Historic Istanbul Half-Day Sightseeing Tour

  • 0
ID: GYG10821-10821
Category:
Country: Turkey

Duration: 03:30 hours


Description

Discover the must-see sights of Istanbul on a 4-hour tour of its historic landmarks. Go to the Haghia Sophia and iconic Blue Mosque, marvel at the Hippodrome and experience the bustle of the Grand Bazaar, all with full explanations from a local guide.
Discover the historic sites of Istanbul on a half-day sightseeing tour with round-trip transfers from centrally located hotels. A local guide will accompany you all the way, starting at the Hagia Sophia.

Learn about the ancient Basilica that was started by Constantine the Great in the 4th century, and completed by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century. For 1,000 years it was the world’s largest cathedral. Today, it has been converted to a museum. Admire the impressive dome and minarets, as well as the beautiful mosaics, sculptures and columns inside.

Your next stop will be the legendary Sultan Ahmed Mosque, better known around the world as the Blue Mosque. Get up close to this symbol of Istanbul and see the vibrant blue tiles that adorn its interior walls. Stroll around its beautiful courtyard, and see the 6 graceful minarets.

Continue to the Hippodrome, site of chariot races during the Byzantine Empire. Admire the 3 remaining monuments; the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column, and the Column of Constantine. End with a walk around the labyrinthine Grand Bazaar to haggle for bargains among some 4,000 jewelry, pottery, spices, carpet, and leather stores.

Highlights

  • Explore the landmark sights of central Istanbul
  • Visit the Haghia Sophia, one of the world's architectural masterpieces
  • Marvel at the vibrant blue of the Sultan Ahmed Mosque
  • Go to the former Hippodrome of Byzantine chariot races
  • Lose yourself among the spice and jewelry stalls of the Grand Bazaar

Guiding languages

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
• The Blue Mosque is being renovated until end of 2020 so some parts of the ceiling might be temporarily covered.
All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
You must keep social distance while in vehicles
The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
You are required to bring and wear a mask
You will receive a mandatory temperature check
Your hotel/accommodation in the Sultanahmet and Taksim areas of Istanbul.
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED

When should I book?

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.


Cancellations

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 48 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 48 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.