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Free tour

Lost in the GRAND Bazaar, Found in Süleymaniye Sunset

5.00
Excellent(3)
Duration: 2 hours
Languages: English
PRO
Registered on 15 December 2023
Guru Avatar Image
We are three licensed tour guides with a background in history and archaeology. We were born in Istanbul, raised in Istanbul, and educated in tourist guiding in Istanbul. Our passion is to guide you through the captivating journey of Turkish culture and cuisine. We will provide you with opportunities to enjoy the magnificence of experiencing the depths of Istanbul, which is the threshold of three main civilizations: Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman.
Free reservation and cancellation
Pay-what-you-want tour, no set price, reservation and cancellation are free

Tour description

Tour Details

Ready to get lost? 

Don’t worry, I’ll find you again – right in the heart of Istanbul! 

This walking tour is all about discovering the soul of the city: the magical Grand Bazaar (where even Google Maps gets confused 🤯) and the magnificent Süleymaniye Mosque with its million-dollar view (don’t worry, it’s free). 

Along the way, we’ll explore secret courtyards, hidden hans, and chat with local shopkeepers who have more stories than Netflix. You’ll smell the spices, taste the sweets, and maybe even learn how  to bargain when buying a carpet or a art pieces like tiles (pro tip: don’t lose your guide or they will definitely sell you one :) !).



1. Çemberlitaş Column (Column of Constantine)

 
“Where the Roman Empire once had its Google Maps pin!” 🏛️
 We’ll start at this ancient column, built by Emperor Constantine himself in the 4th century. It has seen fires, crusaders, sultans… and now you!
 

2. Nuruosmaniye Mosque

 
“The Baroque side of Istanbul.” ⛪
 One of the first Ottoman Baroque mosques – elegant, light-filled, and often overlooked. Perfect spot to understand how East met West in architecture.
 


 

3. Grand Bazaar

 
“Where losing yourself is part of the fun.” 🛍️
 Get ready for 4,000+ shops, endless carpets, spices, lamps, jewelry… and stories behind them. Don’t worry – I’ll show you the quieter corners and secret hans where the real magic happens.


4. Sahaflar Çarşısı (Book Bazaar)

 
“Where books smell older than your grandparents’ vinyl collection.” 📚
 A hidden gem for book lovers! We’ll stroll through the historic book bazaar, once home to scholars, poets, and now quirky little shops. 


 

5. Süleymaniye Mosque & Complex

 
“The crown jewel of Mimar Sinan.” 🌅
 We’ll finish at Istanbul’s most majestic mosque, perched above the Golden Horn. The view? Absolutely Instagram-worthy. The stories? Even better – sultans, architects, and the daily life of old Istanbul.










Highlights

What will we see on this tour?

Meeting point:
Mollafenari, Yeniçeriler Cd. No:, 34120 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
I will be holding a yellow umbrella in front of the Çemberlitaş Column which is near the Çemberlitaş Tram Station
1
Outside visit
Çemberlitaş
The meeting point is under the Çemberlitaş Column. ı will be waiting with my yellow umbrella
2
Outside visit
Nuruosmaniye Mosque
European style Mosque
3
Outside visit
Historical Beyazıt Book Store
We will be walking through the dusty papers of history of Istanbul
Tour map

How much does this tour cost?

Free tours do not have a set price, instead, each person gives the guru at the end the amount they consider appropriate (amounts usually range from €15 to $50 depending on satisfaction with the tour).

Tour reviews

5.00
Excellent(3)
Generic
3
0
0
0
0
By category
Professionalism
5.00
Fun
5.00
Communication
5.00
Quality
5.00
Route
5.00

Who is this tour for?

Accessibility
Suitable for people with reduced mobility.
Groups
Accepts bookings of up to 21 people.
Pets
Suitable for bringing pets.

What should I know?

Minimum attendees
Does not require a minimum number of people to conduct the tour.
Additional costs
The tour does not require payment for entries or additional expenses.
Free cancellation
If you cannot attend the tour, please cancel the reservation, otherwise the guide will be waiting for you.
Payment methods
Cash payment only.
Lost in the GRAND Bazaar, Found in Süleymaniye Sunset
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