Istanbul Classical Full-Day Tour

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ID: GYG10823-10823
Category:
Country: Turkey

Duration: 08:00 hours


Description

Explore the history of Istanbul by visiting Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome, Topkapi Palace, The Grand Bazaar and many more historical sights. Delve into the culture of this unique city with a guide by your side.
Your guide will pick you up from your hotel and guide you through the city to explore the following places in depth:

First you will visit Hagia Sophia.This ancient Basilica was built by Constantine the Great in the 4th century and reconstructed by Justinin in the 6th century. It is one of the architectural marvels of all time.

The Blue Mosque is one of the best examples of Ottoman and Turkish art, built between 1609 and 1616 by the Architect Mehmet Aga. The mosque takes its name from the blue Iznik tiles which decorate its walls spelndidly.

The ancient Hippodrome, where chariot races took place in the center of Byzantine political life, stands in the open space in front of the Blue Mosque.

This area, now called Sultanahmet, was once home to a series of historic monuments. Of the monuments which once stood only three remain, the Obelisk of the Theodosius, the Serpentine Column and the Column on Constantine.

Look forward to experiencing the bustling atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar.

In this labyrinth of streets and passages there are more than 4000 shops with each trade having its own area, selling mostly gold, silver and Turkish handicrafts.

Afterwards you will see Topkapi Palace, the great palace of the Ottoman Sultans from the 15th to 19th centuries. It houses an exqusite collection of crystal, silver and Chinese porcelain, and the Holy Mantle containing relics of the Prophet Mohammed.

Another highlight of this tour is the Suleymaniye Mosque, built between 1550 and 1557 by the famous architect Sinan.

We will have a stop for lunch around midday and the tour will finish with a drop-off at your hotel.

Highlights

  • Explore the history of Istanbul by visiting Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome, Topkapi Palace and many more
  • Shop till you drop in the Grand Bazaar
  • Knowledgeable and professional commentary from your local tour guide

Guiding languages

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
• Hagia Sophia is closed on Mondays, Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays, will be replaced by Basilica Cistern.
• 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
Hotel pickup is available only from hotels located in the city center.
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.