Tour Overview
Explore Istanbul's two most important historical periods, the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, to fully appreciate the city's rich past. Discover all the important historical sites, such as Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet), Topkapi Palace, Hippodrome, Little Hagia Sophia Mosque, and Grand Bazaar, by joining our full-day Istanbul Historical Tour. Step back in time and take in the Hippodrome square, the intricate mosaics of the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, which once served as the residence of the Ottoman Empire's most powerful Sultans for centuries. This will give you a true sense of what ancient Istanbul was like.
Highlights
Itinerary
After breakfast, the tour will depart for a gorgeous Istanbul City Tour. The first stop is the Topkapi Palace; the great palace of the Ottoman Sultans from the 15th to the 19th centuries. At the same time, it houses an exquisite collection of crystal, silver, and Chinese porcelain, robes worn by the sultans and their families, the famous jewels of the imperial treasury, miniatures, and the holy mantle, enshrining relics of the Prophet Mohammed.
The second stop of the tour is Sultanahmet Square, where the Sultanahmet Mosque salutes the Hagia Sophia. The Sultanahmet Imperial Mosque, which was built in the 16th century by the architect Mehmet, is also known as the Blue Mosque because of its magnificent interior decoration of blue Iznik tiles. Next, the tour will explore the Hippodrome; the site of ancient chariot races, and the home of three ancient monuments; the Obelisk of Theodosius, the bronze Serpent Column, and the Column of Constantine. When you reach the other end of the Hippodrome, the Hagia Sophia Mosque will meet you with all its grandeur.
After a delectable lunch break, TSG will take you to the bazaar, where you can find exotic spices and herbs, Turkish Baklava, delicious Turkish Delights, Turkish Coffee, nuts and fruits, hand made souvenirs, and more.
Our services end with transportation. Please remember that you can sign up to take advantage of TSG credits, and this is the best way to snag credits and use them for your next trips as a discount.
Please note: Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays, the Bascilica Cistern can be an alternative. Please contact your consultant for details. Remember to bring a headscarf when visiting religious sites such as the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia Mosque.
Trip includes
Included
Professional English-speaking tour guides
Guiding Method
Fully guided
Return transfer to your hotel
Transportation in a fully air-conditioned, non-smoking coach
Guided Special Historical Site of Istanbul Tour
All entrance fees mentioned in the itinerary
Excluded
Lunch
Insurance: All types
Personal expenses: Lunches, extras at hotel or additional meals
Tipping: Tips for guides and drivers
City Tax
Availability
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Book the tour by paying only 25% upfront, and settle the remaining amount 30 days before the tour departure.
Request a Private, Customizable Departure
By design, this is a group tour. You can however request a private, customized version of this tour for yourself or your private group of people. Private departures are usually more expensive, but come with these benefits:
Personal
Itinerary can be tweaked and customized.
Protected
Travel withing your own bubble.
Professional
Access our Travel Specialists insider knowledge.
Privacy
Enjoy a tour focused solely on you or your travel group.
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