Private Istanbul full-day sightseeing tour

Recommend stops

Istanbul is a living and breathing mosaic of different cultures, both in a contemporary and historical sense. The distinctive marks of various cultures are still present throughout the city with countless structures, museums, landmarks, and more. If you want to spend a full day seeing some of the most famous places in Istanbul, the Full-day Sightseeing Tour can be a great choice.

The Full-day Sightseeing Tour package includes the below steps, but you can customise your trip by letting your driver know which places you want to see. Your driver will be knowledgeable about the areas you will be visiting, so you can also ask him for a little info about each of your stops along the way. At the same time, you can enjoy the city from the comfort of your private vehicle, use the complimentary WiFi and enjoy snacks and refreshments during the ride.

Your driver will be waiting for you in the vehicle during each visit to the below steps.

1. The Pick-up

Your designated driver will pick you up from your desired location and you will head to your first stop.

2. Chora Museum

Originally built as a monastery in the year 534, Chora Museum was subjected to many modifications throughout history. Turned into a church and afterwards a museum, the structure houses some of the finest mosaic works of art in late Byzantine history. While there have been talks about turning the historical structure into a mosque for a long time, there has been no official project or comment on the subject.

3. Pierre Loti Hill

Named after the French author, Pierre Loti Hill is arguably the best spot to enjoy the scenery of the Golden Horn. It is said that the coffee shop situated on the hill was regularly visited by the famous author, where he also wrote many of his books.

4. Spice Market

Built-in 1664, the Spice Market is one of the most colourful shopping centres in Istanbul. With a seemingly infinite variety of spices, Turkish delights, nuts, and dried fruits, the market is a great spot to learn new tastes and acquire authentic ingredients. There’s also a vast variety of jewellers, gift shops, and cloth sellers.

If you want to take a trip back in time and experience the Ottoman bazaar culture, Spice Market is a great place to visit.

5. Drive to Dolmabahce Palace through the Galata bridge

Built-in the 19th century, Dolmabahce is considered one of the most beautiful and grandiose palaces in the world. The palace was used as a headquarters for state affairs but later on, it also acted as a residence for the Ottoman sultans.

The Galata bridge offers one of the most iconic sceneries in Istanbul with a panoramic view of the majestic Golden Horn in all its glory, as well as a view of the Blue Mosque.

6. Lunch Break

After Dolmabahce Palace, you will have a lunch break in one of the local options; your driver will have a list of recommended restaurants for you. If you have a place in mind, your driver will be happy to take you to your place of choice.

7. Drive to the Asian Side of Istanbul through the Bosporus bridge

The next stop will be the Asian side. You will take the Bosporus bridge, where you can enjoy the beauty of Bosporus and the magical silhouette of Istanbul.

8. Kadikoy Square and market or Camlica Hill

Kadikoy is considered the social centre of the Asian Side. The district is home to many mosques and churches that can be visited as well as a beautiful shoreline: Moda. You can also find a wide range of restaurants, pubs, cafes, and shops in the square and marketplace.

One of the most popular touristic places in the Asian Side of Istanbul, Camlica Hill has an astonishing view of the Bosporus as well as a great botanical park. There are also cafes and restaurants where you can eat and drink while enjoying the sight of Istanbul.

9. Drive back

After you visit Asian Side, your driver will take you to your place of choice to end the tour.

Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Private car
Free WIFI
English speaking & knowledgeable driver
All taxes and fees
Water and snacks for all passenger
Fuel and tolls

Entrance fees to all attractions
Official tour guide (our drivers have local knowledge of the places visited, but they do not tour guides)
Tips and gratuities

Make sure to check the weather forecast and wear suitable and comfortable clothing and shoes
You may want to take sunscreen with you if your tour date forecast is sunny
It is recommended to have local currency as local shops and merchants may not accept Euro or credit cards
Let us know if you have any special requirements and we will plan your tour to suit your needs

What is the process after booking?

Following your booking, you will receive a confirmation email. You will also receive a second mail 1-2 days prior to your journey, containing your driver’s details and pick-up/drop-off information. You can always reach out to us via email or phone if you have additional questions.

Can my pick-up and drop-off places be different?

Yes, though there may be additional charges for certain places such as airports. Detailed info will be provided during the booking process.

Can we stop by a restaurant, café or an additional attraction that we come across along the way?

Of course, the tour is fully customisable during the ride.

What is the cancellation policy?

We provide a 100% refund on cancellations up to 24 hours before the tour date and time.

Can our driver join our visit to attractions and tell us about the places we see?

While our drivers have local knowledge of the areas of visit, they are not qualified tour guides. The drivers will readily wait for you in the vehicle while you visit attractions.