Istanbul's Sultanahmet District Tour

Información

Enjoy a Full Day tour of the Sultanahmet area which is the UNESCO recognized heart of old Istanbul. Our local guide takes us to Hagia Sophia. Built in 537 AD as the world's first large dome building, it was the religious focal point of the Orthodox Church before its conversion to a Muslim Mosque. We have a look at its many unique decorations from the Byzantine and Turkish periods.

Then we enjoy a short walk to the Blue Mosque. Built in 17th century it owes its fame to the exquisite blue Iznik tiles on its walls. Following this, we move on to the Hippodrome where we can see an Egyptian Obelisk and Serpent Column where once horse chariot races of the Eastern Roman Empire took place. Next, you will see the German Fountain which was a gift of Kaiser Wilhelm 2. Listen to the stories of his liaison with the Orient.

We then go to the fascinating Grand Bazaar. Following an introduction by our guide at a recommended store we will have some free time to browse the 1,200 spice, gold, carpet and leather shops.

After lunch at a local restaurant we visit the amazing Topkapi Palace which from 15th to the 19th Century was the principle residence of the Turkish Ottoman Empire. Our guide gives a tour at the gardens halls where we view a staggering collection of Imperial and religious treasury, golden thrones and emerald crowns. Next place to see is Hagia Irene Church (from outside). Our final place of interest is the Church of Sergius and Bacchus today known as “Petit Hagia Sophia Mosque”.

After the tour transfer back to the hotel.

Meeting/pick-up point: Hotel pick-up.
Duration: Approximately 8 hours.
Start/opening time: At 8:15am.
Others: Included: admission fees for Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, and lunch.
Hagia Sophia is closed on Mondays. It will be replaced with Chora Museum. Topkapi Palace Museum is closed on Tuesdays. It will be replaced with Chora Museum. Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.