Istanbul in 4 Days for Couples - Private full-day Byzantine & Ottoman tour: Sultanahmet, Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace
In Collaboration with Kuantumtourism. Updated on February 16, 2026.
3 Nights 4 Days Accommodation Tours Included. Private guide for your party, private transfers, 2 full-day guided tours covering Byzantine and Ottoman highlights and a Bosphorus day with Asian-side visit. Shopping never insisted upon.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Kuantumtourism, inspired by the tour 3 Nights 4 Days Istanbul City Break. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Private full-day Byzantine & Ottoman tour: Sultanahmet, Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace
- Bosphorus cruise between Europe and Asia with Çamlıca Hill and Kadıköy-Moda
- Private roundtrip airport transfers and 4* hotel accommodation
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival day — private airport meet & transfer, hotel check-in and optional evening free time.
Arrival — Istanbul Airport (IST)
Arrival at Istanbul Airport. Meet-and-greet on arrival by your guide/driver at the arrivals hall.
Tips from local experts:
- Have your passport and arrival card ready for faster processing at immigration.
- Look for the guide holding a sign with your lead guest name in the arrivals hall (gates vary by airline).
- If you need local currency, use an official exchange desk inside the terminal after passport control.
Private transfer & meet-your-guide — transfer to hotel
Private transfer from the airport to your hotel. Your guide provides a short orientation during the drive and assists with check-in and immediate needs.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm your hotel name/room preference with the guide before leaving the airport to speed check-in.
- Keep any essential items (medication, chargers, documents) in a small bag you keep with you on transfer.
- If you wish to book an optional evening activity, ask your guide during the transfer for availability.
Hotel — check-in & overnight stay
Check in to your 4* hotel (Days Inn by Wyndham Bomonti or same standard). Evening at leisure; optional tours available on request.
Tips from local experts:
- Standard check-in is commonly mid-afternoon; if you arrive earlier, ask reception about luggage storage so you can start exploring.
- Request a quiet room away from the street if you prefer a restful evening after travel.
- Confirm breakfast hours with reception — included breakfast is served each morning at the hotel.
Day 2
Full day private Byzantine & Ottoman highlights: Sultanahmet district, Topkapı Palace, Grand Bazaar and historic mosques.
Full-day Private Guided Tour — Byzantine & Ottoman Relics
Your private guide accompanies you through the day; transportation between sites included as planned.
Tips from local experts:
- Start the day with a light breakfast at the hotel to keep energy for walking between sites.
- Wear comfortable shoes and a light scarf for mosque visits (modest dress required).
- Carry a small reusable water bottle; your guide will point to nearby places to refill.
Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque)
Visit the Blue Mosque and view its famous Iznik tile interior. Respect mosque visiting rules during prayer times.
Tips from local experts:
- Women should bring a scarf to cover hair and everyone should wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
- Shoes must be removed before entering—wear easy-to-remove footwear or carry a bag for shoes.
- Check with your guide for short closures for prayer times; mornings are typically less crowded than midday.
Hippodrome (Sultanahmet Square)
Short walk through the historic Hippodrome area to view the German Fountain, Obelisk and Serpentine Column.
Tips from local experts:
- This is an open public square—watch for light vehicle access and keep belongings secure.
- Short stop for photos; benches are available if you need a brief rest.
- Combine this stop with nearby sites to limit extra walking distances.
Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
Guided visit to Hagia Sophia to learn about its history as a basilica and Ottoman imperial mosque.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect security screening queues; small bags are faster to pass through security.
- Audio guides are available on-site but your licensed guide will provide focused commentary.
- Interior lighting can be low—bring a small camera with good low-light performance for photos.
Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı)
Walk the labyrinth of the Grand Bazaar with time to explore the historic covered market.
Tips from local experts:
- Carry small change for quick purchases and expect friendly bargaining—set a maximum price first.
- The bazaar has many covered alleys—agree a clear meeting point in case you get separated.
- Watch for quieter aisles if you prefer to avoid the busiest stalls around the main gates.
Lunch — local restaurant (Sultanahmet area)
Lunch break at an authentic local restaurant offering Turkish mezzes and main dishes.
Tips from local experts:
- Inform your guide of dietary restrictions in advance so a suitable restaurant can be chosen.
- Try a selection of cold starters (meze) shared between two for a relaxed couple’s meal.
- Ask for bottled water if you prefer it over tap water during the meal.
Topkapı Palace (Topkapı Sarayı)
Visit Topkapı Palace with its imperial collections and imperial kitchens; guided walkthrough of main courtyards and chambers.
Tips from local experts:
- Some rooms have separate paid sections (e.g., Harem); check with your guide if you wish to enter them.
- The palace grounds are large—follow your guide’s route to see key highlights without backtracking.
- There are shaded spots and benches inside the grounds for brief rests between sections.
Süleymaniye Mosque
Drive to and view the grand Süleymaniye Mosque, a landmark of Ottoman architecture by Mimar Sinan.
Tips from local experts:
- Limited seating areas are available around the complex—take a short rest on the courtyard benches if needed.
- Follow mosque etiquette for photography and quiet observation during visits.
- There are cafes nearby with views, useful for a short refreshment stop after the visit.
Traditional crafts demonstration / shop (Nakilbent Sokak)
Short visit to see handmade rugs, ceramics and leather crafts; explanation of techniques without obligation to purchase.
Tips from local experts:
- This stop is for observation and information; purchasing is optional—feel free to decline if uninterested.
- If you consider buying textiles, ask about delivery or authenticity paperwork before purchase.
- Keep receipts and documentation if you plan international shipping to avoid customs issues later.
Afternoon break / free time
Short free time for refreshment or return to hotel before evening.
Tips from local experts:
- If you prefer a quiet café, ask your guide for a recommended nearby spot for a relaxed drink.
- Use this time to change footwear or freshen up before dinner or further evening plans.
- Confirm pick-up time with your guide for the return transfer to the hotel.
Overnight — Days Inn by Wyndham Bomonti (or similar)
Return to your hotel for overnight.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm wake-up and breakfast arrangements with reception for your onward plans.
- If you plan to freshen up before dinner, request a late checkout or luggage hold if needed.
- For a romantic evening, ask reception about quiet rooftop or nearby terrace options.
Day 3
Bosphorus day: city walls and Golden Horn viewpoints, Spice Bazaar, Bosphorus boat ride, Asian side (Çamlıca), and Kadıköy-Moda promenade.
Full-day Private Bosphorus & Asian Side Tour
Private day covering the city walls, Golden Horn, Spice Bazaar, Bosphorus cruise, Çamlıca Hill and Kadıköy-Moda promenade.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a light jacket for the boat — it can be breezy on the water even on warm days.
- Camera with a zoom lens is useful for palace and waterside architecture photos.
- Inform your guide if you prefer a longer walking stop in Kadıköy-Moda or an earlier return to the hotel.
City Walls (Theodosian Walls) — drive-by/photo stop
Drive along and short stop by the historic city walls of Constantinople for photos and brief commentary.
Tips from local experts:
- This is primarily a drive-by with a short stop—wear shoes suitable for brief uneven surfaces if stepping out.
- There is limited shade near some wall sections—carry water on hot days.
- Follow guide instructions when stepping out onto roadside viewing points for safety.
Golden Horn viewpoint — short stop
View the Golden Horn estuary and hear about its historic role as a natural harbor.
Tips from local experts:
- The best light for photos is often in the morning or late afternoon; plan selfies accordingly.
- There are viewpoints with benches—use them for a short rest and enjoy the panorama.
- Keep an eye on belongings in crowded viewpoints, especially at weekends.
Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı)
Visit the historic Spice Bazaar to experience local aromas and small-scale shops.
Tips from local experts:
- Smaller shops may accept cards but having small cash is helpful for quick purchases.
- Samples are commonly offered—respectfully decline if you do not want to try products.
- Agree on packed quantities if buying spices to avoid surprises at checkout.
Bosphorus boat cruise (short)
A scenic cruise along the Bosphorus passing Dolmabahçe and Beylerbeyi Palaces and viewing Rumeli Fortress from the water.
Tips from local experts:
- Board at the local ferry/boat terminal—arrive a few minutes early to secure good seating.
- On-deck space is limited—bring a light windbreaker for comfort on the open deck.
- Keep a camera ready for photo opportunities of waterside mansions and palaces.
Lunch — Hoca Paşa area
Lunch at a local restaurant in the historic Hoca Paşa area.
Tips from local experts:
- Discuss menu choices with your guide—seafood or kebab dishes are common local options.
- If you prefer a lighter meal, request a shared mezze selection to try several items.
- Ask the server about local desserts if you would like a small sweet to finish.
Drive to Asian side — Çamlıca Hill (Küçük Çamlıca)
Visit Çamlıca Hill for panoramic views of the Bosphorus and both sides of Istanbul.
Tips from local experts:
- Reach the hill by car—there is a short walk to viewpoints; wear shoes for light slopes.
- There are cafes and terraces at the hill if you want a drink while enjoying the view.
- Visibility varies by weather—ask your guide for best photo angles based on conditions.
Kadıköy — Caferağa / Moda promenade
Stroll the Kadıköy Caferağa and Moda waterfront for seaside atmosphere and scenic views; suitable for a relaxed couple’s walk.
Tips from local experts:
- Moda promenade has several small cafes—perfect for a short tea or coffee with sea views.
- The area is pedestrian-friendly but can be busy; hold hands and pick a clear meeting point if exploring.
- If you enjoy pastries, try a local bakery item for a light, shareable treat.
Return to hotel and overnight
Drive back to your hotel after the day’s activities. Evening at leisure.
Tips from local experts:
- If you would like a relaxed dinner near the hotel, ask the reception for a quieter recommendation.
- Confirm tomorrow’s checkout and transfer time with reception the night before.
- Keep small souvenirs safely packed in your luggage for the return transfer.
Day 4
Checkout day — guide assists with hotel checkout and private transfer to Istanbul Airport.
Hotel checkout & final assistance by guide
Check out from hotel. Your guide will assist with luggage and final arrangements before transfer to the airport.
Tips from local experts:
- Have room keys and any incidentals settled with reception 15–30 minutes before your scheduled pickup.
- Confirm your flight time and allow sufficient transfer time; Istanbul traffic can vary significantly.
- Keep passport and boarding passes handy; your guide will assist with timing for arrival at airport check-in.
Private transfer to Istanbul Airport
Private transfer to Istanbul Airport for your departure. Guide accompanies you to the airport and assists until drop-off.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow at least 90–120 minutes for transfer and airport processing for international flights (more at peak times).
- Confirm your flight terminal with the guide in case of multiple airport terminals used by different airlines.
- Store any liquids or duty-free items in your hand luggage to avoid delays during security.
End of service / optional extension
Service ends upon airport drop-off. If you wish to extend accommodation or arrange further tours, advise your guide in advance.
Tips from local experts:
- If extending stay, confirm hotel availability and pickup/drop-off logistics with your guide before arrival at the airport.
- Keep a printed or digital copy of your flight ticket and voucher accessible until check-in is complete.
- If you require assistance at the airport (e.g., wheelchair), inform the guide beforehand so arrangements can be made.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 4 |
| Highlights | 3 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 5 |
| Restaurants | 2 |
| Total Activities | 21 |
| Total Places | 26 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Hotel, Experience, Culture, Attraction, Shopping, Meal, Break, Outdoor, Neighborhood |
