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Offered languages
- German
- English
- Italian
- French
- Spanish
Unlock the secrets of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks at your own pace.
Hagia Sophia: The Eighth Wonder
Experience 1,500 years of transformation in one single space. This audio guide will lead you through the transition from a Byzantine cathedral to an Ottoman mosque, pointing out:
The Impossible Dome: Discover the engineering secrets that allow a 180-foot golden dome to appear as if it's floating.
A Sacred Blend: Learn why massive Islamic calligraphy discs hang alongside golden depictions of Jesus and Mary.
The Blue Mosque: An Ottoman Masterpiece
Step into the ultimate architectural challenge. Commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I to rival the grandeur of Hagia Sophia, this mosque is a symphony of light and color:
20,000 İznik Tiles: Get the story behind the handmade ceramic tiles that give the mosque its famous blue glow.
The Six Minaret Scandal: Hear the legendary tale of how the mosque’s unique design once caused a stir in the Islamic world.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Itinerary
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1Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
The Golden Dome: A 6th-century architectural masterpiece that appears to float magically overhead, defying gravity at 180 feet in the air. A Sacred Dialogue of Symbols: Islamic calligraphy discs (the largest in the Islamic world) hanging side-by-side with original Christian mosaics, illustrating Istanbul's dramatic transition from Constantinople. Imperial Artifacts: The massive, ancient alabaster jars from Pergamon, the intricate Lustration Urns, and the historic Emperor's Door where Byzantine rulers once entered. The Upper Galleries: Stunning, up-close vantage points of the golden mosaics (including the famous Deësis mosaic) and a panoramic view of the grand nave below.
1 hour • Admission ticket included -
2Blue Mosque
The Six-Minaret Skyline: A striking exterior feat—being one of the few mosques in the world to feature six towering minarets, designed to rival the grandest architecture of its time. The Blue Interior: A luminous space adorned with over 20,000 handmade İznik ceramic tiles featuring intricate floral motifs, illuminated by 260 stained-glass windows. The Grand Courtyard: The sweeping, monumental forecourt—the largest of all Ottoman mosques—offering the perfect frame for photos of the cascading central domes. The Ancient Hippodrome: Right outside the mosque gates, guests will see remnants of Byzantine history, including the 3,500-year-old Egyptian Obelisk and the bronze Serpent Column.
45 minutes • Admission ticket included
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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