Istanbul Essential Highlights: Hagia Sophia and Cistern and more

5.0
(13 reviews)

4 to 5 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

Discover the vibrant soul of Istanbul on this tailored private tour designed for first-time visitors. Explore iconic landmarks like the magnificent Hagia Sophia, the serene Blue Mosque, and the historic Hippodrome. Delve into the depths of the Basilica Cistern and wander through the lively Grand Bazaar, soaking up the local atmosphere. With the flexibility to customize your itinerary, this tour ensures a personal experience guided by a dedicated licensed expert, revealing the city's hidden gems and bustling streets.

- Tailor your tour itinerary to match your interests and preferences
- Visit top sights including Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and more
- Experience the energy of Istanbul's bazaars and local culture
- Enjoy a private tour with a licensed guide for personalized insights

What's Included

Basilica Cistern Ticket - 32€
Hagia Sophia Ticket - 25€
Lunch
English Speaking Professional Tour Guide
Coffee and/or Tea
Gratuities
Transportation

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
Pudding Shop Lale Restaurant

We will meet just in front of the Pudding Shop. Your guide contact will be sent one day before the tour.

End point
Grand Bazaar

Itinerary

Duration: 4 to 5 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque

    The Hagia Sophia with its innovative architecture, rich history, religious significance and extraordinary characteristics, has been fighting against time for centuries. Constructed three times in the same location, it is the world’s oldest and fastest-completed cathedral. With its breathtaking domes that look like hanging in the air, monolithic marble columns and unparalleled mosaics are one of the wonders of the world’s architectural history. The sheer dazzling beauty of the mosque with its magnificent play on space, light, and color provokes worship in the believer.

    1 hour 15 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 2
    Basilica Cistern

    There are hundreds of ancient cisterns hidden underneath the streets and houses of Istanbul. Of the two that are open to the public, the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı) is the largest and Istanbul’s most unusual tourist attraction. Built-in 532 by Emperor Justinian, it was constructed using 336 columns, many of which were salvaged from ruined temples and feature finely carved capitals. Its symmetry and sheer grandeur of conception are quite breathtaking, and its cavernous depths make a great retreat on summer days.

    45 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 3
    Blue Mosque

    Blue Mosque

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Hippodrome

    Hippodrome - German Fountain - Obelisk of Theodosius - Serpent Column - Walled Obelisk

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Grand Bazaar

    Welcome to The Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with 61 covered streets and over 4,000 shops, attracting more than 300,000 visitors daily. Sellers hawk their wares at the top of the voice, and everyone has their own technique to entice you in, the colors, lights, and sounds create an exotic and unique atmosphere. Get ready to experience it.

    1 hour 30 minutes Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • 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
Supplied by Home Away Istanbul

Tags

Half-day Tours
Private Sightseeing Tours
Walking Tours
City Tours
New Product
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

5.0 Based on 13 13 reviews
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