The layover tours in Istanbul are one of the most wonderful ways of utilizing your time in the city rather than spending it in an airport for many hours. Istanbul, one of the world's most vibrant cities, has a lot to offer in a few hours' visit from 2 airports. Our layover tours depart from both Sabiha Gokcen (SAW) or Istanbul Airport (IST).


When you are contacting us, please let us know how many hours of layover time between your flights and then we'll send you with the greatest layover tour suggestions and alternative choices that work within your flight schedule.


For example, if you have a layover around 7-8 hours, you can do the below itinerary:


You will first visit The Topkapi Palace; Ottoman Sultan’s Residance built on the slopes of Sarayburnu. Topkapi Palace is a combination of different architectural styles. Topkapi Palace is the most visited museum in Turkey and you will be able to see the Ottoman Empire treasury, Dynasty clothing and Sacred Relics. Harem Section will not be included in the itinerary and there will be an extra entrance fee to visit this section.


The tour will continue with a walking through The Hippodrome which was once used for chariot races, celebrations, riots, executions and other important events through Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. The walk through The Hippodrome will be about 45 minutes.


Our next stop will be Hagia Sophia (St. Sophia) Museum, bearing the symbols of Christianity and Islam together. The church was built in 537 AD. by Roman Emperor Justinian and has been converted into a mosque in 15th century. You will visit the site about 1 hour and see the courtyard, entrance hall, main gallery and upper gallery.


The next stop will be The Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque) decorated with some of the best examples in Turkish Tile Art History. Built on the 17th century, Blue Mosque is a symbol of Istanbul standing in the heart of the city.


Our final stop will be in Grand Bazaar which is one of the biggest trading centers in the world with more than 4000 shops. After this stop, we will drive you back to the airport for your flight back home..