fountain in 1728 and it served as a large meeting point during the second half of the Ottoman Empire.  While the fountain makes a for a great brief stop, it will also you relief that you are heading the right way toward the main entrance of Topkapi Palace.

* After checking out the fountain, head down the hill for a truly relaxing stop at the… 8. Gülhane Sur Cafe:  Gülhane Sur Cafe is slightly down the hill but impossible to miss as most of the seating is right up against the stone walls that line the alley.  The Cafe is really the perfect place to relax and if you’re lucky you’ll get the booth that has a tree growing right in the middle of its padded bench.  To truly live like a local order a  nargile (hooka)  for 15TL and take a few puffs on its dried fruit.  It isn’t uncommon to see locals at the cafe puffing on a nargile while dressed up like Sultans. There are often many friendly cats around the cafe.  Coffee and Tea are pretty cheap and only priced from 2-6TL.  Getting your tea with two cubes of sugar is common in Turkey.  Owner Murat Coskun is a really fun guy and also owns the gift shop ( Coskun Bazaar ) located above the cafe which has really good prices especially on scarves.  If you are looking for more of a cosmopolitan place to eat a full meal, consider stopping at the  Seven Hill Rooftop Restaurant  ( website ) right after the Mosaic Museum which is marked on our map.

Address : Soğukçeşme Sok 40A (the small street behind Hagia Sophia).   Cafe’s Facebook Page :  Here .   Hours :  Open Daily 10am-1am.   Cost :  Hooka is around 15TL, Coffee & Tea are 2-6TL, and snacks are cheap.

9a. Topkapı Palace History ( Topkapı Sarayı ):  Before touring the vast Topkapi Palace, a brief overview on its history is quite helpful.  The hill the current Palace was built on a once housed an  ancient Greek Acropolis  from the days of Byzantium.  The Acropolis had large temples for the gods Poseidon, Athena, Artemis, and Aphrodite.  When the Romans took the temples were surprising preserved and used for other purposes like gaming halls and carriage houses.  The Acropolis slowly fell into ruins over the the centuries until the Ottoman conquest in 1453 AD.  Sultan Mehed II built his first royal palace on the grounds that now house Istanbul University, but he always had his eye on the Acropolis.

The Sultan’s first project near the Greek temples was a small pleasure palace called the  Tiled Kiosk built along an old cannoned Byzantine wall.  The location was perfect and the Sultan decided to build a new royal palace on top of the hill.  Constructed from 1460-1478 AD, the new  Topkapi Palace  was named for the series of cannons ( Topkapusu ) on the old city wall.  The palace was further expanded over time and served as the home of the Ottoman Sultans and their court until the middle of the 19th century.  The overall design of Topkapi Palace has fortified walls forming a series of courtyards which get more and more private the deeper you go.

In the early 1850s, the palace became inadequate to the requirements of state ceremonies and protocol, and so the Sultans moved to  Dolmabahçe Palace  on the Bosphorus Straight.  Because Topkapi was considered the ancestral residence of the Ottoman Dynasty, it along with the Royal Treasury, the Holy Relics of the Prophet Muhammad, and the Imperial Archives continued to be preserved.  The Palace also continued to host many official State ceremonies after the Sultans moved out.  Following the abolishment of the Ottoman monarchy in 1922, Topkapi Palace was converted into a museum on 3 April 1924, on the order of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk who founded modern Turkey.

9b.  First Courtyard of Topkapi Palace:  Stepping through the mighty  Imperial Gate  puts you officially inside the First Courtyard of Topkapi Palace known as the Parade Grounds.  During Ottoman rule, this gate was guarded and only open from morning prayer until just after evening prayer.  Just inside the Imperial Gate to the left, you’ll find  Hagia Irene,  also known as the Basilica of Divine Peace.  Hagia Irene ( Aya Irini Kilisesi ) was modeled after the Greek Temple of Aphrodite which stood here and became  1st church built in Constantinople  when it was completed the early 3rd Century.  It also served as the Byzantines’ head Orthodox Church until the original Hagia Sophia was completed in 360.  Hagia Irene was burned down in the Nika revolt of 532 A.D. but was quickly rebuilt.  When the Ottomans conquered the city in 1453 and built Topkapi Palace, they enclosed Hagia Irene inside the 1st courtyard of the Palace to preserve it.  Hagia Irene was one of the only churches not converted into a mosque when the Ottomans took over because they decided to use is as the armory for the Topkapi Palace.  Today Hagia Irene is fairly empty outside of a few mosaics, but still serves as concert hall due to its great acoustics.

To give you a better idea of the sure size of the outer First Courtyard,  Here  is a model of the greater Topkapi Palace grounds with the Imperial Gate located in the middle of the outer wall.  The courtyard wall basically surrounds all of the area of the ancient Greek Acropolis with the main Palace in the center.  You can still find numerous 3 foot columns from the Acropolis hidden around the First Courtyard.  As far as day to day life,  Here  is a painting from 1584 of what life in the First Courtyard life was like.

Cost : Free.   Visiting Hours :  Daily dawn-dusk, often left open all night.

10.  Topkapı Palace Museums  ( Topkapı Sarayı ):  In the center of the First Courtyard you’ll be drawn to the castle-like  Gate of Salutation ( Bab-us Selam ) .  The gate marks the outer edge of the main Palace and  Second Courtyard ( Council Square ) .  Before entering the security checkpoint, buy your ticket at the booth and notice the fountain built into the wall to the far right of the gate.  This is called the  Executioners’ Fountain ( Cellat Çesmesi ) where executioners would wash their hands after chopping off people’s heads.

Once inside the Gate of Salutation you are in the Palace Museum which covers Courtyards 2-4 and includes the Chamber of Holy Relics, Imperial Treasury, Porcelain Collection and Weapons Collection.   Here  is a model of the Palace’s 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Courtyards to help make it easier to find things.  A half a day minimum is needed to fully explore the entire Palace Museum and Harem, but a full day will really help you get your money’s worth.  If you’re short on time,  the 4 must-see things  are the Harem (explained in #11), the Imperial Treasury, the Holy Relics, and the river views from the innermost Fourth Courtyard.  In a pinch, these 4 can be seen in about 2 hours if you speed through them.  As you stroll through the Second Courtyard, make sure to keep an eye out for the many hollowed out, but still living, trees.  Tons of the trees at the Palace got a fungus and lost their guts over hundreds of years but are somehow still standing, still growing, and still producing plentiful leaves.

Chamber of Holy Relics:  The Chamber of the Holy Relics, located within the Privy Room, contains religious objects sent to the Ottoman Sultans both as gifts and gained through conquest.  Among the most important holy relics is the Holy Mantle of the Prophet Muhammad; the hair from Muhammad’s beard; the reliquary with  Muhammad’s Tooth  which was broken during the Battle of Uhud on 19 March 625; plus the footprints, signed letters, bow, and  the sword of the Muhammad .  There are also holy relics attributed to other important religious figures such as the saucepan tray used by Abraham;  the staff of Moses ; the sword of David; the robe and  turban of Joseph ; the swords of the Prophet Muhammad’s companions; and the shirt, mantle, praying mat, and chest of Muhammad’’s daughter Fatimah.  Maybe the most beautiful of the relics is the jeweled skull and  Arm of St. John the Baptist .  The relics in this chamber are so sacred that even the Ottoman Sultans were once only allowed one visit a year during the 15th day of Ramadan.  Today everyone is welcome to check out the relics every day and some people pilgrimage just to see them.

Imperial Treasury:  The Ottoman Imperial Treasury is one of the most impressive in Europe.  It is made up of gifts presented at ambassadorial receptions, Sultans’’ weddings, royal births, and of the Circumcision Festivities for the princes.  While many gifts came from all over the World, some also came from local artists who would, in exchange for their gifts, would get promises of support and purchases of future works.  The Sultans would also, on occasion, send gifts to foreign rulers; however, for various reasons, some of these would not reach their destination, in which case they would be returned and take their place in the palace treasury.  An example of this sort of gift is the  Emerald Dagger  and emerald/diamond studded bow & quivers sent by Sultan Mahmud I to Nadir Shah of Persia.  Because the Persian leader was killed while these gifts were on the way they were returned to the Treasury.  The Dagger is the most impressive piece in the entire museum with its diamond-encrusted gold sheath, golf ball-sized emeralds on its handle, and even a small flip open clock on the handle’s base.  The 86 carat  Spoonmaker’s Diamond is a close second for the coolest item in the museum.

Weapons Collection:  The Palace’s Weapons Collection is easily among the richest collections in the World.  This premier collection covers 1,300 years and consists of 52,000 weapons of Arab, Umayyad, Abbasid, Mamluk, Persian, Turkish, Crimean Tartar, Indian, European, and Japanese origin. A bulk of the collection is made up of weapons transferred from the Armory ( Cebehâne ) and those used by the Topkapi Palace guards; however, the collection’s most noteworthy section consists of those weapons ordered by the Sultan personally or specially made as gifts for him, which weapons are a part of the palace’s private collection. This collection includes weaponry owned by such sultans as Mehmed II, Bayezid II, Selim the Grim, Suleiman the Magnificent, Selim II, Mehmed II, and Ahmed I, as well as the weapons of such high-level dignitaries as grand viziers, pashas, and palace chamberlains; all of these weapons are eye-catching with their fine craftsmanship and decorations. An additional factor that contributed to the diversification of the collection’s highly artistic weaponry was the tradition of bringing to the palace the weapons of important figures that were obtained through plunder.

Chinese and Japanese Porcelain:  Among the most invaluable collections in the Topkapi Palace Museum is its Chinese and Japanese Porcelain collection, which is displayed in the Palace’s Imperial Kitchens. This unique collection, which consists of more than 10,000 pieces, is the largest porcelain collection outside of China, and is particularly important in that it showcases the uninterrupted historical development of porcelain from the 13th century to the early 20th century.

Cost:  25TL. Optional audio is 10TL and overs both the entire Museum but also the Harem listed next.  Most items will be labeled in English so the audio guide isn’t required.   Hours:  Open Wednesday-Monday 9am-5pm, stay open until 6:45pm April-October.  Ticket sales stop 1 hour prior to close for the museum.  CLOSED on Tuesdays.   Museum Website:  ( HERE ).

11.  The Sultan’s Harem :  The Harem section of the Topkapi Palace is where the Sultans spent private time and lived with their families.  It is a complex and maze-like 300 room area which was the  most private area  of the Palace.  Harem originates from the Arabic word  Harīm  which means “forbidden”.  In addition to the Sultan the Queen Mother ( Sultan’s mom ), Wives ( he could have up to 4 ), Concubines ( female slaves not sexually active with the Sultan ), Favorites ( girlfriends ) Black Eunuch Guards ( with genitals cut off ) and children all lived in the Harem.  The main purpose of all of the extra wives and girlfriends was  to provide heirs  to the Ottoman throne, but it wasn’t a crazy sex party.  The Queen Mother restricted which women the Sultan could have relations or socialize with and she ran a pretty tight ship.  To help the Queen Mother keep everything pure, the Sultan had the Harem guarded by  Black Eunuchs  who were slaves from Africa with their genitals removed.

The Harem also served as a school for Dershirmeh Girls and Page Boys between the ages of 6 and 16 who were raised under Islamic rules.  Most of the girls were taught music and etiquette before being married off to Cavalrymen or other official royal workers at the age of 25.  Girls selected as Chambermaids were given a wider education and had a chance to be chosen as Favorites by the Queen mother.  People of the day viewed the Harem as a school where wives were raised for Sultans, for the Sultan’s sons and for popular people in Ottoman history.

Touring The Harem:  Typically only around 20 of the 300 rooms are open for tourists at a given time, but they are well worth the price of admissions.  Starting off your self-guided tour, the  Carriage Gate  serves as the entrance to the Harem museum.  It gets its name because covered wagons would stop here to both drop-off and pick up the women of the Harem discretely.  The first room is one of our favorites and serviced as the true entrance to the Harem, called the  Hall of the Ablution Fountain,  better known as the Sofa.  The explosion of turquoise-colored tiles in the hallway is amazing.  Imagine what it must have been like as a guest sitting on the stone benches waiting for the Black Eunuch guards to let you in.

As you move on, a decorated cobblestone path leads the way through the next few stops.  Next up is the  Courtyard of the Eunuchs  where you walk outside along a long row of apartments that housed the Eunuch guards.  At the very end is the apartment of the Chief Eunuch who oversaw the the gaurds as well as the school of the Princes located above his apartment.  The cobblestone path continues to lead you along the Courtyard, through a small gold mirrored room, and into the  Courtyard of the Queen Mother .  This important Courtyard was a place where many of the people in the Harem would mingle and was overlooked by apartments of the Queen Mother, the Sultan, the Sultan’s senior wife, and his heirs to the throne.

Backtracking through the gold mirror room you will go through a series of rooms and other courtyards with uneven marble floors that served as the living areas for the  Sultan’s Concubines .  You’ll definitely know you’re through the concubine area when you hit a small fireplace room lined floor to ceiling with blue tiles.  You are now entering the  Quarters of the Queen Mother.  The tiles in the first room of the Queen Mother Quarters are very interesting and mainly decorated with plant and leaf shapes.  The second room you hit is smaller with a sofa and another explosion of colorful tiles.

The  Royal Hamam ( Bathrooms )  which the Sultan and Queen Mother shared separated their quarters and are absolutely stunning.  Notice how bright the Bathrooms are as the use of skylights flood the rooms with natural light.  The Royal Bathrooms were pretty advanced in their day as the Sultan had a toilet along with hot and cold running water.  Advancing through the Bathrooms you’re thrust into the  Hall with a Fountain  which was the holding room for guests waiting to be received in the most impressive room in the entire Harem, the  Imperial Throne Hall .  The Imperial Throne Hall was the official reception room for the Sultan and also the main entertainment hall of the entire Harem.  The Sultan would sit in his gold throne while the Queen Mother and Favorites sat around the red sofa, and musicians played on the balcony above.  The visuals of the large domed room were the envy of many royal guests, but our favorite part is the secret safety escape tunnel the Sultan had behind the large mirror.

Next up are the rooms making up the  Privy Chamber of Murad III ( Dining Hall ).   Even the chamber entrance to the Murad III’s Privy is awesome as almost all of its tiles depict peacock and other feathers instead of mainly shapes and plants like most of the rest of the Harem.  The Privy is said to be the oldest room in the Harem dating back to 1578.  It is considered one of the most magnificent architectural space in Ottoman history and we really like the use of borders in the room.  Titled scenes in the large room have orange borders and the entire room has a ring of big blue tiles with white Arabic writing known as the  Throne Verse .

The small room the side of Murad III’s Privy is the Privy Chamber of Ahmed I which gives you a great vantage point to peak into darker Privy Chamber of Ahmed III, also known as the  Fruit Room .  The Fruit Room was built in 1705 with pictures of flowers and fruits painted on lacquered wooden panels instead of tiles reflect the beginning of Western influence in Ottoman art.

Working back through both the Privys and the peacock chamber, you’ll find yourself in a long hallway full of tiles with a repeating white, maroon, and dark blue pattern.  As you start down the hallway, the entrance the Twin Kiosks  quickly comes up on your left. The crown princes were forced to live here in seclusion through their education until adulthood.  The combination of beautiful stained glass windows and detailed tiled walls will for sure make you want to take a few extra minutes in these room.

At the end of the hallway where you entered the Twin Kiosks, you’ll find yourself in the  Courtyard of the Favorites .  Because the Sultan was limited to a max of four wives he needed plenty of quarters to house his Favorites ( girlfriends ) who were chosen by the Queen Mother.  In the courtyard, you will be able to see why people may have thought the Twin Kiosks looked like a cage with the princes looked up.  If you walk all the way to the stone railing of the courtyard you’ll have a perfect view of the now empty pool directly below.

Cost : 15TL.  Cannot get to the Harem without having also bought a ticket for the Topakpi Palace Museum.  Harem only audio guide is 5TL.   Hours :  Open Wednesday-Monday 9am-4pm, stay open until 5pm April-October.  CLOSED on Tuesdays.   Museum Website :  ( HERE ).

12.  Archaeological Museum :  The Istanbul Archaeological Museum houses a collection of about 1 million objects from many different civilizations and cultures, which makes it the largest Turkey and one of the ten richest museums in the World.  The collections include objects from many different civilizations founded on regions that became a part of the Ottoman Empire, from the Balkans to Africa, from Anatolia and Mesopotamia to the Arabian Peninsula and to Afghanistan.

The museum consists of three different sections: The Museum of Archaeology, the Ancient Orient Museum, and the Tiled Kiosk Museum. Those three buildings present traces from different ages and civilizations.  In the Section of Ancient Orient, artifacts belonging to civilizations including Sumerian, Assyrian, Babylonian and Hittite discovered in Arabia, Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Anatolia are exhibited.

The Museum of Archaeology, which is the biggest one, hosts the collections of Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic and Roman Periods, Thrakia-Bithynia, Byzantium, İstanbul through the Ages, Troia, and Anatolia through the Ages and the Neighboring Cultures of Anatolia: Cyprus, Syria-Palestine. Meanwhile, in the Tiled Kiosk, outstanding tile and ceramic works belonging to the Turkish and Islamic art may be seen.

Cost : 10TL.   Hours : Open daily 9am-5pm, stay open until 7pm April-October.  They stop selling tickets 30 minutes before close.   Museum Website :  ( HERE ).

*If you want to save a little bit of walking to the next stop try the Tram.  From the Gülhane stop you can quickly go to the Sultanahmet stop for just 1.5TL anytime between 6am-Midnight and be dropped off right by…

13. Restaurant Row:  If you’re looking for true Turkish Delight, look no further than the area we call Restaurant Row!  As you approach the pedestrian-only alley off Divanyolu Caddesi known as Restaurant Row, you are bombarded with smells and colors that overwhelm your senses.  Traditional sweet shops cram into every nook leading to the alley and carry everything from sweet Turkish Delights, to fresh pomegranates, baking fruit torts.  If you are looking for some late night shopping there are also many traditional shops selling hanging lights, clothing, rugs, dishware and more.  Even if you aren’t buying anything the ambiance after dark in any of the light shops is awesome.

Sir Evi Restaurant  ( website ) is a place we’ve eaten at many times and has probably the coolest decor on Restaurant Row.  The upstairs a bathroom are both really neat, plus the food is awesome!  Amerdros is another restaurant we’ve had good food at.   Amerdos  ( website ) is a little cheaper and has more outdoor seating.  Regardless of where you choose to eat you have to make sure to order a traditional Turkish dish.  The one that will really make your jaw drop is  Testi Kabab .  Testi Kebab is more or less a vegetable and meat stew but it cooked in a sealed clay pot to keep the moisture in and brought to your table still sealed and engulfed in flames.  The waiter gives it a few stiff whacks to knock the top off, blows out the fire and you eat right out of the pot as your bowl.  The act and presentable never gets old.

Location :  Intersection of Divanyolu Caddesi &  Hoca Rustem Sokak.    Hours :  Most shops and restaurants are open daily until late.

14.  Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum  ( Turk-islam Eserleri Muzesi ):  Located on the West side of the Hippodrome where the Black Gate once stood.   Hours:  Tuesday-Sunday 9am-5pm, last entry 4:30pm.   Cost:  10TL.   Museum Website:  ( HERE ).

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Free Walking Tour Istanbul

Free Walking Tour Istanbul is happy to provide free, guided and name-your-own-price guided Istanbul walking tours. We provide free walking tour by the official tour guides to lead walking city tours as well as private and small group tours with better prices so that you will enjoy quality walking tour experience no matter what your budget. Everybody is welcomed to our free walking tours in Istanbul for a price they feel it was worth.

Even if you are in Istanbul for a few days or sightseeing for the day, our Free Istanbul Walking Tours cover top sites as well as hidden gems of Istanbul. Free Istanbul Walking Tours provide both free walking tours and paid tours that make you explore Istanbul perfectly.

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Travel agencies shall seek profit for tour services they provide to prevent unfair competition, in accordance with the Turkish Regulation Pertaining to Travel Agencies. Therefore, our agency offers regular walking tours at minimum fees, and these tours are provided by licensed tourist guides. Respectfully submitted for your consideration.

Free Walking Tour: Old Town Of Istanbul with Hagia Sophia

Explore the old city of Istanbul with an official tour guide, hits some sites in a small group. This tour will make you think it is totally a paid tour

Free Tour: Alternative - Parts Unknown

This tour is a great alternative if you have already seen Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque part, or looking for a more off-the-beaten-track-free tour!

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Istanbul Free Tour

• 9.10 / 10 10,444 reviews | 95,105 travellers The excellent guide with his explanations and comments, very good humor 10 Sergio Daniel

Admire the exterior architecture of opulent mosques and discover the amazing history of Istanbul with this guided tour.

Description

We'll begin this free guided tour of Istanbul at 10:30 am at the centrally located Sultanahmet Square . Just a short walk from the square, we'll find the famous  Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia Basilica, two of Istanbul's most iconic temples.

On a stop in front of their emblematic facades, you'll be able to appreciate all the intricate (and surprising) architectural details that usually go unnoticed.

Continuing on, we'll head in the direction of Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cistern or "submerged palace," the latter of which houses a great secret that has even been mentioned in one of Dan Brown's novels.

Next, we'll explore the square where the Roman Hippodrome of Constantinople used to be located. In the past, this great public space was where the popular chariot races were held, "the Formula 1 of Antiquity". You'll learn all about these competitions and why they achieved success similar to that of today's formula racing.

In the final stretch of this free guided tour, we'll visit the German Fountain , the Obelisk of Thutmose III and the Hagia Irene . Then, around 1 pm, this free tour of Istanbul will end, in front of the Little Hagia Sophia . 

Important information

This free tour doesn't admit groups of more than 6 people, even if they book the activity separately. If you are a larger group, you can book our book a private tour of Istanbul. ​

More Information

2 hours 30 minutes.

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

English speaking guide

Not included

When to book.

You can book up until 12 hours before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible. This must be indicated in the reservation. An accompanying person is required.

Sustainability

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code .

Our providers commit to:

• Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
• Reduce, reuse, recycle.
• Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
• Uphold fair employment standards.
• Foster the growth of local communities.
• Preserve the integrity of local culture.
• Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
• Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
• Operate with honesty and transparency.
• Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

• No printing of documentation required.
• Promotes local employment.
• Has a gender equality policy.
• Has a carbon footprint offset policy.

Mustafa Afsin Tuluce Viaurbis Show more

Corporate name: SALTICA LTD

Frequently asked questions

Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.

Q - How to book?

A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

If you have any other questions please contact us.

Free cancellation

Meeting point, where does the activity end.

Sultan Ahmet Park

Little Hagia Sophia

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Discover Istanbul with our free walking tours and enjoy the city to the fullest! It is not important how much budget you have.

Istanbul Free Tour gives everyone the option to live a quality Istanbul experience within their budget. Our tip-based model allows you to support and reward just the best tour experiences. At the end of the tour, you are free to tip your tour guide depending on your enjoyment and budget.

Our walking tour will show you some of Istanbul’s major landmarks that have been most crucial to Turkey’s modern life and Ottoman history.

As you walk around the old city center, you will witness how the city transformed itself from the ancient empires to today’s modern democracy. You will not walk on the most colorful streets of Istanbul, but also hear some fascinating stories that will enhance your experience and get some useful tips to maximize your time in Istanbul.

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Free Tour of Istanbul

Discover Istanbul's main attractions on this 2.5 hour Free Walking Tour

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Discover the Enchanting Fusion of East and West in Istanbul

Tours in Istanbul are offered by our partners, Via Urbis.

Step into the mesmerizing scenery of Istanbul, where the East meets the West in a seamless blend of tradition and modernity. This city, straddling two continents with the Bosphorus as its divide, unfolds like a living history book. Begin your exploration at the iconic Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece that has witnessed the ebb and flow of empires. As the call to prayer resonates, traverse the enchanting Blue Mosque, adorned with delicate tiles that paint the sky.

Stroll through the bustling Grand Bazaar, a kaleidoscope of colors and aromas where centuries-old traditions persist in the heart of the metropolis. Wander along the historic Sultanahmet district, where the Topkapi Palace unveils the opulent lifestyle of Ottoman sultans. Let the air be filled with the scents of spices and the vibrant energy of the Spice Bazaar, a sensory delight for any explorer.

Cross the Bosphorus to the vibrant neighborhoods of Karaköy and Beyoğlu, where trendy cafes and art galleries coexist with historic landmarks. Feel the pulse of the city at Taksim Square, a modern hub surrounded by cultural gems. Istanbul, with its rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking panoramas, invites you to immerse yourself in a journey that spans continents and centuries.

Ready to unravel the secrets of Istanbul on foot? Embark on a Free Walking Tour in Istanbul and let the city’s stories unfold as you wander through its captivating streets.

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Tours in Istanbul are offered by a partner, not SANDEMANs NEW Europe.

We only work with partners we know, trust, and who have been vetted by us to ensure they meet the same standards you are used to enjoying in SANDEMANs’ own cities.

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Free walking tours in Istanbul

In the East, Istanbul stands tall and grand, A city that awakens, elusive and alive, so grand, Between continents, a bond that forever withstands, Its charm and mystery, captivating every strand.

Mosques with minarets, into the sky, they ascend, In the night's embrace, their lights transcend, The tranquil Bosphorus, where two worlds blend, Its waters reflect tales without an end.

In the Grand Bazaar, colors and scents unite, Spices and treasures, souls take flight, Eminönü stirs with ceaseless delight, A bustling dream where time feels light.

Hagia Sophia, witness to ages gone by,

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How to score a free walking tour in Istanbul.

Istanbul is one of those cities that I fell in love with late in life. While two of my good friends from my college days in New York are from Istanbul and we all visited in our twenties, I only remember how horribly sick I got after eating Tavuk göğsü, a sweet chicken pudding (just googling the name and seeing the images brought it all back). It took me more than 15 years to return and for it to click despite Istanbul’s ever-present chicken pudding.

But once it clicked, Istanbul stuck on my mind. Not only because there is so much more to eat in Istanbul than the dish that shall not be named anymore.

Luckily for me, I have done quite a few trips over the last couple of years with Turkish Airlines which brought along a stopover in Istanbul. During my last journey with Turkish Airlines, coming back from my summer in Cape Town I also got to test their free Istanbul day tours called Touristanbul.

While many airlines offer inexpensive rates for stopovers in their home town, Turkish Airlines also offers an Istanbul layover tour during the day. All you need is an international flight with them and a layover in Istanbul between 6 and 24 hours which is just the right amount of time to explore a little in the city, drink some Turkish tea, and eat some Turkish food.

Even better as it doesn’t matter whether you have been to Istanbul before or not as they have various tours on offer which show you different parts of the city. And needless to say, the tours vary in length and time to fit your layover.

Touristanbul – A free walking Tour in Istanbul

I arrived from Cape Town at the new Istanbul airport at 6 am and made my sleepy way to the Touristanbul counter. It is on the same floor as the arrivals terminal and once you walk out you will need to make your way to exit 13 and will see it across from the exit. Take a number and wait your turn before you get to the counter where you can select your Istanbul city tour. If you are unsure the staff can advise you on which tour is suitable for you depending on how long your layover is.

I had the choice between a tour for 6 hours or one for 9 hours as my layover was the entire day. Since I was more than a little tired (even in the lovely economy class of Turkish Airlines I didn’t sleep more than 2 hours) I chose the shorter tour.

My Istanbul walking tour included a trip to the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome with its various columns, and the Topkapi Palace. In addition, they offered breakfast as well as lunch. Some of the other tours include visits to the Grand Bazaar, Hagia Sophia, and the Galata Tower. If you happen to have your layover at night during the summer months you can even do a free Bosphorus cruise in Istanbul with dinner!

We started our tour with our tour guide Can who lead the way from the terminal to the bus station where our bus for the day was waiting. The drive from Istanbul airport to the city is at least 45 minutes depending on traffic which unfortunately meant for Can that I missed his introduction about the history of Istanbul in favor of a nap.

Once we arrived in Sultanahmet we started the day at our first stop: breakfast. Turkish breakfast staples with cheese, olives, and tea were waiting for us before we made our way to the Blue Mosque. Our visit was perfectly timed not to collide with prayer during which the mosque is closed for 90 minutes each time. Women have to cover their hair but if you don’t have your own scarf you can borrow one for free at the entrance. You will also need to take your shoes off during the visit and there are free plastic bags provided.

Unfortunately, the Blue Mosque is currently undergoing extensive renovations which entailed that none of the blue-tiled dome the mosque is famous for was visible. It was still an interesting visit as Can told us quite a bit about the mosque’s history and its significance for Muslims and the city of Istanbul.

From here the Hippodrome, the Obelisk of Theodosius and Serpentine Column were within walking distance. I will admit that this historic site came as a bit of a surprise – I didn’t realize how fascinating the history of Istanbul and its former inhabitants was nor how cool a single obelisk can be.

Our final stop was the Topkapi Palace which I had never been too. Here we had some free time to roam the courtyards and rooms, admire jewel-crusted daggers, golden thrones, and the view over the Bosphorus. Admittedly you could probably spend the whole day here and not get bored but I was happy enough to have an hour and catch a glimpse before lunch was calling us back.

Some salad, some kebab, and I had just enough time afterward to enjoy a cup of Turkish coffee in the sun before we were heading back to the airport – time flies when you visit Istanbul!

Another hourlong nap and we were back at arrivals and just in time as it started pouring as soon as I got into the building. I was glad to spend the rest of my Istanbul layover stuffing my face with rose and freshly made manti (tiny Turkish ravioli) in the Turkish Airlines lounge (which TK had graciously organized for me even though I was a mere economy class traveler) while watching Netflix. Mind you, the tour reminded me just how much I love Istanbul and that I need a lot longer stopover during my next trip!

Booking a free walking tour Istanbul with Turkish Airlines

You don’t actually need to book your Touristanbul tour. As long as you have an international ticket and a layover between 6 and 24 hours you are eligible and can just show your ticket at the Touristanbul/ Hotel Desk counter. All the tours are a combination of bus and walking tour and you can see the various stops, walking distance, time and days the tours are offered on the flyers they have as well as on the Turkish Airlines website here .

If you have valuables or larger hand luggage you can store it in a locker right next to the Touristanbul counter. Prices vary depending on the size between ₺ 40 and ₺ 60 for the day. There are plenty of ATMs in the arrival hall and especially if you are booking a tour with a visit to the Grand Bazaar it pays to have some cash on you as well as to tip your tour guide at the end.

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Free walkıng Tours

Old town tour / 10:30 am.

An excellent 2.5-hour walking tour where you can learn about the history of Istanbul and the Turks, see the most important buildings from the outside and some from the inside.

Alternative Tour / 2.30 pm

Close to the Sultanahmet area but in an area more off the beaten path, it is not about history but about the life, culture, marriage, education, military service and many other things related with the life today.

Top Sites in Small Group

Visit Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern and Grand Bazaar in 4 hours in a small group. Skip the line at the cistern. 60 Euros per person including entry fee of Cistern. Everday 10 am, Fridays 2 pm

Private Istanbul Tour

A great way to customize the itinerary, starting times of the tour. We can provide it for couples, families or for big groups. 4-5 Hours of Guiding.

Topkapi Palace with Boat Tour

Without queuing for tickets, you can visit Topkapi Palace with your expert guide and then explore the Bosphorus and Istanbul with a boat tour in a relaxing way.

Bosphorus Boat Tour

Have any questions? We are always open to talk about your business, new projects, creative opportunities and how we can help you.

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Alternative Istanbul

The former Constantinople, a cultural and religious melting pot, was a gigantic city, from Hagia Sophia to the city walls is as much as 5 kilometres in a straight line! And all this already existed in ancient times! Today’s Istanbul is still one of the largest cities in the world, with an official population of 16 million people. Despite this, most tourists do not visit anything but the strict city centre in Sultanahmet and the Grand Bazaar. They leave Istanbul now knowing much about modern Turkey, its people and their culture. This is a big mistake and our tour aim is to change that! Join us then to delve into places most tourists don’t visit and get an insight to the life of modern Istanbul!  

Colourful, noisy, full of flavours and smells, the Grand Bazaar is a remarkable place on a global scale and has been a temple of commerce for centuries long. But just behind it, spreads another temple – the temple of science – the oldest Turkish university. This will be our first point of interest. We will talk about the Turkish education system, regular life in Turkey and Turkish (in)religiosity. We will then visit a true pearl of Ottoman architecture – the Mosque of Suleiman the Magnificent. This grand building is definitely something you can’t miss while visiting Istanbul. Crownin one of the city’s seven hills, despite being a huge construction, it impresses everyone with its delicate beauty. 

From the mosque we will walk through the narrow streets, winding streets of Istanbul and finally get to an authentic bazaar, used only by the locals. A place where you buy not souvenirs and scarves, but tools, food, toys, electronics… The list is long! We’ll conclude our tour with a true spectacle for the eyes – at the Eminönü Square, by the waters of the Golden Horn, overlooking the majestic Galata Tower across the bay. 

Join our Alternative Istanbul tour for splendid views, great stories and joint discovering the true face of this remarkable city!

During this 2 hour 45 minute tour you will see and discover:

• Istanbul Universitesi
• Beyazit Square
• Corlulu Ali Pasa Madrasah
• the Old Book Bazaar Sahaflar Çarşısı
• Süleymaniye Mosque
• Rustem Pasha Mosque
• Spice Bazaar
• Galata Bridge
• Markets of Tahtakale and Mahmutpasa
• … and much, much more!

Haven’t done a tour of the main part of the old town with us yet? Join the Old Istanbul Tour , you won’t regret it!

Absolutely worth the time

We had a great guide. An Awesome discovering of the city with bunch of humour and a bit aside from the masses.

This tour is also available as a Private Tour.

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Free Tour in Istanbul

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Get your Free Tour in Istanbul and enjoy the best sightseeing tour in the city of two continents. Discover the history of the old city and appreciate great sights along with world-famous historical landmarks with entertaining and professional local tour guides.

• Reviews (145)

The Best Free Tour in Istanbul

Free Tour in Istanbul is a free walking tour of Istanbul’s old city center with a local expert tour guide every day at 10:30 am. This tour will give you a walk through the history as well as a look into the contemporary life in Istanbul.

• Wheelchair friendly tour

The Original Free Walking Tour in Istanbul

Free tour in Istanbul starts every day at 10:30 am next to the decorative pool which is between Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque at the Sultanahmet Square. Just look for our expert tour guides with red t-shirt and/or umbrella for free tours in the city! You can just show up at the meeting point if you prefer not to book ahead of time for free tours in Istanbul. Please come 15 minutes early if you have no reservation.

Free Walking Tour Istanbul  starts from    Sultanahmet Square  (next to the decorative pool) and ends in front of the   Little Hagia Sophia Mosque , overlooking the shores of the sea of Marmara.

During this tour, you will have the opportunity to explore the highlights and monuments of world city Istanbul and learn about the rich history and cultural heritage of Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman periods from our tour guide.

You will marvel at the impressive monumental structures of Istanbul such as Hagia Sophia ,   the Blue Mosque ,   the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpentine Column ,   the   Constantine Column  and   the   German Fountain. Later, you will walk through the outer gardens of   the Topkapi Palace  and marvel at this gorgeous palace as a symbol of the strength that the Ottoman Empire once had in the city.

While strolling through   Soğuk Çeşme Street with our local guide, you will also see and learn about the typical houses and locals and the old town architecture during the Ottoman era. At the end of this street, you will arrive at  Caferağa Madrasah , an art school where traditional Turkish crafts such as calligraphy, paper marbling, ceramics and tiles, and glass products are produced and sold. You will walk along the Hippodrome  and enter the courtyards of   the Blue Mosque .

Enjoying lots of amazing stories and personal anecdotes told by your expert tour guide about the city, you will visit the  Arasta Bazaar , a famous market place that used to provide the Blue Mosque with large income during the Ottoman Empire. Finally, the last stop of this fun experience will be the  Little Hagia Sophia Mosque.

Free Walking Tour in Istanbul

SIGHTS YOU WILL SEE IN FREE WALKING TOUR IN ISTANBUL 

• Sultanahmet Square
• Hagia Sophia
• The Blue Mosque
• Haseki Hurrem Bath
• The Egyptian Obelisk
• The Constantine Column
• The Serpentine Column
• German Fountain
• Soğuk Çeşme Street
• Caferağa Madrasa
• Arasta Bazaar
• Grand Bazaar
• The Little Hagia Sophia Mosque and much more …

Attention :  Everything listed here will be seen from outside without entering the museums.

Best Free Tour in İstanbul

Where does the free tour in istanbul start and end.

The tour starts from the Sultanahmet Square, next to the decorative pool. It ends in front of the Little Hagia Sophia Mosque.

How will I recognize the guide?

When you arrive at the meeting point, please look for our tour guides carrying a red umbrella.

Do I have to pre-book?

No. There is no need to pre-book for our free walking tours in Istanbul. Just come to the meeting point before the tour is due to begin. Yet, you are welcome to pre-book this Istanbul tour on our website. Recommendations; let us know in advance if you are coming with a big group (10+ people). If you are interested in personal tours and/or boat tours in the city, advance booking is required.

How long does the tour last?

Our free tour is approximately 2,5 hours.

Do you take any breaks on your free walking tours?

All of our Istanbul walking tours include a break during which you can rest and you will have the chance to use the washrooms and get a couple of drinks.

What is the price of this tour?

The tour is free. It does not cost anything. You are free to participate. At the end of the tour, you are free to tip your guide depending on your enjoyment of the service and budget.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Our tours in Istanbul run every day in all weather conditions, sun or rain. Please come prepared!

Are your tours suitable for children?

Our free walking tour of Istanbul are designed to be suitable for people of all ages and anyone.

Are your tours wheelchair-accessible?

Our free tour in İstanbul is wheelchair accessible. Bear in mind: We are always ready to arrange private tours geared towards the travelers’ needs and wishes!

Do you offer private Istanbul tours?

Yes. We offer private tours in English and Spanish languages. Please contact us for further information and details.

How do I find the group photo from my tour?

You can find your photos of your walking tours from our social media accounts.

Additional info: Our Istanbul walking tour is free of charge . We offer expert tour guides for our guests who wish to see the city on foot. In this way, they will explore the history of Istanbul and leave their footprints while feeling home thanks to our hospitality and care. Do not hesitate to leave your reviews regarding free Istanbul free tours.

What is the concept of Free Tour in Istanbul?

The Free Tour concept has been around for some time, but it is a fairly new method of exploring cities than the conventional tour model, with a far longer history. Most younger travelers today would probably be aware of free tours, as they have become extremely common and still present in major destinations especially in recent years.

Misconceptions about Free Tours

“Free” is an obvious appeal to budget-conscious travelers, but it is also a term that may trigger an alarm; especially in connection with anything that is typically very costly and constitutes a significant component of a specific industry, such as guided tours. Yet free does not mean that free tours are worthless. On the contrary, it is a philosophy that really does offer something enjoyable, worthwhile and satisfying for all kinds of travelers comparing to conventional paid tours.

How does it work?

One of the concerns regarding free tours is “How can tours be free?” ”. The tours are ‘free,’ as there is no fixed price, no defined charge to pay for the tour, irrespective of the tour experience itself. You are free to ‘tip’ your guide after the tour depending on your satisfaction.

This may be a “strange” notion, but there are many explanations why this kind of tour has become a successful and common way to explore towns and cities. Since the guides get no other money to lead such tours (from any particular company or agency), they must earn their tip. The income of the guides is always fluctuating from tour to tour and so they are eager to deliver a high-quality experience, which leaves much less space for complacency than if they were paid for a tour with a fixed amount. For the idea to work, the tour itself must be fantastic.

Tipping: Something to Think about on a Free Tour

Moreover, at the end of your tour, tipping your guide implies that you have the control. Though not mandatory, you determine what the tour’s worth is, or, what you can afford. You determine the price-performance ratio. So there is no risk of being ripped off or feeling that you have not got your money’s worth.

Advice for tips: If you decide to tip, be sure to bring your maximum tip budget to a smaller denomination. This way you can give your guide the right amount they are entitled to, determined by you (after the tour), without worrying about the tip being too little or offering a larger bill to ask the change back.

Behind the Free Tour

Tour guides weigh the risk factor because they count on tour participants to give them a tip, even if they do not have to do so. Fortunately, the growing popularity of free tours and the growing number of free tours providers worldwide is a proof that this “unconventional” style of tours work. People see the value in the concept, appreciate the unique experience it offers, realise they receive high quality tour experiences and tip their guides accordingly while saving much on their own.

Tour guides providing free tours are, in the great majority of cases, freelance tour guides. They are young people as free tours encourage them to operate freely and the guides keep their tips rather than getting charged a fee to gain an appropriate income for their efforts. These independent freelance guides often add their own style to their tours to give you a true local experience, show you their town and make your best trip.

The guide normally enhances the experiment instead of depending solely on a structured ‘tour’ or ‘script.’ This makes the experience of a place, history and culture more real, enthusiastic and rewarding. Some Free Tours in a particular city are arranged and managed by local guide collectives.

Alternatively, others are facilitated by free travel organizations that actively promote or assist independent local guides. This takes place in exchange for a fairly low advertisement charge through successful promotional services through a multitude of platforms and alliances, thus maintaining the consistent quality of guides and tours provided by them.

Why Free Tours Work

The whole idea of free tour is for the tourist and the local guide a win-win situation. Having authentic city tours open to all, irrespective of budget, are fun way to explore cities, while saving a lot of money and monitoring everything you spend on a city tour, apart from helping dedicated local guides and businesses.

145 reviews for Free Tour in Istanbul

Jonas – July 30, 2022

Great free tour and boat tour in English with Pilar! Easy and engaging explanations and the best recommendations. Thank you Pinar!

Tahra & Ismaël – August 2, 2022

Very good ***** Pinar was our guide for the Old Town tour as well as the trip to the Asian side. She was absolutely great. The given information was a good summary of Istanbul’s history. We loved her energy, anecdotes, daily tips and… humor 😄! If it’s your first time to Istanbul, we strongly recommand you to book this tour. Thank you Pinar for this experience and your thoughtfullness.

Sara – August 21, 2022

Highly recommended! Best way to have a quick viene of Istanbul and know the history behind the city..Thank to the guide Pinar, best tips and best jokes ever!!!

Tomislav – October 8, 2022

Pinar was awesome! Guiding us through the Old Town, sharing useful tips and tricks with funny remarks (and best jokes :D). Her energy when talking and presenting was contagious. She also remembered all of us and where we are from in under 2 hours. Really impressive. Went to a restaurant she recommended with a special deal, the food was great. We went for another tour with her on a boat. Props to Pinar!

Charlotte – May 10, 2023

We did this tour with Pinar which was amazing and very funny. We also did the lunch and the boat tour, we loved every minute and we visited everywhere she recommended the next day. Just 1 point which is we’re not here for religion or political rift stories. Other than that I would give it 5 stars.

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Free Tour in Istanbul: Exploring the City’s Hidden Gems

Table of Contents

Discover Istanbul for Free

Welcome to Istanbul, a city that effortlessly blends its rich historical heritage with a vibrant contemporary culture. If you’re a budget-conscious traveler seeking an enriching experience, you’re in luck! Istanbul offers an array of free tour options that allow you to explore its iconic landmarks, immerse yourself in its diverse neighborhoods, and soak up the city’s captivating atmosphere without breaking the bank. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll introduce you to the best choices of free tour in Istanbul and other exciting options to enhance your visit to this enchanting city.

Unveiling the Best Free Tour Experiences

When it comes to discovering Istanbul’s wonders, a free tour in Istanbul is an excellent choice. These tours, led by knowledgeable local guides, offer you the chance to delve into the heart and soul of the city while learning about its fascinating history. You’ll uncover the hidden gems that make Istanbul a true cultural treasure, from the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia and the majestic Blue Mosque to the lively Grand Bazaar and the atmospheric Sultanahmet Square.

Unmissable Attractions with Free Walking Tour Istanbul

If you enjoy exploring on foot, a free walking tour in Istanbul is the perfect way to soak up the city’s enchanting ambiance. Stroll through the charming streets of Sultanahmet, the historic heart of Istanbul, and marvel at the breathtaking architecture. Capture the mesmerizing views of the Bosphorus Strait and visit the magnificent Topkapi Palace, home to the Ottoman sultans. Don’t forget to explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Beyoglu and Kadikoy, where you’ll encounter trendy boutiques, bustling markets, and delectable street food.

Tailored Experiences Just for You

For a more personalized and flexible tour experience, consider hiring a private Istanbul guide. These knowledgeable locals will design an itinerary tailored to your interests, ensuring you get the most out of your visit. Whether you wish to delve deeper into Istanbul’s history, focus on its vibrant art scene, or indulge in its culinary delights, a private guide will accompany you every step of the way, providing valuable insights and insider tips.

Private Istanbul Tours

Embarking on a private Istanbul tour grants you exclusive access to the city’s hidden charms. Explore the lesser-known neighborhoods, such as Balat and Fener, where the colorful streets and quaint houses evoke a sense of nostalgia. Visit the charming Princes’ Islands, a tranquil oasis in the Sea of Marmara, and enjoy a leisurely bike ride or horse-drawn carriage tour. With a private guide by your side, you’ll unearth the lesser-explored facets of Istanbul, creating unforgettable memories.

Hop-On Hop-Off Istanbul

If you prefer a flexible sightseeing experience, the hop-on hop-off Istanbul bus tours are an excellent choice. These convenient buses traverse both the European and Asian sides of the city, allowing you to explore Istanbul’s major attractions at your own pace. Hop off at landmarks like the Galata Tower, Dolmabahçe Palace, and the iconic Istiklal Avenue. With multilingual audio commentary providing fascinating insights, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of Istanbul’s history and culture.

Istanbul Half-Day Tour

An Istanbul half-day tour is the ideal solution to make the most of your visit. These tours typically focus on the city’s highlights, allowing you to explore iconic sites like the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar in a condensed timeframe. With an expert guide leading the way, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Istanbul’s rich heritage and architectural wonders.

A Comprehensive Cultural Immersion

These comprehensive tours take you beyond the beaten path to discover lesser-known treasures, such as the charming neighborhoods of Uskudar and Kadikoy. Delve into the local culture by visiting vibrant street markets, sampling traditional delicacies, and engaging with friendly locals. Your guide will provide fascinating insights into Istanbul’s customs, traditions, and daily life.

Istanbul is a city that seamlessly blends the past with the present, offering a wealth of free tour options to suit every traveler’s preferences. Whether you choose a free tour Istanbul, a private tour with a knowledgeable guide, or a hop-on hop-off bus tour, you’re bound to uncover the city’s hidden gems and create lifelong memories. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the captivating Asian and European sides of Istanbul, indulge in its vibrant culinary scene, and immerse yourself in its rich cultural heritage. With so much to discover, Istanbul invites you to embark on an unforgettable journey that won’t strain your wallet.

Remember, the best way to truly experience Istanbul is to step off the beaten path and embrace the city’s local charm. Book your tour today and get ready to embark on an adventure that combines history, culture, and breathtaking beauty in the enchanting city of Istanbul. Discover Istanbul’s Hidden Gems with a Free Tour Experience

Istanbul, the mesmerizing metropolis straddling the continents of Europe and Asia, is a city brimming with rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. Exploring this magnificent city doesn’t have to break the bank, as there are plenty of free tour options available that offer an immersive experience. Whether you’re interested in historical landmarks, traditional markets, or breathtaking views, a free tour in Istanbul is the perfect way to discover the city’s hidden gems without spending a fortune. In this article, we’ll delve into the various free tour options in Istanbul, along with other exciting guided tours and day trips, ensuring you make the most of your visit to this captivating destination.

Unlocking the City’s Secrets

Embark on a journey through Istanbul’s fascinating history with a free tour of the city. The Free Tour Istanbul is a popular choice among budget-conscious travelers who want to explore the highlights of this enchanting destination without spending a dime. Led by knowledgeable local guides, these tours typically cover iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar. With an emphasis on historical and cultural insights, the Free Tour Istanbul offers an informative and immersive experience.

Exploring the Streets on Foot

Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Istanbul with a free walking tour. These guided tours allow you to discover the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, narrow alleys, and hidden corners that are often overlooked by traditional tourist routes. Led by experienced guides, free walking tours in Istanbul provide fascinating insights into the local culture, traditions, and lifestyle. As you stroll through the charming streets, you’ll encounter architectural marvels, local markets, and picturesque views that make Istanbul truly unique.

Tailored Experiences at Your Pace

For a more personalized and flexible tour experience, consider hiring a private Istanbul guide. These knowledgeable locals can customize an itinerary based on your interests, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace. Whether you’re intrigued by Byzantine history, Ottoman architecture, or Turkish cuisine, a private guide will cater to your preferences and provide in-depth information about the attractions you visit. While private tours usually come at a cost, they offer an invaluable opportunity to delve deeper into Istanbul’s rich heritage and create lasting memories.

Unforgettable Istanbul Tours: Beyond the Basics

Apart from the free and private tour options, Istanbul also offers many guided tours catering to different interests and preferences. If you need more time or want a comprehensive overview of the city, consider an Istanbul half-day tour or a hop-on-hop-off bus tour. These options provide a convenient way to explore the city’s top attractions, including the historical peninsula, lively neighborhoods, and scenic viewpoints. With informative commentary and the flexibility to choose your own itinerary, these tours ensure you make the most of your time in Istanbul.

Exploring Beyond the City Limits

While Istanbul itself has an abundance of sights to offer, venturing beyond the city limits unveils a whole new world of exploration. Numerous day trips are available from Istanbul, allowing you to discover nearby destinations of historical and natural significance. From the tranquil Princes’ Islands to the ancient ruins of Ephesus, these day trips offer a break from the city’s hustle and bustle. Whether you prefer cultural immersions, outdoor adventures, or a mix of both, the diverse range of day trips from Istanbul caters to every traveler’s desires.

Istanbul Holiday Packages: All-in-One Experiences

If you want a hassle-free and comprehensive Istanbul experience, consider opting for an Istanbul holiday package. These packages typically include accommodation, transportation, guided tours, and sometimes even meals, offering a seamless travel experience. With the convenience of a pre-planned itinerary, you can focus on enjoying your time in Istanbul without worrying about logistics. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a food lover, or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, Istanbul holiday packages provide a convenient way to make the most of your vacation.

A free tour in Istanbul is a fantastic way to explore the city’s iconic landmarks, immerse yourself in its vibrant culture, and discover hidden treasures without straining your budget. Whether you choose a free walking tour, hire a private guide, or opt for a guided tour or day trip, Istanbul offers a variety of options to suit every traveler’s preferences. From historical sites to bustling markets, scenic neighborhoods, and breathtaking views, the city promises an unforgettable experience.

Remember, while free tours provide an excellent starting point, consider supporting your local guide with a tip or participating in additional paid tours to contribute to their livelihood. With the many tour options available, you can create a truly memorable and immersive journey through the captivating city of Istanbul, cherishing the beauty, culture, and history that await at every turn.

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Free tour - what does it mean.

Le migliori cose da fare a Istanbul

Istanbul, la capitale della Turchia, è una delle destinazioni più intriganti del pianeta , in quanto la sua geografia la rende un interessante incrocio tra Oriente e Occidente. Fu inizialmente chiamata Bisanzio e successivamente fu cambiata in Costantinopoli prima di essere ribattezzata come l'attuale Istanbul, una mecca economica e culturale e anche la città più popolata del paese. Istanbul è stata una posizione strategica per diversi imperi nel corso della sua storia, come quello romano, bizantino o ottomano. Con questa storia, la città gode di una ricca storia culturale e architettonica.

 A Istanbul, i tour gratuiti si svolgono ogni giorno, in diversi momenti della giornata, dalla mattina al pomeriggio e alla sera, così puoi adattarti e conoscere la città al tuo ritmo. Puoi anche scegliere tra diversi tour in diverse lingue che ti porteranno in diversi monumenti o quartieri di Istanbul. La prenotazione del tour è gratuita e puoi fare tutti i tour che desideri mentre sei lì.

 I guru vengono recensiti da altri escursionisti che hanno fatto i loro tour a piedi liberi e le loro opinioni sono tutte scritte in modo di facile lettura online. Se vuoi conoscere i luoghi iconici di Istanbul come il Grand Bazaar di Istanbul, la Cattedrale di Hagia Sofia, il quartiere di Uskudar, il Bosforo di Istanbul e informazioni sui suoi giri in barca, la Torre di Galata e le sue incredibili viste sulla città, la Moschea Blu, l'Hamam Aga Hamami, il Palazzo Topkapi e molti altri, non puoi perdere l'occasione di fare uno di questi incredibili tour a piedi gratuiti che ti faranno scoprire il fascino nascosto di questa città dove l'Oriente incontra l'Occidente.

 Se desideri prenotare tour gratuiti in altre città turche, controlla i tour disponibili ad Antalya , Mardin o Midyat.

Free tour vicino a Istanbul

Altre città da visitare dopo istanbul, trova altri guruwalk a istanbul, dove state viaggiando.