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Offered languages
- German
- English
- Spanish
Tour Itinerary – Highlights of Old Istanbul
Begin your journey in the very heart of old Istanbul: Sultanahmet Square. Once the grand hippodrome of Constantinople, where chariot races and imperial ceremonies took place, today it remains a lively square filled with history and charm.
✨ What You’ll See:
Hippodrome of Constantinople – once the sporting and social center of the Byzantine Empire
Serpentine Column & Obelisk of Theodosius – ancient monuments that still stand proudly
German Fountain – a 19th-century gift from Kaiser Wilhelm II
Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque) – an iconic masterpiece of Ottoman architecture
Hagia Sophia – admire from the outside (inside visit optional with extra ticket)
Grand Bazaar – one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets
(Optional) Stop at a local outlet store before the Grand Bazaar to compare prices
This route combines Istanbul’s must-see landmarks with hidden stories of history, making it perfect for first-time visitors.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
We will be picking up travelers if hotel is along the road but if in narrow streets, we recommend to go to the meeting point.
Tour will start in front of Tamara Restaurant at 08:30 or 13:30
Itinerary
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1Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
Hagia Sophia, the Church of Divine Wisdom, one of the greatest marvels of architecture, constructed as a basilica in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian
40 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
2Blue Mosque
Blue Mosque, facing Hagia Sophia, famous with its blue İznik tiles and unique with 6 minarets, built in the name of Sultan Ahmet.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3Hippodrome
Hippodrome, center of sportive events (chariot races, athletics) and political activities of the old city. Serpentine Column, Obelisk of Theodosius and German Fountain of Wilhelm II are the monuments decorating the Hippodrome.
40 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4Grand Bazaar Jewelers
Grand Covered Bazaar, most attractive shopping center and the biggest "souk" in the world with nearly 4000 shops selling antiques, jewellery, gold, carpets, leatherware and souvenir. (Art demonstration of handmade Turkish carpets upon request)
1 hour • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
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Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
- A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
- Please confirm your reservation for pick up time and your hotel details
- Grand Covered Bazaar is closed on Sundays and replaced with and authantic shops around Grand Bazaar
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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