- Explore the historic Yedikule Fortress with included entrance.
- Stroll through Istanbul’s vibrant Galata and Beyoğlu districts.
- Visit iconic religious sites: Mevlevi Lodge, St. Anthony & St. Antuan Churches.
- Discover the colorful streets of Balat, full of culture and charm.
- Hotel Pick up and Drop off (From Central Hotels)
- English guiding Service during the tour
- Entrance fee for Yedikule Castle
- Transportation by air-conditioned non-smoking tour coaches
- Parking and Road tolls
- Local taxes and service charges
- Personal expenses
- Entrance fees for Galata Tower and Galata Mevlevi Museum
- Optional Istanbul Day Tours & Istanbul Night Tours
- Drinks during lunch on the boat
- This tour is not operated on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
- Exact pickup time will be given at the time of booking.
- You are kindly requested to present yourself at the pickup point 15 minutes prior to the pre-advised pickup time.
- Comfortable shoes and a hat is recommended as shade is limited in summertime.
- The order of the tour itinerary may vary in order to avoid congestion.
- The entrance fees for Galata Tower and Galata Mevlevi Museum can be paid while you are on the tour.
Half-Day Istanbul Highlights Tour
Explore the cultural contrasts of Istanbul in just a few hours! This half-day guided tour combines the city’s rich history with its vibrant modern character. Perfect for travelers short on time but big on curiosity.
Hotel Pickup
We will pick you up from your centrally located hotel (Taksim, Sultanahmet, Karaköy, Sirkeci, or Galata areas) at around 08:00 AM with our air-conditioned vehicle. Your English-speaking guide will accompany you throughout the tour.
Yedikule Fortress (Entrance Included)
Start your journey with a scenic drive along Istanbul’s ancient city walls to the historic Yedikule Fortress. You’ll enter the fortress and explore its impressive towers, underground dungeons, and panoramic views over the Sea of Marmara. Your guide will bring to life its fascinating past from the Byzantine era to the Ottoman Empire.
Galata District & St. Antoine Church
Continue to Galata, one of Istanbul’s most iconic neighborhoods. Visit the impressive St. Antoine Church, the largest Roman Catholic church in Istanbul, still active today. Enjoy the nostalgic streets and cafés of Beyoğlu on foot.
Galata Tower (Optional – Entrance Not Included)
Admire this iconic landmark from the outside and snap some great photos.
If you wish, you can enter by paying the entrance fee and enjoy a stunning panoramic view of Istanbul from the top.
Galata Mevlevi Lodge Museum (Optional – Entrance Not Included)
End the walking portion of the tour with a visit to the Galata Mevlevihanesi (Mevlevi Sufi Lodge), the first dervish lodge in Istanbul, now serving as a museum of Sufi culture.
Balat Colorful Streets
Next, discover the charming streets of Balat, known for its colorful houses, local artisan shops, and photo-worthy alleys.
- Colorful Ottoman-era houses: Stroll through vibrant streets filled with beautifully painted historic homes.
- Local artisan cafés and vintage shops: Discover hidden gems, handmade crafts, and authentic neighborhood life.
- Multicultural heritage sites: See traces of Greek Orthodox churches, Armenian buildings, and old synagogues.
Tour Ending Around 13:00
After exploring the cultural gems of Istanbul, the tour concludes around 13:00. You may choose to stay in the area for further exploration, or we can drop you off at your central hotel.
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