Byzantine & Ottoman Relics (Full Day Old City Tour by Walk)

Istanbul the dearest capital of many civilizations… Prepare to be mesmerized by its magnificent history and architecture.  Be astonished over the mighty Hagia Sophia, explore how the Blue Mosque got its famous fame, and be a witness to the history of ancient many heritages.

Highlights:

You will be picked up from your hotel in the city center and meet your guide at a common point. Then you will visit the Hippodrome, Hagia Sophia Museum, and Grand Covered Bazaar, one of the most iconic structures of Istanbul.

-The Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque

This structure, which is accepted as a heritage of humanity for the whole world, has always been and will continue to be the center of attention of domestic and foreign tourists. Having unique architecture, Hagia Sophia has served as both a cathedral, a church, a museum, and a mosque. The Byzantine Empire did not inherit Hagia Sophia only to the historical peninsula. It is the common heritage left to all humanity.

-Hippodrome

This square, where various organizations such as parades and chariot races were held during the Byzantine Empire, contains many important historical buildings around it. Today it is known as Sultanahmet Square.

-Blue Mosque

Known as the Blue Mosque by foreign tourists due to the color of its tiles, the Sultanahmet Camii has magnificent architecture. The reason for this is the Byzantine architectural inspiration it received from its neighbor Hagia Sophia.

-The Grand Covered Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is the place where the heart of shopping beats, which is very popular among foreign tourists coming to Istanbul. It is lively and crowded at all hours of the day. It includes many alternative products such as traditional Turkish carpets, souvenirs, ceramic products, and leather garments.

-Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace is one of the most important touristic places in Istanbul. The empire, which lasted 600 years, was ruled by this palace for 400 years. It was built by Fatih Sultan Mehmed (Mehmed II) and used as the administrative, educational and artistic center of the Ottoman Empire. Topkapi Palace covers an area of approximately 300 thousand square meters. It is considered one of the largest palace museums in the world with its unique Ottoman architecture, collections, and approximately 300,000 archive documents.

-Hagia Irene Church

Hagia Irene Church is known as one of the first churches built by the Byzantine Empire in Istanbul. The name means holy peace in Greek. It was the second-largest church in the empire after Hagia Sophia. In addition, Hagia Irene is the only church with an atrium that has survived the Byzantine Empire. It is located inside the Topkapi Palace and today serves as a museum.

Important Note:

-This tour is not operated on Tuesdays and Fridays.
-This tour is a walking and within-group tour.