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Offered languages
- English
- English
Immerse yourself in Istanbul's rich history on this self-guided audio tour that bridges the gap between Asia and Europe, where centuries of trade, culture, and social exchanges have shaped this remarkable city. Walk through the heart of the old city starting at Sultan Ahmet Park, exploring well-preserved structures from multiple eras including the Roman Hippodrome, the controversial Blue Mosque, and the world-famous Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque. This 90-minute journey reveals Istanbul's dramatic past as you marvel at the 3,500-year-old Egyptian Obelisk, learn about Ottoman rulers like Grand Vizier İbrahim Paşa, and discover charming Soğukçeşme Street with its preserved wooden houses. With fascinating insights into Turkish terminology and architectural significance, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for this elegant city where continents and civilizations have met for millennia.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
The tour begins by the big pool in the middle of Sultanahmet Park, between Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque and Blue Mosque. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.
This tour ends at the Milion Stone, the only surviving piece of a very important structure of Constantinopolis, called the Milion.
Itinerary
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Sultan Ahmet Park (Pass by)
This verdant oasis sits at the heart of Istanbul's historic district, surrounded by magnificent monuments from different eras. Stroll through this peaceful park where Byzantine emperors and Ottoman sultans once walked, offering perfect views of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.
Admission ticket free -
German Fountain (Pass by)
The ornate octagonal German Fountain glistens with golden mosaics and intricate Byzantine-inspired designs. Pause at this unique gift from Kaiser Wilhelm II, commemorating his 1898 visit and symbolizing German-Ottoman friendship.
Admission ticket free -
Sultanahmet Square (Pass by)
Once the ancient Hippodrome of Constantinople, this expansive square features monuments spanning millennia of history. Walk across this historical arena where chariot races thrilled crowds and public events shaped the Byzantine Empire.
Admission ticket free -
Obelisk of Theodosius (Pass by)
This perfectly preserved 3,500-year-old Egyptian obelisk towers above Sultanahmet Square, covered in ancient hieroglyphics. Marvel at this remarkable monument brought to Constantinople by Roman emperors, withstanding centuries of earthquakes and conquests.
Admission ticket free -
Serpent Column (Pass by)
The twisted bronze Serpent Column stands as one of antiquity's oldest surviving pieces, created to celebrate a Greek victory over Persians. Examine this ancient relic originally topped with three serpent heads, testament to Byzantine emperors' desire to collect the world's treasures.
Admission ticket free -
Ibrahim Pasha Palace (Pass by)
This elegant stone palace once belonged to the Ottoman Empire's most powerful Grand Vizier, Ibrahim Pasha. Explore the magnificent home-turned-museum where this influential statesman lived before his dramatic fall from grace.
Admission ticket free -
Blue Mosque (Pass by)
Six slender minarets and cascading domes define this breathtaking Ottoman masterpiece with its blue-tiled interior. Discover how Sultan Ahmed's bold architectural vision sparked controversy that changed the skyline of Islam's holiest site in Mecca.
Admission ticket free -
Sultan Ahmet Tomb (Pass by)
The ornate mausoleum houses Sultan Ahmed I and his family beneath exquisite tile work and intricate decorations. Step inside this peaceful resting place of the young sultan who built the Blue Mosque but died at just 27 years old.
Admission ticket free -
The Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, Istanbul (Pass by)
The massive dome of Hagia Sophia seems to float above a symphony of arches, columns, and golden mosaics. Witness the incredible transformation of this architectural marvel from Byzantine church to Ottoman mosque to museum and back to mosque.
Admission ticket free -
Fountain of Ahmet III (Pass by)
This elaborate rococo fountain features ornate calligraphy, intricate carvings, and colorful floral designs. Admire this elegant Ottoman water source that once provided refreshment to worshippers and marked the entrance to Topkapı Palace.
Admission ticket free -
Sogukcesme Sokak (Pass by)
This charming narrow street lined with restored Ottoman-era wooden houses offers a glimpse into historical Istanbul. Wander through this picturesque lane whose name "Cold Fountain Street" comes from a fountain that once provided cool water to passersby.
Admission ticket free -
Milion Stone (Pass by)
This unassuming marble remnant once marked the center of the Byzantine world, the zero point from which all distances in the Empire were measured. Stand at this ancient milestone where all roads truly began, connecting Constantinople to the farthest reaches of the Byzantine realm.
Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- You can navigate most areas with a stroller, but expect to lift it over occasional steps, curbs, and uneven terrain. Some narrow streets like Soğuk Çeşme Sokak may be challenging with larger strollers.
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.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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