Prepare yourself for a journey through time as we dive into the heart of Istanbul, a city drenched in history, culture, and architectural marvels. Our Full-Day Guided Tour offers an enriching exploration of this unique city that marries East and West, old and new.
Embrace Istanbul’s Architectural Wonders
We start our day by standing beneath the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, a 6th-century Byzantine masterpiece that showcases the pinnacle of architectural ingenuity. Lauded as the eighth wonder of the world, the Hagia Sophia’s stunning mosaics and towering minarets will leave you in a state of amazement.
Istanbul Full-Day Guided Tour
Following our exploration of the Hagia Sophia, we cross the street to immerse ourselves in the ethereal beauty of the Blue Mosque. Officially known as the Sultan Ahmet Mosque, this historic monument encapsulates the spirit and grandeur of the Ottoman empire. Its name, the Blue Mosque, is derived from over 20,000 blue Iznik tiles that adorn its exterior and interior. A personal tour will help you appreciate its rich history in greater depth.
Istanbul Full-Day Guided Tour
Istanbul Full-Day Guided Tour
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Journey through Time at the Hippodrome
After taking in the majesty of these mosques, we travel back in time to the Hippodrome, a testament to Istanbul’s ancient history. Originally constructed as a sports arena for chariot racing during Egyptian times, the Hippodrome still houses remnants from its colorful past.
A Shopping Paradise: The Grand Bazaar
An exploration of Istanbul would be incomplete without a visit to the Grand Bazaar. A bustling hub of commerce, the Grand Bazaar is the ideal place to experience Istanbul’s vibrancy firsthand. With nearly 4,000 stalls selling everything from high-quality leather goods to an assortment of spices and mouth-watering sweets, you’re bound to find something that catches your eye.
Unearth Roman History at the Şerefiye Cistern
Post lunch, we delve into the hidden depths of the Şerefiye Cistern, a Roman-era water reservoir built by Emperor Theodosius II. Recently unearthed and restored, this marvel is a testament to the architectural prowess of ancient times.
Key Highlights of the Tour
- Stand under the magnificent Hagia Sophia.
- Absorb the historic beauty of the Blue Mosque.
- Engage in a delightful bargain hunt at the Grand Bazaar.
Inclusions
- Entrance fees to all mentioned museums.
- Pick-up and drop-off service from hotel (if option selected).
- Lunch (if option selected).
Things to Keep in Mind
- Interior visits to the Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque) may be limited due to maintenance.
- Duration of the tour may be influenced by Istanbul’s traffic.
- Alternate museums will be visited on days when Hagia Sophia Museum and the Grand Bazaar are closed.
- Comfortable shoes and a scarf are recommended for the tour.
- This is primarily a walking tour with a licensed guide exploring Istanbul’s old city district, not a sightseeing bus tour.
Join us on this immersive journey and take away unforgettable memories of Istanbul’s historic grandeur and bustling contemporary culture.
