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Offered languages
- English
The Istanbul half day tour is a perfect option for those with limited time who still want to immerse themselves in the city's cultural and historical wonders. With convenient pick-up services, knowledgeable guides, and inclusive entrance fees to the Hippodrome, Hagia Sophia, and the Blue Mosque, this tour ensures a fulfilling and insightful exploration of Istanbul's captivating past.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Important Pickup Information 1 Pickup times may vary depending on your hotel's location. Our operations team will contact you one day before your tour, between 20:30 – 21:30, to confirm your exact pickup time. 2 During peak seasons or heavy traffic, pickup may be delayed by up to 10 minutes. If this happens, please be patient. If the delay exceeds 10 minutes, kindly inform your supplier immediately. 3 Please be ready at least 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup time. The pickup will be from the front gate, hotel lobby, or reception area.
Itinerary
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1Sultanahmet Square
Start the tour in Sultanahmet Square, the heart of Istanbul’s old city, with a rich history dating back to the Byzantine and Ottoman eras. This square, once the site of chariot races in the Hippodrome of Constantinople, is surrounded by magnificent landmarks and monuments. Highlights: Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpent Column, and the German Fountain. These historical relics offer a glimpse into the city’s Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman heritage.
1 hour • Admission ticket not included -
2Blue Mosque
The tour then takes visitors to the iconic Blue Mosque, officially known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque. Famous for its stunning blue tiles and impressive domes, the mosque is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture. Participants can appreciate the intricate details and serene atmosphere of this historical religious site.
2 hours • Admission ticket free -
3Hippodrome
The tour often kicks off at the Hippodrome, once the heart of Byzantine Constantinople. Visitors can marvel at the historic monuments within the Hippodrome, including the Egyptian Obelisk, Serpent Column, and Constantine Column. The guide shares stories about the chariot races and political events that unfolded in this ancient arena.
2 hours • Admission ticket not included -
4TopkapI Palace
From Hagia Sophia, walk to Topkapi Palace, the primary residence of Ottoman sultans for over 400 years. This sprawling palace complex offers a window into the lavish lifestyle of the sultans and the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire.
1 hour • Admission ticket not included -
5Grand Bazaar
Conclude the tour with a visit to the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, dating back to the 15th century. With thousands of shops offering everything from carpets, textiles, and jewelry to spices and souvenirs, the Grand Bazaar is a sensory delight.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
6Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
Next on the itinerary is the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, a structure with a rich history as a church, mosque, and museum. Participants have the opportunity to explore the architectural marvel of Hagia Sophia, discovering its intricate mosaics, impressive dome, and the blending of different religious influences over the centuries.
1 hour • Admission ticket not included
Additional info
- Service animals allowed
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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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