Best of Istanbul - Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and more!

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Hassle-free

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8 hours (approx.)

Private Tour

Light

Sightseeing/City Tour Archaeological/Cultural Walking Tour Shopping Pre/Post Cruise

Overview

Begin at the St Sophia Mosque, the Byzantine church which served as the cathedral of Constantinople for over a thousand years. Built as an Orthodox patriarchal basilica, the magnificent structure became a mosque in the 15th century.

We will then continue the tour to the Blue Mosque, where we will visit the tomb of its founder, Ahmed 1, and admire the exquisite tiling and decoration. Then we will continue to the former Hippodrome Square, once the center for entertainment and sporting contests in ancient Constantinople, and now the modern Sultanahmet Square.

From here, it's a short stroll to the magnificent Grand Bazaar 'the largest covered market in the world', where you'll have the chance to buy the best that Istanbul has to offer from more than 3,000 stalls selling everything from fine Turkish carpets and jewelry to leather goods and souvenirs, an experience not to be forgotten.

In the afternoon, the tour continues to Topkapi Palace, the former seat of the Ottoman sultans, and now a remarkable museum, containing many beautiful royal treasures and Islamic holy relics. You'll visit the Mosque of Rustem Pasha, famous for its lavish use of rich red Ottoman Iznik tiles, and see ancient Roman walls that have guarded the city for two thousand years.

The tour will come to a close as you look over the city's natural harbor, the Golden Horn, where you'll have time to take pictures and reflect upon your remarkable day in historic Istanbul.

St Sophia's is closed on Mondays, and you will visit the beautiful Chora Church instead, famed for its mosaics and frescoes.

What's Included

Air Conditioned Transportation
English speaking guide
Blue Mosque
Topkapi Palace
Hippodrome Square
Hagia Sophia
Bottled Water

Considerations

Food and drinks are not included
Bring cash and/or credit card for any additional purchases on the day
Gratuities/Tips are not included in your tour, if you would like to leave a tip, please bring cash

Special Instructions

On Mondays, St Sophia is closed and you will visit the Chora Church instead, famed for its mosaics and frescoes
There is a lot of walking involved with this tour, comfortable footwear is recommended. The summer months can get quite warm, please ensure you take plenty of water, protective sun cream and sun hats are recommended
Shoes are not permitted inside the Mosque. A plastic bag will be given to you where you can put your shoes in and carry with you. For your information, the Mosque is carpeted
Men and women cannot enter the Mosque with shorts or sleeveless shirts. Men can wear long trousers and a sleeved shirt. Women may wear slacks or a dress or blouse and skirt (at least below the knees), preferably with elbow-length or longer sleeves (no bare shoulders or upper arms). Women should cover their head with a scarf. No need to cover the face, the covering is meant to hide your hair only. If your dress is not matching these requirements do not worry as you are still able to visit the Mosque. At the entrance of the Mosque, the attendants provide robes and/or scarfs to wear during your visit (this is free of charge)
Bring comfortable and suitable footwear, a camera (there is plenty of photo opportunities), local currency for souvenirs, sunscreen, water, and this printout of your voucher

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup and Dropoff at the Cruise Port Included.

Hassle-free

Cancellation

8 hours (approx.)

Private Tour

Light

Best of Istanbul - Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and more!

Overview

What's Included

Considerations

Special Instructions

Meeting and Pickup

Book Now

Price Info

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