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Offered languages
- English
Discover Istanbul’s Must-See Icons—Step by Step
On this essential walking route, you'll journey through the heart of Istanbul’s Old City, where empires rose and fell, and where sacred domes meet bustling bazaars. Begin at the majestic Hagia Sophia, once a church, mosque, and now a symbol of Istanbul’s layered past. Continue to the stunning Blue Mosque, famous for its six minarets and blue İznik tiles. Step into history at the Roman Hippodrome, where chariot races once thrilled Byzantine crowds. End your walk at the legendary Grand Bazaar, a vibrant maze of thousands of shops filled with local crafts, textiles, and delights.
Explore Istanbul’s top sights in one seamless route
Stories of empires, sultans, and timeless architecture
A curated experience blending Istanbul’s highlights with historical depth
A relaxed pace with expert guidance
Great for first-timers and lovers of culture, history, and local life
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Caferağa Medrese, behind Hagia Sophia, near Sultanahmet Tram Station. Please make sure to arrive at least 10 minutes before the scheduled start time to ensure a smooth and timely departure. If you anticipate any delays, kindly contact us in advance.
The tour concludes at Istanbul’s iconic and historic Grand Bazaar. Participants can enjoy free time for shopping or easily access other parts of the city using public transportation from this central location.
Itinerary
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1Caferaga Medresesi
Hidden in the shadow of Hagia Sophia, this 16th-century Ottoman medrese welcomes us into the artistic soul of the old city. Designed by Mimar Sinan, it once served as a religious school. Today, its peaceful courtyard is home to traditional crafts and local artists. A calm and authentic place to begin our journey into Istanbul’s past.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2Ayasofya Camii
Where East meets West, and heaven meets stone. Once a church, then a mosque, then a museum, and now a mosque again—Hagia Sophia is not just architecture, it’s transformation carved into marble. You’ll hear the legends, see the shimmering mosaics, and feel the weight of empires under its massive dome.
1 hour • Admission ticket not included -
3Blue Mosque
Standing tall with its six minarets and blue-tiled elegance, the Blue Mosque is the Ottoman answer to Byzantine grandeur. We’ll step inside this 17th-century wonder to admire the light, symmetry, and silence—each a lesson in sacred geometry. It’s where art and devotion blend seamlessly.
45 minutes • Admission ticket free -
Hippodrome (Pass by)
Step into history at the Roman Hippodrome, where chariot races once thrilled Byzantine crowds.
Admission ticket free -
4Grand Bazaar
A city within the city, with 4,000 shops and centuries of commerce echoing through its lanes. The Grand Bazaar is more than a market—it's a cultural maze where spices, silks, jewels, and stories are traded alike. We'll explore the quieter corners, meet local artisans, and get lost in Istanbul's heartbeat.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Not recommended for travelers with leg or knee problems
- Older travelers should exercise caution
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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