- Ancient Tour
- Islamic Tour
Istanbul Sultanahmet Essentials Tour
See Istanbul’s essential old-city monuments in a private 5-hour tour with Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Hippodrome, Obelisk, and Serpent Column, including hotel or airport pickup.
From Istanbul
See Istanbul’s essential old-city monuments in a private 5-hour tour with Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Hippodrome, Obelisk, and Serpent...
TRD53
5 Hours (Half-Day)
1 City • 5 Places
- Best Tour
- Ancient Tour
- Islamic Tour
Istanbul Complete Old City Tour
Take a private 9-hour Istanbul full-day route with Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Underground Cistern, and Grand Bazaar, including hotel-airport pickup and drop-off.
From Istanbul
Take a private 9-hour Istanbul full-day route with Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Underground Cistern, and Grand...
TRD54
9 Hours (Full Day)
1 City • 6 Places
- Best Tour
- Ancient Tour
- Islamic Tour
Istanbul Two Continents Signature Tour
Experience a private 8-hour Istanbul signature tour with Dolmabahce Palace, Yildiz Royal Garden, Rustem Pasa Mosque, Egyptian Bazaar, and Bosphorus cruise from hotel or airport pickup.
From Istanbul
Experience a private 8-hour Istanbul signature tour with Dolmabahce Palace, Yildiz Royal Garden, Rustem Pasa Mosque, Egyptian Bazaar, and...
TRD55
8 Hours (Full Day)
1 City • 5 Places
- Ancient Tour
Istanbul Bosphorus and Spice Market Express
Book a private 4-hour Istanbul express tour with Rustem Pasa Mosque, Egyptian Spice Bazaar, and Bosphorus yacht cruise crossing Europe and Asia with bridge, palace, and fortress views.
From Istanbul
Book a private 4-hour Istanbul express tour with Rustem Pasa Mosque, Egyptian Spice Bazaar, and Bosphorus yacht cruise crossing Europe...
TRD56
4 Hours (Half-Day)
1 City • 3 Places
- Ancient Tour
- Historical Tour
Istanbul Insider Walking Day
Join a private 8-hour insider Istanbul walking day across Asian and European neighborhoods with daily bazaars, fish markets, local food culture, and seasonal Bosphorus cruise.
From Istanbul
Join a private 8-hour insider Istanbul walking day across Asian and European neighborhoods with daily bazaars, fish markets, local food...
TRD57
8 Hours (Full Day)
1 City • 8 Places
- Ancient Tour
- Historical Tour
- Jewish Tour
Istanbul Jewish Quarters Discovery
Take a private 5-hour Jewish heritage discovery in Istanbul with Galata and Balat routes, Neve Shalom Synagogue, Ashkenazi heritage points, Jewish Museum, and key community landmarks.
From Istanbul
Take a private 5-hour Jewish heritage discovery in Istanbul with Galata and Balat routes, Neve Shalom Synagogue, Ashkenazi heritage...
TRD58
5 Hours (Half-Day)
1 City • 9 Places
- Ancient Tour
- Jewish Tour
Istanbul Jewish Heritage Route
Book a private 4-hour Istanbul Jewish heritage route through Galata and Golden Horn districts with Ashkenazi and related synagogue points, Neve Shalom, Jewish Museum, and key community landmarks.
From Istanbul
Book a private 4-hour Istanbul Jewish heritage route through Galata and Golden Horn districts with Ashkenazi and related synagogue...
TRD59
4 Hours (Half-Day)
1 City • 7 Places
- Ancient Tour
- Jewish Tour
Istanbul Jewish Heritage Complete Circuit
Book a private 8-hour complete Jewish heritage circuit in Istanbul covering Galata, Balat, Haskoy, Ortakoy, and Kuzguncuk with synagogue landmarks, museum context, Golden Horn crossings, and community institutions.
From Istanbul
Book a private 8-hour complete Jewish heritage circuit in Istanbul covering Galata, Balat, Haskoy, Ortakoy, and Kuzguncuk with synagogue...
TRD60
8 Hours (Full Day)
1 City • 12 Places
- Best Tour
- Ancient Tour
Istanbul Gallipoli Troy History Tour
Join a 2 Day Istanbul Gallipoli Troy History Tour from Istanbul by private car. Visit Gallipoli battlefields and ANZAC memorials, then explore Troy Ancient City, Temple of Athena and the Wooden Horse.
From Istanbul
Join a 2 Day Istanbul Gallipoli Troy History Tour from Istanbul by private car. Visit Gallipoli battlefields and ANZAC memorials, then...
TRP09
1 Night/2 Days
2 Cities • 14 Places
- Ancient Tour
- Islamic Tour
- Historical Tour
Istanbul to Ottoman Roots Journey
Join a 2 day Istanbul to Ottoman Roots Journey from Istanbul by private licensed guide and VIP A/C vehicle. Visit Bilecik and Sogut landmarks including Sheikh Edebali Shrine and Ertugrul Ghazi Tombs, then continue to Bursa Ulu Mosque, Koza Han, Green Tomb, Osman-Orhan mausoleums, and Uludag area.
From Istanbul
Join a 2 day Istanbul to Ottoman Roots Journey from Istanbul by private licensed guide and VIP A/C vehicle. Visit Bilecik and Sogut...
TRP49
1 Night/2 Days
4 Cities • 13 Places
- Ancient Tour
Istanbul to Izmir and Ephesus Highlights
Take a 2 day Istanbul to Izmir and Ephesus Highlights tour by flight with private licensed guide and VIP vehicle. Explore Izmir landmarks including Konak, Kemeralti, Kadifekale, Agora, and Izmir Archaeological Museum, then discover Ephesus Ancient City, House of Virgin Mary, Temple of Artemis, and E
From Istanbul
Take a 2 day Istanbul to Izmir and Ephesus Highlights tour by flight with private licensed guide and VIP vehicle. Explore Izmir landmarks...
TRP50
1 Night/2 Days
3 Cities • 11 Places
- Biblical Tour
- Ancient Tour
- Jewish Tour
Istanbul to Sardes and Izmir Chronicles
Book a 2 day Istanbul to Sardes and Izmir Chronicles tour by flight with private licensed guide and VIP A/C vehicle. Explore Old Smyrna landmarks in Izmir, then visit Sardes Archaeological Site including the Gymnasium, Jewish Synagogue, and the Temple of Artemis.
From Istanbul
Book a 2 day Istanbul to Sardes and Izmir Chronicles tour by flight with private licensed guide and VIP A/C vehicle. Explore Old Smyrna...
TRP51
1 Night/2 Days
3 Cities • 10 Places
- Ancient Tour
Istanbul to Izmir and Pamukkale Essentials
Take a 2 day Istanbul to Izmir and Pamukkale Essentials tour by flight with private licensed guide and VIP vehicle. Visit Old Smyrna landmarks in Izmir, then continue to Pamukkale white terraces, Cleopatra Pool, and Hierapolis Ancient Site on a structured private route.
From Istanbul
Take a 2 day Istanbul to Izmir and Pamukkale Essentials tour by flight with private licensed guide and VIP vehicle. Visit Old Smyrna...
TRP52
1 Night/2 Days
3 Cities • 10 Places
- Ancient Tour
- Historical Tour
Istanbul to Aphrodisias and Pamukkale Highlights
Join a 2 day Istanbul to Aphrodisias and Pamukkale Highlights tour by flight with private licensed guide and VIP vehicle. Explore Aphrodisias Ancient City and museum on day one, then visit Pamukkale white travertines, Cleopatra Pool, and Hierapolis Ancient Site on day two.
From Istanbul
Join a 2 day Istanbul to Aphrodisias and Pamukkale Highlights tour by flight with private licensed guide and VIP vehicle. Explore...
TRP53
1 Night/2 Days
3 Cities • 10 Places
- Ancient Tour
Istanbul to Ephesus and Pamukkale Landmarks
Take a 2 day Istanbul to Ephesus and Pamukkale Landmarks tour by flight with private licensed guide and VIP vehicle. Visit Ephesus Ancient City, House of Virgin Mary, Temple of Artemis, Ephesus Museum, then continue to Pamukkale terraces, Cleopatra Pool, and Hierapolis Ancient Site.
From Istanbul
Take a 2 day Istanbul to Ephesus and Pamukkale Landmarks tour by flight with private licensed guide and VIP vehicle. Visit Ephesus...
TRP54
1 Night/2 Days
3 Cities • 11 Places
- Ancient Tour
Ionia Masterpieces and Ephesus Tour
Discover a 2 days Ionia Masterpieces and Ephesus Tour from Istanbul by flight with private guided vehicle. Visit House of Virgin Mary, Ephesus Ancient City, Temple of Artemis, Ephesus Archaeological Museum, Priene Ancient City, Miletus Ancient City, and Didyma Temple of Apollo.
From Istanbul
Discover a 2 days Ionia Masterpieces and Ephesus Tour from Istanbul by flight with private guided vehicle. Visit House of Virgin Mary,...
TRP56
1 Night/2 Days
4 Cities • 12 Places
- Ancient Tour
Sirince and Ephesus Aegean Highlights
Discover 2 days Sirince and Ephesus Aegean Highlights from Istanbul by flight with private guide. Visit Sirince Village, Ephesus Ancient City, House of Virgin Mary, Temple of Artemis, and Ephesus Archaeological Museum with overnight stay in Kusadasi.
From Istanbul
Discover 2 days Sirince and Ephesus Aegean Highlights from Istanbul by flight with private guide. Visit Sirince Village, Ephesus Ancient...
TRP58
1 Night/2 Days
2 Cities • 9 Places
- Ancient Tour
Ephesus Aphrodisias Pamukkale Cultural Route
Discover a 2 days Ephesus Aphrodisias Pamukkale Cultural Route from Istanbul by flight with private guide. Visit Ephesus Ancient City, House of Virgin Mary, Temple of Artemis, Ephesus Archaeological Museum, Aphrodisias Ancient City and Museum, Laodicea Ancient City, Pamukkale travertines, Hierapolis
From Istanbul
Discover a 2 days Ephesus Aphrodisias Pamukkale Cultural Route from Istanbul by flight with private guide. Visit Ephesus Ancient City,...
TRP65
1 Night/2 Days
3 Cities • 8 Places
- Ancient Tour
Cappadocia Valleys and Underground Wonders
Join a 2 days Cappadocia Valleys and Underground Wonders tour from Istanbul by flight with private guide. Visit Goreme Open Air Museum churches, Kaymakli Underground City, Pasabagi, Pigeon Valley, Uchisar, Three Beauties, and Ortahisar Castle.
From Istanbul
Join a 2 days Cappadocia Valleys and Underground Wonders tour from Istanbul by flight with private guide. Visit Goreme Open Air Museum...
TRP86
1 Night/2 Days
1 City • 15 Places
- Ancient Tour
Cappadocia Underground and Valley Discovery
Join a 2 days Cappadocia Underground and Valley Discovery from Istanbul by night bus with private guide. Visit Goreme Open Air Museum churches, Kaymakli Underground City, Pasabagi Monks Valley, Pigeon Valley, Uchisar, Three Beauties, and Ortahisar Castle.
From Istanbul
Join a 2 days Cappadocia Underground and Valley Discovery from Istanbul by night bus with private guide. Visit Goreme Open Air Museum...
TRP87
1 Night/2 Days
1 City • 15 Places
WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT US
WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT US
WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT US
Welcome to Gigil Travel Agency, offering professionally organized Istanbul Tours with daily tours, daily tours from Istanbul, and complete package tours from Istanbul. Istanbul Tours are designed to explore the city’s rich history, iconic landmarks, and vibrant culture while also providing easy access to nearby destinations through well-planned itineraries. Whether you choose flexible daily city tours or extended tour packages departing from Istanbul, Istanbul Tours deliver comfortable, reliable, and memorable travel experiences tailored to different travel styles.
Historical Istanbul
I came to Istanbul for my research on historical places. Istanbul is a very rich city in terms of history. I had a very productive experience with my guide Mr Mehmet. The historical information he has given me will be useful for my research. I found Gigil on the internet, although I was a little hesitant, I was happy that my choice was correct. I would definitely recommend gigil for academic tours.
Fullday istanbul tour
I joined the Istanbul group tour with 2 of my friends and made new friends. We were very pleased with the tour and the group, our guide was very cheerful and full of energy and it reflected that to us. Istanbul's historical places are almost fascinating. People were worshiping in Hagia Sophia and we were watching its historical atmosphere. Istanbul is the center and meeting place of all religions. Thank you for this wonderful experience. I will recommend you to all my friends...
1 Day Tour with Eren
We had a private day tour with Eren. She was a great tour guide, very knowledgeable and showed us all the main sites in Istanbul. Her communication was great; had a good standard of English. She took us to an amazing restaurant in the Topkapi Palace. We all recommend Eren as a guide in Istanbul.
Amazing experience 6 stars
Amazing tour. We did the one full day tour and our guide Eren was beyond amazing. Smart, knowledgeable, perfect English, sweet, always smiling (behind the COVID mask :)). I’d give it 6 stars if I could.
The perfect way to spend a day in Istanbul!
We spent a day with our guide Eren, seeing the highlights of Istanbul as much as we could fit. It was absolutely perfect! Eren was very knowledgeable and just pure fun to hang out with. Our email interactions with Vedat at their office were also great during the planning stages. We wanted to customize (extend) our tour a bit and he was very welcoming and responsive. Thanks Istanbul Tour, we had a great time and we can't recommend these guys enough!
Fantastic Experience!
Our family of 2 highly recommend this tour. Eren was a fantastic guide who is very knowledgeable, hospitable and thorough! We very much enjoyed experiencing the culture of Istanbul and feel these were the best highlights of the city. If you get a chance to visit Istanbul, you should book this tour and request Eren. Thank you Eren!
Reliable Agent!
They respond quickly to email and chat. They can customize your trip and the best part is, our tour guide Işık speaks fluent English and knows a lot about the places you go. He also handles the tour well and lets you enjoy the trip. We also told him that we enjoyed taking photos and that he took notes on special spots for the photos. Finally, the journey will not be perfect without your transportation, a brand new mercedes benz minibus with our lovely driver who makes everything safe... I highly recommend this tour if you visit Ephesus! Thanks Haron!
Good team nice guide knowledge and love of his country
My wife and i used eren as a guide we launched turkey from istanbul, gellibolu, pamukkale, ephesus cappadocia and many other places, eren's knowledge of turkey, we didn't miss anything, him as a guide I advise. istanbul is an amazing city and something you will miss a lot without a guide, I would recommend eren and his team without hesitation and hope to use them again in the future.
An unforgettable experience in Turkey thanks to Gigil Travel!
Gigil Travel is an excellent travel agency. I am satisfied with the good service, courtesy, punctuality and professionalism of this agency. I would especially like to congratulate Harun who gave me a personalized and very efficient treatment. I had a nice trip in many cities, especially in Istanbul, Izmir, Kusadasi, Antalya, Fetiye, Cappadocia and all hotels, transfers, meals, excursions were excellent, Guides, friendly staff, good hotels in very beautiful places. Receive all my thanks and commitment to continue to be your customer.
Turkey highlights package tour
Our tour started from Istanbul and then continued on the route of Izmir, Kusadasi, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Cappadocia. We thoroughly enjoyed our tour. Organization, guides and hotels were good. Our guides were kind and knowledgeable people. We would like to spend more time in Cappadocia. It's a great place! We will return to our country soon, but we want to come back to Turkey on holiday at the first opportunity. We would like to thank the gigil team for this beautiful organization. Good agency.
Let's Organize Your Tour Plan Together!
I have chosen for you the best regions. Feel free to create your own itinerary.
FAQs
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Do I need a visa to visit Turkey (Istanbul)?
Visa requirements depend on your passport and can change.
- Please verify the latest entry rules for your nationality via official sources before travel.
- Many visitors use an e-Visa when eligible for short tourist stays.
- If you tell us your passport country, we can guide you to the correct official channel to confirm.
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Which airport will I arrive at in Istanbul: IST or SAW?
Istanbul has two main airports: IST (Istanbul Airport, European side) and SAW (Sabiha Gokcen, Asian side).
- Transfer times differ a lot depending on your hotel area and traffic.
- Double-check your ticket because IST and SAW are not close to each other.
- If you share your hotel area, we can advise the most realistic transfer plan.
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How long does an airport transfer take in Istanbul?
Transfer time depends heavily on traffic and where you stay.
- Allow extra time during morning and evening rush hours.
- Crossing between European and Asian sides can add significant time.
- For flights, we recommend planning a comfortable buffer instead of cutting it close.
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What is the best area to stay in Istanbul for sightseeing?
The best area depends on your travel style.
- Sultanahmet: walkable to major historic landmarks (very convenient, especially for short stays).
- Galata/Karakoy: central, lively, great for food and walking.
- Taksim: convenient transport connections and shopping.
- If you tell us your priorities, we can suggest the best base for your itinerary.
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How many days do I need in Istanbul?
Istanbul has a lot to see, so trip length makes a big difference.
- 1 day: highlights only (fast pace).
- 2 to 3 days: classic landmarks plus neighborhoods.
- 4+ days: adds museums, food experiences, and day trips without rushing.
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What is the best time of year to visit Istanbul?
Istanbul is a year-round city, but the experience changes by season.
- Spring and autumn: comfortable for walking tours.
- Summer: busier and hotter, but long daylight hours.
- Winter: fewer crowds, cooler weather, and occasional rain.
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Is Istanbul safe for tourists?
Istanbul is generally safe for visitors and is used to international tourism.
- Use normal big-city awareness in crowded areas and on public transport.
- Be cautious with unofficial taxi offers and overly friendly street approaches in tourist zones.
- Keep valuables secure, especially in busy markets and transport hubs.
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What currency is used in Istanbul and Turkey?
Turkey uses the Turkish Lira (TRY).
- Cards are widely accepted in many places, but having some cash is practical.
- ATMs and exchange offices are common in central areas.
- Keep small bills for tips and small purchases.
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Can I pay by credit card in Istanbul?
In most restaurants, hotels, and shops, you can pay by card.
- Cash is still useful for bazaars, small shops, and some taxis.
- Tell your bank you are traveling to reduce card declines.
- Keep a backup payment option for convenience.
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How do I get around Istanbul (public transport)?
Istanbul has metro, tram, buses, ferries, and funicular lines.
- The Istanbulkart is the easiest way to pay for public transport.
- Ferries are a scenic and often efficient way to cross the Bosphorus.
- Traffic can be heavy, so rail and ferry options can save time.
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Should I use taxis in Istanbul or avoid them?
Taxis can be convenient, but it is best to be careful and use common-sense rules.
- Use licensed taxis and prefer routes you can roughly track on your phone.
- Confirm the destination before starting and avoid unofficial offers.
- If you prefer a smoother experience, private transfers can be easier for airports and long distances.
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What should I wear when visiting mosques in Istanbul?
Modest dress is expected at mosques.
- Cover shoulders and knees.
- Women may be asked to cover hair with a scarf.
- Shoes are removed at the entrance, so socks can be helpful.
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Are Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque open every day?
Opening times can change and parts of religious sites may be restricted during prayer times.
- Friday midday can be especially busy or restricted due to prayers.
- Dress code applies as these are active religious sites.
- We plan tour timing around the latest opening rules for the day.
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How much walking is there on an Istanbul city tour?
Most Istanbul sightseeing involves walking on hills, stairs, and cobblestone streets.
- Wear comfortable shoes.
- In warm months, bring water and sun protection.
- If you have mobility concerns, tell us so we can adjust the pace and route.
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What is the best way to visit Topkapi Palace and avoid queues?
Topkapi can get busy, especially in peak season.
- Starting early helps reduce crowds.
- Some sections may have separate tickets or special rules.
- On guided days, we plan entry order to keep the visit smooth.
