Istanbul City Tour w/ Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace

Start the tour in Sultanahmet Square, the heart of Istanbul’s old city, with a rich history dating back to the Byzantine and Ottoman eras. This square, once the site of chariot races in the Hippodrome of Constantinople, is surrounded by magnificent landmarks and monuments.
Highlights: Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpent Column, and the German Fountain. These historical relics offer a glimpse into the city’s Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman heritage.

The tour then takes visitors to the iconic Blue Mosque, officially known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque. Famous for its stunning blue tiles and impressive domes, the mosque is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture. Participants can appreciate the intricate details and serene atmosphere of this historical religious site.

The tour often kicks off at the Hippodrome, once the heart of Byzantine Constantinople. Visitors can marvel at the historic monuments within the Hippodrome, including the Egyptian Obelisk, Serpent Column, and Constantine Column. The guide shares stories about the chariot races and political events that unfolded in this ancient arena.

From Hagia Sophia, walk to Topkapi Palace, the primary residence of Ottoman sultans for over 400 years. This sprawling palace complex offers a window into the lavish lifestyle of the sultans and the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire.

Conclude the tour with a visit to the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, dating back to the 15th century. With thousands of shops offering everything from carpets, textiles, and jewelry to spices and souvenirs, the Grand Bazaar is a sensory delight.

Next on the itinerary is the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, a structure with a rich history as a church, mosque, and museum. Participants have the opportunity to explore the architectural marvel of Hagia Sophia, discovering its intricate mosaics, impressive dome, and the blending of different religious influences over the centuries.