Hop-on Hop-off Istanbul City Sightseeing Bus Tour: Buy Tickets

Touring a city on an open topped double decker tourist bus is very common in many major destinations in the world. And so for Istanbul. So it’s time to hop-on to discover more of Istanbul and hop-off to explore the most visited and popular landmarks in Istanbul. Here on this page, you will find everything you need to know about the Hop-on Hop-off Istanbul city sightseeing bus tour including insider advice.

Table of Contents

Quick Insights

The Hop-On Hop-Off bus offers unlimited rides with flexible tickets valid for 24 or 48 hours, allowing you to explore Istanbul at your own pace.
Major stops include Sultanahmet, Dolmabahçe Palace, Taksim Square, and Beylerbeyi Palace, covering both European and Asian sides.
Buses run hourly from 10 am to 5 pm on weekdays, and the full loop takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
The bus provides audio guides in 8 languages, offering historical and cultural insights during the tour.
Tickets range from €45 to €55, making it a budget-friendly alternative to private tours or taxis.

Top Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tickets

If you are looking for the best Istanbul city sightseeing bus tickets with no regrets, we have you covered. Below are some of best experiences you can find! Feel free to book online in advance (as you’ll get discounts), by choosing the eco-friendly option of online tickets.

How does the Hop-On Hop-Off bus work in Istanbul?

The bus operates on weekday schedules from 10 am to 5 pm, with buses departing every hour from Sultanahmet Square. The full route takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes, and you can hop on or off at any of the major tourist stops. Your ticket is valid for either 24 or 48 hours, depending on the type you choose.

What to Expect?

Exploring Istanbul’s top attractions can be overwhelming due to the city’s size and its complex transport options. Many tourists struggle with navigating between landmarks, wasting time figuring out routes or using taxis. The solution? Hop-On Hop-Off buses offer a flexible, easy way to see all of the city’s highlights at your own pace.

With multiple stops at iconic sites and convenient ticket options, this service ensures a stress-free sightseeing experience. Istanbul Hop-on Hop-off City Sightseeing Bus Tour is also a cheap way to discover and explore the popular zones of Istanbul which you just couldn’t walk to and see in one day.

The sightseeing bus runs every 30/60 minutes and lets you see the most popular popular sights along the interesting and different districts and neighborhoods of the city. And what is great that you can all do it in a couple of hours.

Perfect choice especially for:

First time visitors.
Travelers that has short stay in Istanbul, such as Cruise passengers.
The history and facts of the city while travelling with rich audio guide.
Budget travelers to see the city’s main attractions.
Families with kids and the elderly.
Limited mobility travelers as the buses are wheelchair accessible.

How Hop-On Hop-Off Buses Work in Istanbul

The Hop-On Hop-Off city sightseeing bus system in Istanbul operates daily, offering tourists a convenient and flexible way to explore the city. Here’s how it works:

Meeting Point: All tours begin at Sultanahmet Square, located between the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, next to the main road.
Ticketing Process: Tickets can be purchased online or at Sultanahmet Square. They are valid for 24 or 48 hours, depending on the package you select. During this period, you can ride the buses as many times as you like.
Boarding and Frequency: Buses depart every hour from 10 am to 5 pm, giving you the flexibility to create your own schedule. The full tour loop takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes, but you can hop off at any stop and rejoin the bus later.

The buses also provide multilingual audio guides to help you learn more about the city’s rich history and cultural landmarks as you travel between attractions.

This service is ideal for first-time visitors who want to experience Istanbul’s highlights without worrying about transportation logistics.

Where the Bus Tour starts?

You can start the bus tour at any of the many stops along the routes. The tour initially starts from the Sultanahmet Square, just across the Hagia Sophia, in the historical peninsula. The tour bus is really easy to find and it usually sits there waiting to go.

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: Key Stops

The Hop-On Hop-Off bus covers many of Istanbul’s most iconic sights. Here is the typical itinerary:

Sultanahmet: Pass by the heart of historical Istanbul, including the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque.
Eminonu: View the Spice Bazaar and the bustling port where locals and tourists gather.
Karakoy: Known for its trendy cafes and proximity to the Galata Tower, this area offers views of the Bosphorus.
Galataport Istanbul: This is one of the city’s newly developed waterfront areas, offering modern shopping and dining.
Dolmabahce Palace: A stunning 19th-century palace on the European coast of the Bosphorus, historically home to Ottoman sultans.
Istanbul Naval Museum: Pass by this museum dedicated to the Turkish naval forces, housing an impressive collection of maritime artifacts.
Beylerbeyi Palace: Situated on the Asian side, this palace offers a unique perspective of Ottoman-era architecture.
Besiktas: One of the liveliest districts in Istanbul, famous for its vibrant streets and local cafes.:
Taksim Square: Known for its cultural and political significance, Taksim Square is a central hub for locals and tourists alike.
Sishane: A key stop close to the Galata Tower, offering great views of the city.
Spice Bazaar: A final stop near one of Istanbul’s most famous marketplaces, perfect for exploring local flavors and shopping for spices.

The full loop for each route takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes, but you can customize your itinerary by hopping on and off at any stop.

Ticket Options and Pricing

There are several ticketing options available for tourists, each catering to different travel schedules:

1-Day Pass: Valid for 24 hours, this option is perfect for those with a shorter stay in Istanbul. You can access both the Red and Blue routes with unlimited rides.
2-Day Pass: This 48-hour pass allows for more leisurely exploration, perfect if you want to break up your sightseeing across two days.
Combo Tickets: Some packages combine a Hop-On Hop-Off ticket with entry to top attractions like Hagia Sophia or a Bosphorus cruise, offering great value for tourists looking to see multiple attractions.

Ticket prices range from €45-€55, depending on the pass and any additional attractions included. You can purchase tickets online, at major tourist spots, or even from your hotel concierge.

Where to Buy Istanbul Hop On Hop Off Tickets

There are several options:

Buy directly on the Bus on location.
Buy via Get Your Guide or Viator, this is the best choice with free cancellation option.

Majority of the tourists prefer to buy the Istanbul Hop-on Hop-off Bus tickets online, to avoid staying out of the bus due to crowd, also as its being more cheaper than buying on location.

You can buy the tickets aboard on location for sure but note that it will be expensive and you’ll have to wait in queue, as the queue can get quite long during hot season.

Buying online will give you the cheapest price. Tickets are sent by email and you’ll just print out the voucher and show it to the driver, or just show it on your smart phone.

By avoiding printed tickets at the window, you’ll contribute to a sustainable and greener travel experience.

Our Top Ticket Picks

by Getyourguide

by Viator

Benefits of the Hop-On Hop-Off Experience

The Hop-On Hop-Off bus service provides several unique benefits for tourists:

Flexibility: You can create your own schedule, spending as much or as little time at each attraction as you wish.
Convenience: There’s no need to worry about navigating Istanbul’s public transport system or negotiating with taxi drivers.
Multilingual Audio Guides: These guides offer insights into Istanbul’s rich history and culture, available in 8 languages, making it easy for international visitors to enjoy.
Cost-Effective: The buses cover many of Istanbul’s major attractions, making this a cheaper and more efficient alternative to booking multiple guided tours or hiring private drivers.
Accessibility: With buses stopping at top tourist destinations across the city, the service is designed for all types of travelers, including families and first-time visitors.

How to Use the Ticket Effectively

With the double decker Hop on hop off Istanbul City Sightseeing Bus Tour, you can get off at any of the designated stops (which means hop-off) and than explore the area and sights on foot at your leisure.

And then you can catch the next bus (buses arrive the stops in every 30 mins/60 mins.) from any stop when you’re ready (which means hop-on) to move on and visit the other sights on the route.

The stops are all located close to the most visited and famous landmarks and attractions of Istanbul. The upper deck of the city sightseeing bus offers a great vantage point for the amazing panoramic views of the city and lets you take photos.

Insider Tips for the Best Experience

To make the most of your Hop-On Hop-Off experience in Istanbul, consider these tips:

Start Early: The earlier you start your day, the more time you have to explore each stop.
Top Deck Views: Opt for a seat on the open-top deck for the best views and photo opportunities, especially as you cross the Bosphorus Bridge.
Plan Your Stops: Research the stops ahead of time and prioritize the landmarks you most want to visit. This will help you make the most of your 24 or 48-hour pass.
Avoid Peak Hours: If possible, avoid peak travel hours (midday) to enjoy shorter lines at popular stops.
Bring Water and Snacks: While there are plenty of stops near cafes and restaurants, it’s always a good idea to bring snacks and water, especially during summer.

Alternative Sightseeing Options

While Hop-On Hop-Off buses are a great way to explore Istanbul, there are other sightseeing options to consider:

Bosphorus Cruises: A cruise on the Bosphorus offers a unique perspective of Istanbul, allowing you to see both the European and Asian sides from the water.
Guided Walking Tours: For travelers who prefer a more in-depth exploration, walking tours offer expert insights and access to hidden gems throughout the city.
Private Tours: If you’re looking for a more personalized experience, consider booking a private guide or chauffeur to tailor the tour to your interests.

These alternatives offer different ways to explore the city, but the Hop-On Hop-Off bus remains the most flexible and cost-effective for first-time visitors.

FAQs

What is the Hop-On Hop-Off bus in Istanbul?

The Hop-On Hop-Off bus is a tourist-friendly service that allows passengers to board and exit the bus at multiple stops across Istanbul’s top attractions. You can explore iconic sites like the Hagia Sophia, Dolmabahçe Palace, and Taksim Square at your own pace with flexible 24- or 48-hour tickets.

Where can I buy tickets for the Hop-On Hop-Off bus in Istanbul?

Tickets can be purchased online, at ticket booths in Sultanahmet Square, or even at some hotels. Online purchasing is recommended for convenience and discounts. Tickets typically range from €45 to €55, depending on the duration and additional attraction access.

What are the top stops on the Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour in Istanbul?

Key stops on the Hop-On Hop-Off bus include Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Spice Bazaar, Dolmabahçe Palace, Taksim Square, and Beylerbeyi Palace. The routes cover both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul, giving you a comprehensive tour of the city’s most famous landmarks.

How long does the full Hop-On Hop-Off bus loop take?

The full loop takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, though you can hop off at any of the designated stops and rejoin the tour at a later time. The buses run every hour, providing plenty of flexibility to explore each attraction at your leisure.

Can I use the Hop-On Hop-Off bus on weekends?

Yes, the Istanbul Hop-On Hop-Off bus operates on weekends as well, but it’s best to check specific timings and schedules before your visit, as some services might have adjusted hours during certain seasons or events. The standard weekday operating time is from 10 am to 5 pm.

What languages are available for the audio guide on the Hop-On Hop-Off bus?

The Istanbul Hop-On Hop-Off bus provides audio guides in 8 languages, including English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Russian, Arabic, and Turkish. These guides offer detailed historical and cultural information about each attraction as you travel.

How much does a Hop-On Hop-Off bus ticket cost in Istanbul?

Ticket prices for the Hop-On Hop-Off bus in Istanbul typically range from €45 to €55. There are also combo tickets available, which include access to popular attractions like Hagia Sophia or a Bosphorus cruise, offering added value for tourists.

Will the Hop-On Hop-Off bus take me to both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul?

Yes, the bus covers both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul, with stops at major landmarks on both continents, such as Beylerbeyi Palace on the Asian side and Dolmabahçe Palace on the European side. This makes it an ideal option for experiencing Istanbul’s unique cross-continental location.

Conclusion

The Hop-On Hop-Off bus is the ultimate way to explore Istanbul’s most famous landmarks with convenience and flexibility. Whether you choose a 1-day or 2-day pass, or Bus & Boat Combo Tour, you’ll be able to see the city’s highlights at your own pace, complete with insightful commentary through multilingual audio guides.

Ready to explore Istanbul with ease? Book your Hop-On Hop-Off tickets today and make the most of your time in our city!