Hi,

I know Context is an extremely popular company for small-group tours in Rome, Paris, Florence etc. They have apparently now expanded to include Istanbul as well. Has anyone tried them in Istanbul? They offer a three-hour Haghia Sofia seminar as well as a three-hour Topkapi Palace tour on the days that we'll be in Istanbul in September, but I would like to hear some reviews/feedback on these before booking. At 125 lira per person the price also seems a tad steep but I know Context is not cheap so I wasn't completely suprised by that price. We'd likely just pick one, and not both tours, at that price.

Any feedback? Or, if you haven't used Context Istanbul, which of these places (Haghia Sofia or Topkapi) do you think is worth an indepth examination and the cost of a tour like this?

Much thanks,
Amanda

ttt

Only you can decide what a so-called in-depth tour is worth. I, for one, believe that you can visit either of these locations with only a good guide book. A personal guide is certainly not necessary.
I recall, however, that the visit to the harem in Topkapi is, in fact, a guided group tour. Otherwise you are on your own there.
Enjoy Istanbul. It is a fascinating city perfect for wandering and exploring.

I would love to know the answer to this, too. I did two Context tours in Rome that were excellent. Will this translate to their new outpost in Istanbul? I hope someone knows. I leave for Turkey next week.

Hi .... I had 4 clients use Context Istanbul this year, and they were all blown away. The young woman who led their tours was personable and extremely knowledgeable, a scholar in fact. One of my guys, a scholar himself, had a bit of a crush on her.

In short, they all loved Context Istanbul and felt that they received more than they had paid for. Two of these gentlemen are always on the lookout for smart very in depth guides, and they aren't always pleased. They were totally pleased with CI.

I worked with Context to set up these tours, and I have to say that I like them a lot. Very professional, very knowledgeable guides. And one client is physically disabled, and Context is happy to work within his needs. I think highly of them.

I am so glad to hear that! We've gone ahead and booked the Topkapi Palace tour with them for a half-day.

I too work in the travel industry and have had great success with sending clients on Context tours in Rome, Paris and Florence, so it's encouraging to hear that they are doing so well in Istanbul. I always write a trip report and post to Fodor's so I'm sure I'll have more to say after we go in September!

thanks for the heads up on Context Istanbul. I used their services in Rome years ago, and became a fan.
I've now booked them,also for their Topkapi tour, for the Friday of my upcoming trip.