5 (611)
Istanbul
Istanbul Highlights Tour: Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia & Topkapi
Overview
Istanbul Highlights! Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapı and More! This amazing tour shows visitors the best of Istanbul in a single day. It's perfect for small groups and includes all the tickets needed to see the sights.
The day begins at the German Fountain, a gift from Kaiser Wilhelm, located next to the ancient Hippodrome of Constantinople, where chariot races once thrilled crowds. Visitors will then explore the Blue Mosque, famous for its six minarets, followed by the breathtaking Hagia Sophia, a church known for its divine beauty. The tour continues to the Nakkas Cistern, showcasing Istanbul's history and Turkish handicrafts, before visiting the Grand Bazaar with its many shops.
The tour also includes the magnificent Topkapı Palace, once the heart of the Ottoman Empire. Visitors can explore its courtyards, Audience Hall, Treasury, gardens, and kiosks, as well as Hagia Irene Church. Lunch is provided at a local restaurant, where guests can enjoy authentic Turkish flavors. This tour provides a detailed view of Istanbul’s top destinations. Expect to see the Hippodrome of Constantinople, the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum (Ibrahim Pasha Palace), the Column of Constantine, the Nakkaş Cistern Museum, Tamara Restaurant, Hagia Irene, the Forum of Constantine, the Nusretiye Mosque, Soğukçeşme Street, Ceremonial Street, and the Harem Museum. The tour includes entry tickets to Topkapı Palace (including the Harem and Hagia Irene) and Hagia Sophia. It also includes lunch, bottled water, coffee, and tea, along with an English-speaking guide. Gratuities and air-conditioned transportation are not included. 
Highlights
See Top Istanbul Sights: Visit the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace in one day.
Skip the Line: Tickets to major attractions are included to save time.
Enjoy Turkish Food: Taste local flavors with lunch at an authentic restaurant.
Learn from an Expert: An English-speaking guide shares the history and stories of Istanbul.
Sentiment Analysis
Visitors loved seeing so many important places in one day.
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The guide was very knowledgeable and made the tour interesting.
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The included lunch was tasty and a nice break from sightseeing.
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Many customers appreciated having all the tickets taken care of.
Some visitors felt the Grand Bazaar visit was too short.
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A few customers wished for more time at specific sites.
The Journey
Hippodrome of Constantinople
Step back in time at the Hippodrome, once the heart of Byzantine social life, commissioned in its later Ottoman form by German King Wilhelm II. Imagine the roar of chariot races and public celebrations that once filled this vast arena. Though remnants are subtle, the obelisks and Serpent Column stand as silent witnesses to centuries of history.
Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)
Marvel at the Blue Mosque, Istanbul's most visited mosque, dating back to 1616. Admire its six minarets and cascading domes, adorned with exquisite blue Iznik tiles that give the mosque its nickname. Experience the spiritual ambiance and architectural grandeur of this iconic Ottoman masterpiece, reflecting centuries of devotion.
Hagia Sophia
Enter the Hagia Sophia, a marvel of Byzantine architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage Site served as a church for 900 years, then a mosque for almost 500, and now a museum. Witness the breathtaking blend of Christian and Islamic art, including stunning mosaics and soaring domes, a testament to the city's layered history.
Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum (Ibrahim Pasha Palace)
Explore the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum, housed in the grand Ibrahim Pasha Palace, a masterpiece of 16th-century Ottoman architecture. Discover an impressive collection of Islamic calligraphy, carpets, ceramics, and woodwork, offering insights into the rich artistic heritage of the Islamic world. Your guide will unravel the captivating history behind the palace and its treasures.
Column of Constantine
Witness the Column of Constantine, a towering monument erected in the 4th century AD to commemorate the dedication of Constantinople. Standing as a proud emblem of the city's Roman past, this historic column offers a tangible link to the era when Constantine the Great transformed Byzantium into the new Roman capital.
Hippodrome of Constantinople
The Hippodrome served as the epicenter of entertainment in Roman and Byzantine Constantinople, hosting thrilling chariot races and grand public spectacles. Picture the excitement and spectacle as you stand on this historical ground, imagining the cheers of the crowds and the thunder of hooves that once defined this vibrant space.
Nakkaş Cistern Museum
Descend into the Nakkaş Cistern Museum, a hidden gem beneath Istanbul, where you can explore the ruins of Ancient Constantinople and the Hippodrome. Marvel at the impressive architecture of the cistern itself and delve into an exhibition showcasing the city's Byzantine past. Additionally, discover an exhibition showcasing 'Constantinople in 1200 AD' and enjoy demonstrations of traditional Turkish handicrafts.
Grand Bazaar
Lose yourself in the labyrinthine alleys of the Grand Bazaar, a vibrant marketplace boasting over 4,000 shops spread across 62 streets. Immerse yourself in a sensory feast of colors, sounds, and aromas as you browse through an array of carpets, ceramics, spices, and jewelry. Haggle for treasures and experience the timeless tradition of Turkish commerce.
Tamara Restaurant
Indulge in a delightful lunch break at Tamara Restaurant, a well-regarded eatery near the Blue Mosque. Savor authentic Turkish flavors with a set menu featuring a delicious soup of the day, a mixed kebab (or a vegetarian option), and a local dessert or fresh fruit. Recharge and refuel amidst the sights and sounds of Istanbul.
Topkapi Palace
Enter the opulent Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans for nearly four centuries. Explore the sprawling complex of courtyards, gardens, and chambers, each adorned with exquisite tilework, intricate carvings, and priceless artifacts. Discover the secrets of the Ottoman court and the lives of the sultans who ruled from this magnificent palace.
Hagia Irene
Discover Hagia Irene, a 6th-century Byzantine church dedicated to divine peace. Admire its unique architecture, characterized by its surviving atrium, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere of this historical sanctuary. Hagia Irene is one of the few Byzantine churches in Istanbul that was never converted into a mosque, retaining much of its original structure.
Hippodrome of Constantinople
The Hippodrome of Constantinople, a gathering point for the Byzantine empire citizens, remains a central part of Istanbul's historical landscape. Experience its significant cultural and historical importance as a place where chariot races and community events once thrived.
Forum of Constantine
Visit the remains of the Forum of Constantine, a grand public square built by Emperor Constantine in the 4th century AD. Envision the bustling activity that once filled this central space, where political gatherings, public speeches, and imperial ceremonies took place. The forum served as a focal point of Byzantine life.
Nusretiye Mosque
Admire the Nusretiye Mosque, an 18th-century architectural gem representing the earliest examples of baroque style in Ottoman mosque design. Appreciate the elegant details and ornate decorations of this historical landmark, showcasing a fusion of architectural influences.
Grand Bazaar
Venture into the antique and jewelry market of the Grand Bazaar, a treasure trove of rare and exquisite finds. Discover unique pieces, from vintage jewelry to centuries-old artifacts, and immerse yourself in the artistry and craftsmanship of Turkish artisans.
Soğukçeşme Street
Wander along Soğukçeşme Street, a charming cobblestone street tucked beside the walls of Topkapi Palace. Admire the beautifully restored Ottoman-era mansions that line the street, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Istanbul's elite. The street provides a serene and picturesque escape from the bustling city.
Ceremonial Street
Walk along the Ceremonial Street, once the heart of Ottoman imperial processions. Picture the lavish parades and grand ceremonies that unfolded along this historic route, as sultans and dignitaries made their way through the city. Experience the grandeur and spectacle of the Ottoman Empire.
Harem Museum
Explore the Harem Museum within Topkapi Palace, a fascinating glimpse into the private lives of the Ottoman sultans and their families. Discover the opulent chambers, courtyards, and bathhouses where the women of the harem resided, and learn about the complex social dynamics and intrigues of the Ottoman court.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes entry tickets to Topkapı Palace (including the Harem and Hagia Irene) and Hagia Sophia. Lunch, bottled water, coffee, and tea are also included. An English-speaking professional tour guide will be with the group. Gratuities and air-conditioned transportation are not included.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved. Bring a hat and sunscreen for sunny days. Try to bargain at the Grand Bazaar to get the best prices.
Review Summary
People usually say the Istanbul Highlights tour is well-organized, informative, and covers all the major attractions efficiently. Many appreciate the included tickets and lunch, as well as the knowledgeable guides. Some travelers mention the pace can be fast and that there is a lot of walking, which may be tiring for some.
Frequently Asked Questions
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
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