Istanbul Full Day City Tour (Byzantium and Ottoman Relics)
Uncover the layered history of Istanbul on this full-day Byzantium and Ottoman Relics Tour. From the architectural wonders of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque to the imperial grandeur of Topkapi Palace and the vibrant maze of the Grand Bazaar, this tour connects you with the city’s rich past. Guided by a professional expert, you’ll explore ancient landmarks, shop in centuries-old markets, and enjoy an authentic Turkish lunch—all in one unforgettable day.
- Comprehensive Day Tour: Visit Istanbul’s most iconic Byzantine and Ottoman-era sites in one go.
- Top Attractions Included: Explore Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar.
- Expert Local Guide: Gain historical insight and cultural context from a licensed, English-speaking guide.
- Convenient Transfers: Includes hotel pick-up and drop-off for centrally located hotels.
What's Included
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off (for centrally located hotels)
- Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
- Professional, English-speaking tour guide
- Entrance fees to scheduled sites
- Lunch at a local restaurant
What's Not Included
- Personal expenses
- Drinks at lunch
Approximate Pick-up Time: 08:30 (dependent on hotel location)
Tour Duration: Full Day
Hotel Pick-up & Drop-off: Included (for centrally located hotels)
Istanbul City Tour Itinerary
- Hotel Pick-Up (08:30):Our staff will collect you from your centrally located hotel at the designated time. Transfer to the meeting point where you’ll meet the rest of the group and your professional, English-speaking tour guide.
- Hagia Sophia:Commence the day at this architectural icon, built by Emperor Constantine in the 4th century and later rebuilt by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century. Renowned for its grand dome and intricate mosaics, Hagia Sophia stands as a defining masterpiece of Byzantine construction.
- Hippodrome:Walk the grounds of what was once Constantinople’s social and sporting heart, where chariot races and public events took place. Admire surviving monuments:
- German Fountain of Wilhelm II
- Obelisk of Theodosius
- Serpentine Column
- Column of Constantine
Each artifact narrates a different facet of the Hippodrome’s storied legacy.
- Blue Mosque:Across from Hagia Sophia, this 17th-century marvel—built under Sultan Ahmet—features six minarets and a magnificent interior adorned with tens of thousands of blue Iznik tiles, giving it its popular name. Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of one of Istanbul’s most photographed landmarks.
- Grand Covered Bazaar:Traverse the captivating alleys of one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. Home to over 4,000 shops, it boasts entire streets dedicated to goldsmiths, carpets, ceramics, and more. Your guide will share tips on bargaining and highlight unique artisanal crafts worth exploring.
- Lunch Break:Enjoy a midday pause at a local restaurant where you can savor authentic Turkish cuisine. Relish the distinct flavors while recharging for the afternoon segment of the tour.
- Topkapi Palace:Formerly the seat of Ottoman sultans between the 15th and 19th centuries, this sprawling palace complex houses sacred relics, glittering jewels, and opulent halls. Stroll through intricately designed courtyards and learn about courtly life.
- End of Tour & Return to Hotel:Following your immersion in Byzantine and Ottoman history, you’ll be transported back to your hotel. Expect to arrive in the late afternoon or early evening, depending on traffic and seasonal conditions.
- Pick-up Time: Approximately 08:30 (exact time depends on hotel location).
- Please note that Topkapı Palace is closed on Tuesdays, therefore tours are not available on that day.
- Due to Friday prayers, the Blue Mosque is not open to visitors during certain hours, and tours are not available at that time.
- Please note that the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays, so the Grand Bazaar visit will be excluded from the Sunday program.
- Looking for a more exclusive experience? Private Istanbul Full Day City Tour (Byzantium and Ottoman Relics) is available as a private tour. Enjoy full flexibility, personal guide attention, and a schedule that fits you. Book now and make it truly yours.
Experience this tour with a personal guide and flexible scheduling tailored just for you
This tour has a private option
Private Istanbul Full Day City Tour (Byzantium and Ottoman Relics)
Private full-day Istanbul tour with licensed guide. Visit Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque,…
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Topkapi Palace was so grand. The relics inside are fascinating. I could have spent hours there.
Really detailed tour. My favorite part was hearing about the different layers of history in one place.
Great pacing and organization. The mosque, palace and bazaar were all spectacular. Make sure to wear comfy shoes as there's a lot of walking!
Every corner of this tour was rich with stories. From the Hippodrome to Topkapi, you get a sense of the empires that ruled this city. It's like stepping through time. A must-do!
For me the tour was started with hotel pick and ended with hotel drop off, they were on time, Lunch was great, visiting the place with a professional tour guide was also grea because, you learm many about those place. Recommend this trip for Istanbul and its history.
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