Istanbul Layover Tour

Airport pickup at Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gökçen

Your layover tour begins in the arrivals hall, where your driver waits with your name after you have cleared passport control. We serve both Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen (SAW), so send us your flight details when you book and we plan the day from your landing time to your next departure.

The drive to Sultanahmet takes about an hour in normal traffic from Istanbul Airport and often longer at rush hour, so a private car with a driver who knows the roads is the safest way to protect your connection. Keep your hand luggage light, as your driver can look after bags in the vehicle.

Sultanahmet: Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque

Sultanahmet is the historic heart of the old city and the natural focus of an Istanbul layover tour, because its main landmarks stand within walking distance of each other. Hagia Sophia, built in the sixth century as a Byzantine cathedral and later an imperial mosque, is famous for its enormous dome and its mosaics. Entry arrangements and opening times around prayers can change.

Opposite it stands the Blue Mosque, finished in 1616 and known for its six minarets and the blue Iznik tiles inside. Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered, and carry a scarf, because both are working mosques. With a short layover these two sights alone make a full and memorable visit, and your driver collects you when you finish.

Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cistern

If your layover is long enough, Topkapi Palace is the best next stop. It was the main residence of the Ottoman sultans for nearly four hundred years, and its courtyards, treasury and terraces over the Bosphorus show imperial life in detail. The palace is closed on Tuesdays, so tell us your travel day early and we adjust the plan.

The Basilica Cistern is a sixth-century underground water reservoir with rows of marble columns rising from still water and two Medusa head column bases. It is cool, atmospheric and quick to visit, usually about an hour, which makes it a good fit for a short transit. Both places are optional, and entrance tickets are paid separately.

The Grand Bazaar for souvenirs

The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, with its first buildings dating to the fifteenth century. Its covered lanes hold shops selling carpets, ceramics, lamps, jewellery, spices and Turkish delight, and the architecture is part of the attraction.

It is an optional stop for travellers who want a souvenir before flying on. The bazaar is closed on Sundays and on public holidays, so check your day of travel with our desk. Allow time to browse without rushing, and remember to keep a safe margin for your return drive to the airport.

Galataport and Ortaköy on the Bosphorus

Galataport is the modern waterfront at Karaköy, where the old cruise terminal has become a promenade with shops, galleries and restaurants beside the strait. It makes a fine contrast to the old city and a relaxed place to watch ships pass if you have a little time to spare.

Ortaköy, on the European shore beneath the Bosphorus Bridge, is the classic last stop, with the Mecidiye Mosque on the water and views of the bridge that photographers love. Optional street snacks include kumpir, the stuffed baked potato, and sweet waffles. Both stops are flexible, and the driver drops them if time is short.