Free Tour Istanbul in One Day: Old City & Asian Side Walk
Overview
The Imperial Heart (Europe):
• Byzantine Heritage: We start at Sultanahmet Square to see the Egyptian Obelisk and the Serpent Column, uncovering the secrets of the ancient Hippodrome.
• Architectural Wonders: Visit the Blue Mosque (our primary interior stop) to learn about Islamic traditions. We also provide historical context for Hagia Sophia, the Basilica Cistern, and the Topkapı Palace grounds.
• Ottoman Legacy: See the Hürrem Sultan Hammam and the ornate Fountain of Ahmed III.
The Crossing & The Local Pulse (Asia):
• Bosphorus Ferry: Enjoy a scenic boat ride from Eminönü to Kadıköy, experiencing the city’s most iconic commute.
• Market Immersion: On the Asian side, we dive into the famous Kadıköy Fish Market and the vibrant Bazaar.
• Bohemian Streets: Wander through Tellalzade and Kadife Street, discovering the trendy side of Istanbul where locals eat and socialize.
The tour ends in Kadıköy, where I will provide personalized recommendations for the best local restaurants and shops!
This activity includes:
- Sultanahmet Square
- The Blue Mosque
- Obelisk of Theodosius
- Örme Dikilitaş
- Hurrem Sultan Hammam
- Fountain Sultan Ahmed III
- Serpent Column
- Hagia Irene
- Hagia Sophia
- Topkapi Palace Museum
- Istanbul Archaeological Museums
- Basilica Cistern
- Tellalzade Antiques
- Kadikoy Bull Statue
- kadife street
- ferry fee
Our Guides
On arrival
The meeting point is the German Fountain (Alman Çeşmesi) located in Sultanahmet Square.
It is easily accessible by tram (T1 line – Sultanahmet stop).
After getting off the tram, walk toward Sultanahmet Square. The fountain is located between the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.
The guide will be waiting at the fountain, wearing a yellow rain jacket and holding a colorful umbrella.
Things to note
This is a free, tip-based walking tour with a maximum group size of 10 guests, conducted in English.
The meeting point is in front of the German Fountain. The guide will be easy to recognize, wearing a yellow rain jacket and holding a colorful umbrella.
The tour follows a walking route through Sultanahmet and Kadıköy, including a ferry crossing from Eminönü to Kadıköy. The ferry ticket is included and covered by the guide.
Only the Blue Mosque is visited inside; all other sites are explained from the outside. Modest clothing is required for the mosque visit, and women are advised to bring a scarf.
On Fridays, the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque) is closed to visitors until 14:30 due to Friday prayers. In this case, the explanation will be provided from outside with full historical and cultural context.
In Kadıköy, guests may optionally grab street food or local snacks during short breaks.
The tour involves long walking distances and is not fully wheelchair accessible. It runs rain or shine, so comfortable shoes and water are recommended.
Tips are optional and can be given in cash or via the FreeTour platform, based on guest satisfaction.
How can the tour be free?
Our concept is simple — there is no set price. Instead, you tip your guide at the end of the tour whatever amount feels right to you. Typically, guests give between $10 to €50, depending on their satisfaction and budget.
Most guides accept cash or card payments, or you can do it via our app.
Free Cancellation
You are free to cancel a booking anytime. We kindly remind you to cancel bookings you cannot arrive for. Being reported as absent decreases your customer level points and the benefits you can enjoy.
