DAY DETAILS
- Breakfast at hotel & proceed to Istanbul City Tour.
- Driver pick-up & tour start between 07:30 – 08:30(The pickup time changes based on the weather and the season).
- The transfer will be on a shared basis (SIC).
- Tour duration approx 7 to 8 hours.
- Lunch included.
- Overnight in Istanbul City.
TOUR IN DETAILS
Exploring the stunning highlights of this incredible city, once known as 'Constantinople,' offers a journey through its rich history as the capital of the Byzantium and Ottoman Empires. Throughout the tour, you'll encounter cultural landmarks that have evolved over time, such as the Hagia Sophia, originally a church, then a mosque, and later a museum. Since 2020, it has functioned as a mosque, while as of the start of 2024, its upper gallery has been reopened as a museum. Additionally, you'll discover ancient ruins and monuments nestled within the city's parks.
BLUE MOSQUE: The Blue Mosque, officially known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is an iconic landmark in Istanbul, Turkey. Its distinctive blue-tiled interior walls give it the nickname "Blue Mosque." Commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I in the early 17th century, the mosque features a stunning architectural design with its cascading domes, six minarets, and a spacious courtyard. It holds significant cultural and religious importance as a place of worship for Muslims. The mosque's interior is adorned with intricate tile work, stained glass windows, and ornate calligraphy, creating a serene and beautiful atmosphere for prayer and reflection. The Blue Mosque is open to visitors outside of prayer times, offering a glimpse into the rich history and architectural grandeur of Istanbul.
HIPPODROME AND OBELISKS: The Hippodrome in Istanbul is an ancient site where chariot races once took place. It's now an open space near the Blue Mosque. You can also see ancient obelisks there, which are tall, narrow pillars with inscriptions on them.
HAGIA SOPHIA MOSQUE: The Hagia Sophia Mosque in Istanbul is a historic landmark known for its impressive architecture. It was built in the 6th century on the orders of Emperor Justinian. Originally a church, it later became a mosque and is now a mosque again. Inside, you'll find beautiful decorations and Ottoman structures in the courtyard.
TOPKAPI PALACE: Topkapi Palace in Istanbul was the main residence of Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. Built in the 15th century, it's a significant historical site. Though it's now a museum, it once housed the administrative offices, as well as living quarters and gardens. (Closed on Tuesdays)
GRAND BAZAAR: The Istanbul Grand Bazaar is a bustling marketplace with thousands of shops and stalls. Built by order of Sultan Mehmet II in the 15th century, it's one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. (Closed on Sundays)
Recommendation: After your tour, make time to explore the Spice Bazaar, where you can indulge in the sights and scents of Turkish tea, spices, and sweets. While not included in your tour package, it's worth the visit. The schedule might change depending on traffic and weather conditions on the day of your activity.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
Grand Bazaar: Closed On Sundays.
Blue Mosque: Inaccessible On Fridays Due To Prayers.
Hagia Sophia Mosque: Inaccessible On Fridays Due To Prayers.
Topkapi Palace: Closed On Tuesdays.