Istanbul Old City Tour

You will meet with your guide at hotel lobby or cruise port and start your Istanbul Classic Old City Tour;

The Hagia Sophia (the Church of “Holy Wisdom”) was originally constructed as an Eastern Orthodox cathedral in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian, after the Ottoman conquer of Istanbul in 1453, cathedral was converted into a mosque. The building is known for its impressive dome and intricate mosaic decorations and is an important example of Byzantine architecture. It has a long history and has played a significant role in the cultural and political life of Istanbul.

The Topkapi Palace was the primary residence and administrative headquarter of the Ottoman Sultans for nearly 400 years. The palace is known for its elaborate and ornate architecture, which reflects a blend of Ottoman, Islamic, and Byzantine styles. It is situated on a hill overlooking the Bosphorus Strait and the Sea of Marmara and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and pavillons. The palace complex is made up of several buildings, including the Harem, the Treasury, the Holy Relics and the Imperial Council chambers.

The Roman Hippodrome of Istanbul is a historic chariot racing stadium that was built in the 4th century AD by the Roman Emperor Constantine the Great. It was a major center of entertainment in the city and could hold up to 100,000 spectators. The hippodrome was also used for other public events, such as parades, ceremonies, and executions.Today, only a small portion of the original hippodrome remains, including the obelisk of Egypt and the Serpent Column from Delphi.

The Basilica Cistern was built in the 6th century AD by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I to provide a water supply for the city. The cistern is an impressive feat of engineering, measuring over 100 meters long and 50 meters wide, and is supported by 336 columns arranged in 12 rows. The columns are adorned with intricate carvings and many are topped with capitals from other ancient buildings. The cistern is filled with water and is illuminated by soft lighting, which creates a unique and atmospheric environment.

The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, was built in the early 17th century and is an important example of Ottoman architecture. The mosque is named for the blue tiles that adorn its interior walls and is known for its six minarets and grand dome. The interior of the mosque is adorned with intricate patterns and designs and is lit by more than 200 stained-glass windows.

The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with over 60 streets and thousands of shops. The bazaar is known for its colorful and vibrant atmosphere. It is a major center of trade in Istanbul and is a great place to find a wide variety of goods, including textiles, jewelry, ceramics, and spices.

Once you complete your private tour end of day, then your private guide can accompany you on the way back to your hotel or port.

Note: This tour will be operated as walking tour because the sites are closer to each other. But if your hotel is not centrally located, booking a private van is recommended from and back to your hotel or port.