Itinerary
- Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque: Hagia Sophia, the Church of Divine Wisdom, one of the greatest marvels of architecture, constructed as a basilica in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian
- Blue Mosque: Blue Mosque, facing Hagia Sophia, famous with its blue İznik tiles and unique with 6 minarets,
built in the name of Sultan Ahmet. - Hippodrome: Hippodrome, center of sportive events (chariot races, athletics) and political activities of the old city. Serpentine Column, Obelisk of Theodosius and German Fountain of Wilhelm II are the monuments decorating the Hippodrome.
- Grand Bazaar Jewelers: Grand Covered Bazaar, most attractive shopping center and the biggest "souk" in the world
with nearly 4000 shops selling antiques, jewellery, gold, carpets, leatherware and souvenir.
(Art demonstration of handmade Turkish carpets upon request)
Includes
- Hotel pickup is possible only for morning tour from selected city center hotels
- Professional guide
- Guaranteed to skip the long lines
- Gratuities
- Drop Off
- Landing and facility fees
- Hagia Sophia Museum entrance fee is not included
Details
Tour Itinerary – Highlights of Old Istanbul
Begin your journey in the very heart of old Istanbul: Sultanahmet Square. Once the grand hippodrome of Constantinople, where chariot races and imperial ceremonies took place, today it remains a lively square filled with history and charm.
✨ What You’ll See:
Hippodrome of Constantinople – once the sporting and social center of the Byzantine Empire
Serpentine Column & Obelisk of Theodosius – ancient monuments that still stand proudly
German Fountain – a 19th-century gift from Kaiser Wilhelm II
Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque) – an iconic masterpiece of Ottoman architecture
Hagia Sophia – admire from the outside (inside visit optional with extra ticket)
Grand Bazaar – one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets
(Optional) Stop at a local outlet store before the Grand Bazaar to compare prices
This route combines Istanbul’s must-see landmarks with hidden stories of history, making it perfect for first-time visitors.
Begin your journey in the very heart of old Istanbul: Sultanahmet Square. Once the grand hippodrome of Constantinople, where chariot races and imperial ceremonies took place, today it remains a lively square filled with history and charm.
✨ What You’ll See:
Hippodrome of Constantinople – once the sporting and social center of the Byzantine Empire
Serpentine Column & Obelisk of Theodosius – ancient monuments that still stand proudly
German Fountain – a 19th-century gift from Kaiser Wilhelm II
Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque) – an iconic masterpiece of Ottoman architecture
Hagia Sophia – admire from the outside (inside visit optional with extra ticket)
Grand Bazaar – one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets
(Optional) Stop at a local outlet store before the Grand Bazaar to compare prices
This route combines Istanbul’s must-see landmarks with hidden stories of history, making it perfect for first-time visitors.
Know Before You Go
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
- A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
- Please confirm your reservation for pick up time and your hotel details
- Grand Covered Bazaar is closed on Sundays and replaced with and authantic shops around Grand Bazaar
