This full-day guided tour offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the historical heart of Istanbul, showcasing the most significant landmarks from both the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. With a professional local guide, you'll delve into centuries of history and culture, making it an ideal choice for first-time visitors and history enthusiasts.
Tour Highlights:
- Hippodrome: Begin your exploration at the Hippodrome, the ancient center of Constantinople's sporting and political life. Witness its four magnificent monuments: The German Fountain of Wilhelm II, the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpentine Column, and the Column of Constantine.
- Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya): Discover one of the world's greatest architectural marvels. Originally built as a Christian church in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian, it was converted into a mosque in 1453 by Sultan Fatih Mehmet. After serving as a museum since 1935, it has once again become a functioning mosque. Your guide will highlight its incredible history and diverse architectural elements. (Closed on Mondays, but generally viewable from outside or with adjusted itinerary.)
- Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque): Marvel at the breathtaking beauty of the Sultanahmet Mosque, known worldwide as the Blue Mosque due to the exquisite blue Iznik tiles adorning its interior. This majestic Ottoman mosque is unique for its six minarets. (Closed on Fridays during prayer times; interior access may be limited.)
- Topkapi Palace: Step into the opulent world of the Ottoman Empire at Topkapi Palace. For centuries, this served as the primary residence and administrative, educational, and art center for the Ottoman sultans. Explore the imperial treasury, sacred Islamic relics, the vast palace kitchens, and fascinating weapon collections. (Closed on Tuesdays.)
- Grand Bazaar: Conclude your historical journey at the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. With countless shops, it offers an incredible opportunity for shopping, from exquisite carpets and leather goods to dazzling jewelry, Turkish delight, gold, and antique tiles. (Closed on Sundays.)
Tour Logistics & Experience:
- Pick-up: Around 8:00 AM.
If your hotel is located in the main attraction area (Sultanahmet), your guide will pick you up by walking directly from your hotel.
For guests arriving by cruise ship, the designated meeting point is in front of the Hafız Mustafa Sweets Shop.
For other hotels, pick-up and drop-off will be provided using public transport (such as the tram). - Transportation During Tour: The main attractions are conveniently close to each other, so you will primarily walk between sites during the tour. No other vehicle usage is included for transfers between attractions.
- Duration: 7 hours.
- Shopping Opportunities: The tour includes opportunities to visit local shops like carpet showrooms, leather factories, Turkish delight stores, and jewelry shops.