Istanbul Old City Full-Day Exploration Tour
Istanbul Old City Full-Day Exploration Tour
Embark on a captivating full-day tour of Istanbul's historic heart, where the grandeur of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires unfolds at every turn. Marvel at iconic wonders including the majestic Hagia Sophia, the splendid Topkapı Palace, and the mesmerizing Blue Mosque, before losing yourself in the labyrinthine Grand Bazaar. With convenient pick-up and drop-off by public transport (or on foot from your hotel if nearby), and all major attractions within walking distance, this tour promises a seamless journey back in time. Along the way, enrich your experience with visits to select shops, offering everything from exquisite carpets to luxurious leather goods, ensuring a day of unparalleled exploration and discovery.
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Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Istanbul, capturing the essence of its glorious past on a full-day tour that showcases the city's most iconic landmarks. Dive deep into history as you wander through the ancient streets, visiting remarkable sites that stood witness to the grandeur of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. Marvel at the architectural masterpiece that is Hagia Sophia, explore the regal Topkapı Palace, find serenity at the Blue Mosque, and lose yourself in the endless alleys of the Grand Bazaar.
Our tour offers the convenience of pick-up and drop-off by public transport, such as tram, ensuring a hassle-free experience. For those staying in the vicinity of the main attractions, our guide will meet you on foot, directly at your hotel. As the itinerary is meticulously planned with each site located close to the next, you'll enjoy a leisurely walk through Istanbul's historic heart, immersing yourself in its vibrant culture without the need for additional transport.
Along the way, seize the opportunity to delve into Turkey's rich artisan traditions with visits to select shops. Whether it's the intricate designs of a carpet showroom, the fine craftsmanship at a leather factory, or the sweet allure of Turkish delight, each stop offers a unique glimpse into the local way of life and the chance to take a piece of Istanbul home with you.
Join us to discover the soul of Istanbul, weaving through its most cherished landmarks and hidden gems, for a tour that promises to be as enlightening as it is exhilarating.
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Itinerary
Full-Day Istanbul Old City Highlights Tour
Embark on a journey through the heart of Istanbul to explore the timeless wonders of the old city. This full-day tour showcases the magnificent highlights of Istanbul's rich history, enveloping the eras of both the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. Marvel at the architectural splendor of Hagia Sophia, walk through the grandeur of Topkapı Palace, experience the serenity of the Blue Mosque, and delve into the bustling lanes of the Grand Bazaar, among other iconic attractions.
Tour Details
Pick-up and drop-off will be facilitated by public transportation, such as tram, for participants whose hotels are located outside the main attraction area. However, for those staying within the vicinity of these historical landmarks, the guide will conveniently pick you up on foot. As the main attractions on this tour are in close proximity to one another, you will enjoy a leisurely walk between each visit, immersing you deeper into the city's enchanting atmosphere. Please note, the tour excludes the use of any vehicles apart from the initial pick-up and final drop-off.
Exclusive Shopping Experience
Enhance your tour with visits to select shops, offering you the chance to explore traditional Turkish crafts and delicacies. From exquisite carpets at a renowned showroom to the finest leather at a top factory, and not forgetting the sweet allure of Turkish delight and the sparkle of jewelry, these stops promise a unique shopping experience.
Detailed Itinerary
- Hippodrome: Discover the Hippodrome, once the pulse of sportive activities in Constantinople, adorned with historically significant monuments like the German Fountain of Wilhelm II, the Egyptian Obelisk, and the Column of Constantine.
- Hagia Sophia: Visit the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, a paramount example of architectural brilliance, showcasing its transition from a church, to a mosque, and finally to a museum that captivates visitors from around the globe. (Closed on Monday)
- Blue Mosque: Behold the Blue Mosque, famed for its majestic Ottoman architecture and unique six minarets, a must-visit landmark that stands as a testament to Turkey's historical religious landscape. (Closed on Friday)
- Topkapi Palace: Explore Topkapi Palace, the heart of the Ottoman Empire, offering insights into the imperial treasury, sacred Islamic relics, and more, revealing the opulence and artistry that defined an era. (Closed on Tuesday)
- Grand Bazaar: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, Istanbul's premier shopping destination, brimming with endless opportunities to procure carpets, leather goods, jewelry, and traditional Turkish delights. (Closed on Sunday)
Inclusions & Exclusions
Inclusions
- Professional Licensed Tour Guide
- Hotel Pick Up & Drop Off
- Public Transport Such as Tram
- Insurance
Exclusions
- Food & Drinks
- Personal Expenses
- Driver & Guide Tips – Gratuity
- Admission Fees to Attractions
Important Notes
A full-day tour featuring all the highlights of Istanbul's old city, including Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar. Explore the rich history of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires in Istanbul's heart.
- Pick-up and drop-off are via public transport, like trams.
- If your hotel is in the main attraction area, you will be picked up on foot.
- Main attraction visits are within walking distance of each other, without additional vehicle use besides pick-up and drop-off.
- Opportunities to visit shops such as Carpet showroom and Leather Factory.
- Not stroller accessible.
- Not suitable for pets.
- Infant seats are unavailable.
- Not wheelchair accessible.
- Topkapi Palace entrance fee is 1500 TRY. Skip-the-line tickets available via the guide.
- Hagia Sophia entrance fee is 25 €. Skip-the-line tickets available via the guide.
- For cruise ship guests, the meeting point is in front of the Hafız Mustafa Sweets Shop.