ABOUT FREE TOUR ISTANBUL

Free Tour Istanbul starts in the heart of the old city of Istanbul. The meeting point is next to the decorative pool situated between Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque at the Sultanahmet Square at 10:30 every day. Just come to the meeting 10 minutes before the tour starts!

The tour finishes in front of the Little Hagia Sophia Mosque.

Look out for the red umbrellas at the meeting point. Our guides in red with red umbrellas will be waiting for you by the decorative pool at the Sultanahmet Square. The free walking tours of Istanbul run every day in all weather conditions.

Free Tour Istanbul covers many of Istanbul’s major landmarks, including Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome, and the outer gardens of Topkapi Palace.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE TOUR

Marvel at the iconic Hagia Sophia, an ancient Byzantine structure
See the stunning Blue Mosque and hear about its legends
Visit the outer garden of the Topkapi Palace and learn about the Ottoman History
Discover the city’s Byzantine heritage with the famous Hippodrome monuments
Walk along the Sogukcesme Street and see the picturesque Ottoman houses
Visit Caferaga Madrasa and learn about the traditional art of paper marbling

What’s included

Professional English-speaking guide
Istanbul city map

What’s not included

Tips
Hotel pick-up and drop-off

DISCOVER THE BEAUTIES OF THE CITY ON FREE TOUR ISTANBUL

Istanbul is a city like no other. The stunning weather, the breathtaking views of Bosphorus, the incredible architecture, and an amazing history make Istanbul a unique city. It’s no surprise that each year millions of people from all over the world visit Istanbul to discover the beauties this magical city offers. Join us on our free walking tour of Istanbul and get an introduction to this fascinating city. Free Tour Istanbul will make your trip to Istanbul more exciting and memorable.

Marvel at the remains of Ottoman Empire in Istanbul

During your free tour of Istanbul, you will take a step back in time while learning about the Ottoman Empire and witnessing its splendor. You will hear the stories and legends about the Blue Mosque which is famous for not only its 6 minarets but also the blue color that dominates its interior design. One of the stops of your free tour is the beautiful outer garden of the Topkapi Palace. This palace served as the main residence and administrative headquarter of the Ottoman Empire for almost 400 years. Here, you will hear more colorful stories about the Ottoman dynasty than all television series you have watched about the Ottomans put together.

On free tour Istanbul, you will stroll along the Sogukcesme Street, famous for its traditional Ottoman houses. Caferaga Madrasah is another stop during your free walking tour of Istanbul. While relaxing in the colorful garden of the madrasah, you will learn about the chief master of the Ottoman Empire, Mimar Sinan. You might also observe Coskun, known as Josh, doing Ebru, the traditional art of paper marbling in this 16^th century art school. If you are lucky in the raffle, you might go home with one of his beautiful works of calligraphy.

Witness the Byzantine Heritage in Istanbul

Istanbul had been the capital city of the Byzantine Empire for more than 1000 years. On the original Istanbul free tour, you will see some of the monumental structures of the Byzantine Empire. You will marvel at the Hagia Sophia, known as the Holy Wisdom, and hear about its secrets and history. This iconic building is now a mosque. You will get the chance to get inside of the Hagia Sophia accompanied by your free tour guide except on Fridays.

The Hippodrome was the center of Byzantine life for many years. During your free tour of Istanbul, you will marvel at the famous Hippodrome monuments. Your free tour guide will explain you all about the Serpent Column, Obelisk of Theodosius, and the Walled Obelisk. The German Fountain, an octagonal domed fountain constructed by the German government, is also located in the Hippodrome area, right in front of the spectacular Blue Mosque.

Learn about life in today’s Istanbul

Free Tour Istanbul is not just about history. Along with the historical facts and stories, your free tour guide will also share insider tips on life in today’s Istanbul. Free walking tour in Istanbul offers an excellent chance to learn about how to get around the city yourself. You will find essential information on public transportation, bank holidays, free attractions, parks and gardens of the city, shopping streets as well as less known places of Istanbul where you will get the best viewpoints for your social media posts.

Istanbul is a land of delicious food, rich sweets and strong teas. There are many flavors and spices that you would like to try. You will get insider tips on where to find the best food at the most affordable price.