Private Tour of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia & Grand Bazaar & More

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ID: GYG20891-21246
Category:
Country: Turkey

Duration: 08:00 hours


Description

Explore the crossroads of the world in Istanbul with your Private Guide. Discover the majesty of the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, the history of the Hippodrome, and the wonders of Topkapi palace before shopping in the Grand Bazaar.
The morning sun hits your face as you look out across the Bosphorus to a different continent. Here in Istanbul, the crossroads of the world, your day of excitement is just beginning. Today you'll be treated to a full day private tour of this exquisite town.

Begin your journey at the Hagia Sophia. This incredible architectural wonder has stood on these grounds for centuries. For years it was the largest church in the world, but it is the dome that makes it stand out to this day. The church's name means "Divine Wisdom" and you'll soon discover why.

Next, walk across the park to the Blue Mosque. Snap some pictures of the thousands of blue tiles that give this mosque its nickname. In Turkish, they still call it Sultanahmet Mosque, as it stands close to the Topkapi Palace and was used by the leaders of the city during their reign.

After the more "modern" visits, we'll step back in time to the Hippodrome, built in 203 C.E. The Roman Emperor Septimus Severus built these grounds as a place for fun and games, and today they serve as a reminder of Istanbul's long history.

We then head to Topkapi Palace, the home of rulers during the Ottoman Empire. Your guide explains to you its history and you can explore its many rooms filled with incredible relics of the past.

Finally we head out for some shopping in the Grand Bazaar. These nearly 4,000 shops and stalls have everything your heart desires, so try your hand at bartering for the best deals around!

Highlights

  • Discover the wonders of Hagia Sophia
  • Snap some pictures of the tile work in the Blue Mosque
  • Follow your private guide for an amazing history lesson at the Hippodrome
  • Wander the halls of Topkapi Palace
  • Barter for the best deals at the Grand Bazaar

Guiding languages

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Hagia Sophia is closed on Monday, Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesday, the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sunday
Entrance fees are included
Food and drinks are not included
The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
You must keep social distance while in vehicles
All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
You will receive a mandatory temperature check
You are required to bring and wear a mask
You must bring your own headphones
Hotel-Harbour
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.