Istanbul Old City Private Walking Tour: Hagia Sophia & Bazaar

Summary

Discover Istanbul’s Historic Heart on Foot with a Local Guide

You’ll walk Istanbul’s old streets with a local expert who knows every shortcut and story. See world-famous sites like Hagia Sophia and Grand Bazaar up close—and get real insight into daily life here.

What’s the experience like?

The day started right outside my hotel door—our guide, Emre, was already waiting at 9 sharp, grinning and waving. We set off through Sultanahmet as the city was just waking up; you could smell simit baking somewhere nearby and hear the tram clattering in the distance. First stop: the Blue Mosque. I’d seen photos before, but stepping inside with socks on (shoes off!) and seeing those blue Iznik tiles up close—well, it’s different in person. Emre pointed out tiny details I’d never have noticed alone, like the way sunlight hits the mihrab around mid-morning.

Hagia Sophia was next—just across the square. The line looked long but moved fast; inside it felt cool and a little musty, with echoes bouncing off ancient marble. Emre shared stories about its time as both church and mosque. We wandered over to Caferaga Medresesi after that—a quieter spot where artists were setting up for a calligraphy class (the smell of fresh Turkish coffee drifted from the courtyard café). In between stops, we paused by the Serpent Column—honestly easy to miss if you’re not looking for it—and then made our way to Topkapi Palace. The treasury rooms were packed but worth squeezing through for a look at those emeralds.

Lunch was simple but good—lentil soup and kebab at a tucked-away lokanta Emre recommended (I wish I remembered the name). After lunch, we dove into the Grand Bazaar. It’s loud, colorful, and kind of overwhelming at first; shopkeepers call out in every language you can think of. I picked up some apple tea after haggling (badly) with a friendly vendor named Murat. By late afternoon my feet were tired but my head was full of stories—and we finished back at my hotel just before evening traffic hit.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Istanbul Old City Highlights

• Blue Mosque visit
• Hagia Sophia tour
• Caferaga Madrasa visit
• Sultanahmet District walk
• Serpent Column stop
• Topkapi Palace tour
• Grand Bazaar shopping

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for kids or older travelers?

The route is mostly flat but involves quite a bit of walking. Strollers are fine for little ones; however, it may be tough for those with mobility issues.

What happens if Topkapi Palace is closed?

If it's Tuesday or during certain holidays when Topkapi is closed, you'll visit Basilica Cistern instead—another fascinating site nearby.

Are meals included?

Yes! A Turkish lunch is part of your day—usually at a local spot chosen by your guide for authentic flavors.

Do I need to bring cash for entrance fees or shopping?

Your entrance fees are covered, but you might want some cash or card handy for souvenirs or snacks in the bazaar.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pick-up and drop-off in central Istanbul, all entrance fees to main attractions (like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace), Turkish lunch at a local eatery, plus your own expert guide who’ll share stories and help you navigate every stop.