Tour of "Sultan Ahmet Center", the heart of the "Old City" from where the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires were ruled. Hagia Sophia, the Church of the Divine Wisdom, one of the greatest marvels of architecture, constructed as a basilica in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian. Blue Mosque, facing Hagia Sophia, famous with its blue Iznik tiles and unique with 6 minarets, built in the name of Sultan Ahmet.
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 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).
Lunch at a typical Turkish Restaurant. Dolmabahçe Palace, recent residence for Ottoman Sultans built by two Ottoman architects Karabet and Nikogos Balyan on a 110.000 m² area and served as the main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire. Famous with great collection of European antiquity, furniture and 4.5 tons chandelier, the palace has 285 rooms and 46 halls.
Bosphorus Bridge, unique chance to step from one continent (Europe) to another (Asia) in 2 minutes. Çamlica Hill, famous for its beautiful sunset and the widest bird’s eye panoramic view of Istanbul from Marmara Sea to the Black Sea, gives a chance to see the Bosphorus and Golden Horn from one of the highest and most appealing places of the city.
Meeting/pick-up point: Pick-up at the hotel.
Duration: Eight hours.
Start/opening time: At 8.25am.
Languages: English, French, Spanish, Italian and German. Please inform in which languagae do you want to join.
Others: Grand Covered Bazaar is closed on Sundays and replaced with authentic shops around Grand Bazaar. Dolmabahçe Palace is closed on Monday and Thursday and replaced with Eyüp + Pierre Loti Coffee House + Miniatürk.