Free tours in Istanbul
Offering you 106 tours in Istanbul, Turkey
23,272 Reviews in Istanbul
What language is the tour in?
Most free tours in Istanbul are in English, but some guides also offer routes in Spanish or other languages. You can check this and any other detailed information when booking on the tour description page.
Is the tour suitable for families and elderly visitors?
Yes, each route is selected by the guide taking into account the convenience of all participants, including families with children and the elderly, but you should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for small climbs. It is also important to have drinking water and sun protection.
What happens if it rains?
Tours are held in any weather, so we recommend taking an umbrella or raincoat. In case of heavy rain, the guide can change the route, making it more comfortable.
How can visitors experience Istanbul's vibrant street food scene?
Guides will tell you about the main gastronomic streets and give advice on where to try simit, kebab, or mussels with rice and other popular snacks.
Where's the best place to try traditional Turkish coffee in Istanbul?
After the tour, guides often recommend cafes in the Karakoy or Eminonu districts, where coffee is prepared according to ancient recipes in copper cezves on hot sand. You are unlikely to forget this taste.
Discover the Essence of Istanbul on Foot
Istanbul is a city where East meets West, history intertwines with modernity, and ancient mosques and bazaars coexist with stylish cafes and galleries. Travelers from all over the world flock here to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of a metropolis, where every corner holds its own history. If you are looking for an unforgettable vacation, you should definitely pay attention to the free walking tour in Istanbul to feel the true rhythm of this unique city.
Must-See Attractions on Your Istanbul City Walk
Walking tours are the perfect way to get to know the main attractions of a city. Guides usually show popular places and share stories that you won’t find in guidebooks. Let’s find out which places you should pay attention to first.
Hagia Sophia – A Testament to Time
Hagia Sophia is one of the most significant religious buildings in the world. First a Christian basilica, then a mosque, then a museum – now a functioning mosque again. Its domes, mosaics, and rich history reflect centuries of Byzantine and Ottoman heritage. Entry is free, so you definitely shouldn’t miss this place when planning your route.
Blue Mosque – Architectural Harmony
The Blue Mosque, officially known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is a sight to behold with its six minarets and blue and white tiles. It is a working religious building but is open to tourists during certain hours. It is also free to visit, but it is worth noting that a dress code is required.
Topkapi Palace – Ottoman Grandeur
Topkapi is the residence of the sultans, where you can see Ottoman treasures, ancient weapons, as well as dishes, and even the alleged robe of the Prophet Muhammad. The entrance fee is 500 Turkish lira (about $13), and there is an additional fee for entering the harem.
Grand Bazaar – A Labyrinth of Treasures
One of the largest covered markets in the world, with thousands of stalls selling carpets, spices, jewelry, and souvenirs. Even if you're not in the mood for shopping, it's worth a stroll through the streets for the atmosphere.
Basilica Cistern – The Underground Wonder
The Basilica Cistern is an underground water reservoir from the Byzantine era. There you can see columns, atmospheric lighting, and the mythical head of Medusa. It is also worth noting that this is a great way to escape the summer heat. The entrance fee is about 450 Turkish lira ($12).
Practical Information and Tourist Tips
Istanbul walking tours are held daily, most often in the morning (at 10:00) and in the afternoon (at 14:00). In high season, you can also find tours in the evening, especially in popular tourist areas such as Sultanahmet or Galata.
Tours are most often conducted in English but are also available in Spanish, German, and French. Our guides are professionals and enthusiasts - locals with a deep knowledge of the city.
To find out the details of the routes and their duration, we recommend choosing the Istanbul city tour you are interested in on the FREETOUR.com website. You can easily book a tour in a few clicks on the description page. You can also read reviews from tourists who have already been on our tours:
Free Tour of Istanbul by Viaurbis Tours
“Had a brilliant tour with Pinar our guide. She was informative, funny, and interesting. She gave us lots of tips and useful information about things to do and avoid. Morning well spent.”
Istanbul Adventure: Old City to Lesser-Known Sites
“This is a great tour, Hakan is a good storyteller He gave us very interesting facts and stories about his city and his culture and also very useful recommendations (places to shop, food, etc) We had a great time!”
How to get to Istanbul
Istanbul has two main airports – IST (Kemal Ataturk International Airport) and SAW (Sabiha Gokcen). From IST you can get to the city center by metro (line M11) or the Havaist bus, which goes directly to Sultanahmet. From SAW, the most convenient way to get there is by Havabus shuttle to Taksim Square, and then by metro or tram.
The main train station is located in the Sirkeci district – this is where trains from European countries arrive. European tourists often choose to travel by train to enjoy the views of the Balkans. However, the most popular way to get to the city is still by air.
Why Join a Free Tour in Istanbul?
If you are planning to visit Istanbul to see the sights and truly understand the soul of the city, a free tour in Istanbul is your best choice. It is a great opportunity to get to know the history, culture and atmosphere of the city without spending a fortune.
Free tours provide flexibility and live communication - each tour is different because it is created together with the participants. Thanks to this, walking tours become a real journey within a journey.
Join the tour on the first day of your visit - and you will save money and time, as well as get excellent orientation and many insider recommendations. Istanbul is waiting for you, and the best acquaintance with it begins with a walking tour.
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