The Magnificent Ottomans

“Istanbul Tour Studio was thoroughly professional, reliable, and accommodating. They did everything as promised. We went on three tours. “One day” on the day we arrived. Son and daughter-in-law joined us for Magnificent Ottomans. We saw a great deal in not that much time without feeling rushed. It was like seeing Istanbul with a truly talented teacher. I can’t believe how much I learned, how much I remember and how much fun it was.  ” Read more on Tripadvisor

The Magnificent Ottomans

Our Magnificent Ottomans tour is designed to give you a comprehensive and rich perspective to explore the city’s glorious Ottoman past. As one of the longest-lasting empires in world history, ruling over large areas of Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa for more than 600 years, the Ottomans had enough reason to revel in the effects of such power. The empire turned Istanbul into an epicenter of culture, with some of the world’s greatest architecture, gastronomy, and decorative arts. 

We will take you on a journey through this glorious past, visiting iconic landmarks and historical monuments such as Topkapi Palace Museum, Süleymaniye Mosque and the Spice Bazaar. You will learn about the profound culture and traditions of the Ottomans. 

Along the way, you’ll also get an insight into their architecture, cuisine, art and literature. Needless to say you will enjoy a traditional Turkish tea or coffee at one of Istanbul's oldest coffee houses. At the end of the tour, you’ll have a greater appreciation for Istanbul and its long-standing relationship with the Ottomans. So if you’re ready to explore one of the most historic cities in the world, join us on our private guided tour and learn about its magnificent Ottoman heritage. 

Highlights

Süleymaniye Mosque and Complex: This magnificent structure is the most adored and largest masterpiece of the famed Ottoman architect Sinan in Istanbul. It is a signature of the city and since the day of its construction in 1557 it has ruled over the cityscape observed from the Golden Horn and Bosphorus. In this vast mosque complex, there is a medrese, soup kitchen, hospital, caravanserai, library, bazaar, and several tombs. Some of these facilities are still in use today. Notable are the tombs of Sultan Suleiman I and his wife , Haseki Hürrem, (also known as Roxelana). Both are impressive; inlaid with precious metals, stones and stained glass.

Rüstem Pasha Mosque: Built around 1563 by Mimar Sinan, this hidden gem of a mosque is situated right behind the Eminönü square and some describe it as a miniature Blue Mosque, however without the crowds. The ornate world of its interior is characterized by an astounding diversity of beautiful Iznik tiles. 

Stroll through the birthplace of Turkish coffee culture and coffee break at a traditional inn. 

Spice Bazaar: Built in 1664, this is one of the most colorful and aromatic places in the city. Today, this historic bazaar is still home to a wide range of spices, Turkish delights, dried fruits, nuts, and more. You can sit down for lunch at the century of & famous Pandeli Restaurant if you'd like - which is located right above the main entrance of Spice Bazaar.

Topkapi Palace Museum and Harem: This was the main residence and administrative headquarters of the Ottoman sultans between the 15th and 19th centuries. Built during the 1460s, soon after the conquest of Constantinople by the Ottomans, it is an interconnected complex, rather than a single structure filled with Ottoman treasures. The Harem is the most inaccessible part of the palace, given that the more than 400 rooms housed the sultan’s mother, wives, concubines, and the rest of the sultan’s family and their servants.

Haseki Hürrem Turkish Hamam: You will see the hamam from the outside and learn about the famous Turkish hamam culture, the quintessential Turkish beauty experience.

Important Notes:

• Topkapi Palace Museum and Harem are closed on Tuesdays. Therefore we do not conduct this tour on Tuesdays.
• If time and your energy permit, a visit to Grand Bazaar can be added to the program.
• We kindly remind our female guests to bring a headscarf or pashmina to cover their head and shoulders when visiting a mosque.
  
• If you wish you can end the day with a full Turkish hamam experience. Please contact us at [email protected] or call us at +90 212 243 05 21 to make a reservation.

Who is this tour for?

• Anyone interested in history and architecture
• Anyone who wants to learn about one of the world’s most intriguing empires. By focusing on this spectacular era of Istanbul’s history, we go beyond the sights to introduce you to Istanbul’s multilayered and multicultural past. 

Why book with Istanbul Tour Studio?

• We’ve worked with academics and historians to design a comprehensive tour that provides the perfect introduction to Istanbul’s Ottoman past.
• Istanbul Tour Studio is rated "Excellent" on Tripadvisor. Click to read the latest reviews about us.
• We have a great team: knowledgeable, trustworthy, friendly and always on time.

How much is the private Magnificent Ottomans tour per person?

• Our private Magnificent Ottomans tour is $195 USD/person for two people ($390 USD total), plus 20% VAT, bringing the total to $468 USD. Please be assured that our tour rates include all entrance tickets, including those for the Topkapi Palace Museum & Harem Apartments, so you won’t incur any additional costs.
• Our prices are quoted per person, and we require a minimum of two participants to organize this private tour. For private tours for one person, please contact us for customized pricing.
• As the size of your private group increases, the per-person cost decreases: $195 USD/person for two people, $175 USD/person for three people, $160 USD/person for four people, $150 USD/person for five people, $140 USD/person for six people. Dynamic pricing is applied automatically during the booking process based on your group size. For groups larger than six people or additional customization, please contact us directly.
• Children aged 6 and under join for free. 
• The listed prices are for a walking tour. If you're staying in Beşiktaş, Beyoğlu (Taksim), or Karaköy, public transportation options such as tram, ferry, or taxi will cost an additional $15–$25 USD.
• Private transportation in a luxury Mercedes van with a professional driver is available for $300 USD/day, plus 20% VAT.

 Contact us for more information