Step into the heart of history with this full-day guided Istanbul Old City Tour of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. Wander through the Hippodrome, marvel at the Hagia Sophia Mosque, admire the Blue Mosque’s breathtaking beauty, explore the opulent Topkapi Palace, and shop in the vibrant Grand Bazaar. Led by an expert guide, this immersive tour unveils the rich heritage of Byzantine and Ottoman Istanbul—a journey through time you’ll never forget!
Full description
🏛️ Highlights of Istanbul Old City Tour
✔️ Walk through the legendary Hippodrome, once the beating heart of Byzantine Constantinople.
✔️ Explore the Hagia Sophia Mosque, an architectural masterpiece bridging two civilizations.
✔️ Marvel at the Blue Mosque, a stunning display of Ottoman grandeur.
✔️ Discover the Topkapi Palace, the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans.
✔️ Get lost in the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and most vibrant markets.
✔️ Visit the Hagia Irene Church, a hidden gem of Byzantine history.
🌍 Discover the Timeless Wonders of Istanbul’s Old City
Step into the pages of history as you embark on a mesmerizing journey through Istanbul’s Old City, where East meets West in a stunning fusion of culture, history, and architecture. This immersive full-day guided tour takes you through the most iconic landmarks of Byzantine and Ottoman Istanbul, revealing the city’s rich heritage, grand palaces, and legendary mosques.
From the ancient Hippodrome to the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, every corner of this city tells a story waiting to be uncovered.
📜 A Day in the Heart of Istanbul – What to Expect
🏛️ The Hippodrome – Where History Races Through Time
Begin your journey at the Hippodrome of Constantinople, a grand arena that once hosted chariot races, gladiator fights, and imperial ceremonies. While its glory days are long past, remnants like the Obelisk of Theodosius and the Serpent Column still stand as silent witnesses to history.
🕌 Hagia Sophia – The Crown Jewel of Istanbul
Next, step inside the Hagia Sophia Mosque, a breathtaking symbol of Byzantine and Ottoman grandeur. Built in 537 AD by Emperor Justinian I, this architectural marvel has transformed from a cathedral to a mosque, then to a museum, and back to a mosque again. The fusion of towering domes, intricate mosaics, and Islamic calligraphy makes it one of the world’s most extraordinary structures. (Entrance fee: €25 – Skip the line with our guide!)
🕌 The Blue Mosque – Ottoman Majesty in Every Detail
Gaze upon the Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultanahmet Mosque, famed for its six minarets, cascading domes, and breathtaking blue Iznik tiles that adorn its interiors. Still an active place of worship, it welcomes visitors to experience its serene ambiance and stunning craftsmanship. (Modest attire is required; scarves and covers available for purchase at the entrance.)
🏰 Topkapi Palace – Step Into the World of Sultans
Wander through the opulent halls of Topkapi Palace, the residence of Ottoman sultans for over 400 years. From the dazzling Imperial Treasury to the mysterious Harem, this palace holds the secrets of an empire that once ruled three continents. (Entrance fee: €50 – Skip the line with our guide!)
🛍️ The Grand Bazaar – A Shopper’s Paradise Since the 15th Century
Get ready to bargain like a local at the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. With over 4,000 shops selling handwoven carpets, glittering jewelry, exotic spices, and unique antiques, this market is an adventure in itself!
⛪ Hagia Irene Church – A Hidden Treasure of Byzantine Times
Tucked away in the Topkapi Palace complex, the Hagia Irene Church is a rare Byzantine relic that remains untouched by Ottoman conversions. With its ancient frescoes, high domes, and echoes of early Christianity, this site offers a peaceful contrast to the bustling Old City.
📍 Meeting & Pick-Up Details
📌 Hotel Pick-Up Available – We will confirm your pick-up time based on your location.
📌 Sultanahmet Hotels: Due to restricted vehicle access, the guide will meet you at your hotel for a walking pick-up.
⚠️ Important Information
🔹 Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays. No tour is available on this day.
🔹 The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays. Alternative shopping stops will be arranged.
🔹 This tour requires moderate walking. Comfortable shoes are recommended.
🔹 Wheelchair access is not available.
🔄 Flexible Cancellation Policy
✅ Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.
❌ No refund for cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour.
❌ Changes less than 24 hours before the tour will not be accepted.
🌦 If the tour is canceled due to poor weather, you can reschedule or receive a full refund.
📅 Book Your Istanbul Old City Adventure Today!
🕌 Walk through centuries of history, explore legendary landmarks, and immerse yourself in Istanbul’s timeless beauty.
📩 Have questions? Contact us on WhatsApp for quick support!
🚀 Don’t miss out – Reserve your spot now for an unforgettable journey through Istanbul’s historic heart!
Includes
✅ Professional Licensed Tour Guide (English, Spanish, or Russian)
✅ Hotel Pick-Up & Drop-Off (for centrally located hotels)
✅ Air-Conditioned Transportation (except for Sultanahmet hotels, where pick-up is on foot)
✅ Authentic Turkish Lunch at a local restaurant
✅ Walking Tour through historical landmarks
✅ Skip-the-Line Access for Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace when tickets are purchased from our guide
❌ Personal Expenses & Tips
❌ Entrance Fees:
•Hagia Sophia Mosque: €25 per person
•Topkapi Palace: €50 per person
❌ Mosque Attire (Scarves & Body Covers) – Available for purchase at entrances
📍 Istanbul Old City Tour – Full-Day Itinerary
🕘 09:00 AM – Hotel Pick-Up & Meet Your Guide
•Your day begins with a convenient hotel pick-up (for centrally located hotels) and a warm welcome from your professional licensed guide.
🕌 09:30 AM – Hippodrome of Constantinople
•Explore the historic Hippodrome, once the social and sporting center of Byzantine Constantinople.
•See the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpent Column, and the German Fountain, each with fascinating historical significance.
🕌 10:00 AM – Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque)
•Admire the architectural beauty of the Blue Mosque, famous for its six minarets and stunning blue Iznik tiles.
•Learn about the mosque’s Ottoman heritage and its importance in Istanbul’s skyline.
🕌 10:30 AM – Hagia Sophia Mosque
•Visit the world-famous Hagia Sophia Mosque, once a Byzantine cathedral, now a breathtaking place of worship.
•Marvel at its massive domes, intricate mosaics, and Islamic calligraphy. (Skip-the-line ticket available: €25 per person)
🍽 12:00 PM – Traditional Turkish Lunch
•Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, tasting authentic Turkish flavors.
🏰 01:00 PM – Topkapi Palace
•Step inside the lavish Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans.
•Visit the Imperial Treasury, the Harem, and enjoy stunning views of the Bosphorus. (Skip-the-line ticket available: €50 per person)
⛪ 02:30 PM – Hagia Irene Church
•Discover the Hagia Irene Church, one of the oldest Christian churches in Istanbul, known for its Byzantine architecture and serene atmosphere.
🛍 03:00 PM – Grand Bazaar
•Experience the lively Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets.
•Shop for handwoven carpets, jewelry, spices, and souvenirs while enjoying the bustling marketplace vibe.
🚗 04:00 PM – End of Tour & Hotel Drop-Off
•Your unforgettable Istanbul Old City experience concludes with a drop-off back at your hotel.
📅 Total Duration: 8 Hours
📍 Walking Tour with Some Vehicle Transfers
🚀 Book now for a journey through history!
Important information
What to bring
✔️ Comfortable Walking Shoes
✔️ Modest Clothing for Mosques
✔️ Sunscreen & Sunglasses
✔️ Camera or Smartphone
✔️ Small Backpack or Crossbody Bag
✔️ Some Cash (Turkish Lira or Euros)
✔️ Water Bottle
✔️ Weather-Appropriate Clothing
🚀 Get ready for an unforgettable journey through Istanbul’s historic wonders!
Not allowed
❌ Shorts, Sleeveless Tops, or Revealing Clothing in Mosques
❌ Flash Photography Inside Mosques & Museums
❌ Large Luggage or Bulky Bags
❌ Outside Food & Drinks in Museums & Mosques
❌ Drones & Professional Filming Equipment
❌ Smoking in Public Spaces
🚀 Respect the cultural heritage and enjoy a seamless experience in Istanbul’s Old City!
Know before you go
🔹 Moderate Walking Required
🔹 Modest Dress Code for Mosques
🔹 Skip-the-Line Access – To avoid long queues, entrance tickets for Hagia Sophia (€25) and Topkapi Palace (€50) can be purchased directly from our guide.
🔹 No Pick-Up by Vehicle in Sultanahmet Area – If your hotel is in the historic Sultanahmet district, the guide will meet you at your hotel and start the tour on foot.
🔹 Grand Bazaar is Closed on Sundays – Alternative shopping stops will be arranged on Sundays.
🔹 Topkapi Palace is Closed on Tuesdays – This tour is not available on Tuesdays.
🔹 Weather Considerations – Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a water bottle during warm months. In case of rain, bring an umbrella or raincoat.
🔹 Cash or Credit Card for Personal Expenses – While major attractions accept credit cards, small vendors in the Grand Bazaar may prefer cash (Turkish Lira or Euros).
🔹 Tour Duration: 8 Hours – Expect a full day of exploration, including a traditional Turkish lunch and guided storytelling at every stop.
🚀 Book now and immerse yourself in the wonders of Istanbul’s historic Old City!
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How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including hotel pick-up, sightseeing, and a lunch break.
Is hotel pick-up and drop-off included?
✅ Yes, hotel pick-up and drop-off are included for centrally located hotels.
❌ However, if your hotel is in the Sultanahmet area, vehicle pick-up is not available. Instead, our guide will meet you at your hotel and start the tour on foot.
Do I need to buy entrance tickets in advance?
No, you don’t need to buy tickets in advance. Our guide will assist you with skip-the-line ticket purchases on the day of the tour:
•Hagia Sophia Mosque: €25 per person
•Topkapi Palace: €50 per person
What should I wear for the tour?
Since the tour includes visits to religious sites, modest clothing is required:
👕 Men & Women: Shoulders and knees must be covered.
🧕 Women: Must wear a scarf to cover their hair inside mosques. (Scarves & body covers are available for purchase at the mosque entrance.)
Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, the tour is not wheelchair accessible due to uneven terrain and stairs in historic sites.
What language is the tour available in?
The tour is conducted in English by default, but we also offer Spanish and Russian tours on select days. Please contact us to check availability.
Can I bring luggage or large bags?
No, large bags, suitcases, and bulky backpacks are not allowed in museums and mosques due to security reasons.
Is there free time for shopping in the Grand Bazaar?
Yes! You’ll have time to browse and shop at the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest markets.
What happens if it rains?
The tour operates rain or shine. If the weather is severe, you may reschedule or receive a full refund.
What is the cancellation policy?
✅ Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.
❌ No refund for cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour.
❌ Changes less than 24 hours before the tour are not accepted.
🚀 Have more questions? Contact us via WhatsApp – we’re happy to help!
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