• Sultanahmet Square - Discover Istanbul’s most renowned landmarks on this small-group walking tour. Join an expert guide in Sultanahmet Square, the historic center of the Old Town, where the tour kicks off with an introduction to the city’s rich history.

This experience includes skip-the-line tickets and knowledgeable guides, making it a perfect way to explore Istanbul’s key attractions.

• Blue Mosque - The Blue Mosque is Istanbul’s most frequented monument, and the Sultanahmet area is named after this iconic edifice. Admire this grand imperial Ottoman mosque, commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I, and the last mosque constructed on such a grand scale.
  Enjoy an in-depth guided tour as your guide elaborates on its architecture, symbolism, and function as an active place of worship.
  Afterwards, take time to appreciate the expansive courtyard, offering stunning views of daily life in modern Istanbul, and enjoy a leisurely walk through the surrounding neighborhood.
• Hagia Sophia Mosque - Explore the Hagia Sophia with pre-booked tickets and experience the most important site of the Greek Orthodox tradition in Istanbul. Learn about its transformation into a mosque following the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople.
  Inside, observe elements of both a church and a mosque coexisting, from the vast basilica dome and towering minarets to mosaics, paintings, and marble columns. Discover how İznik tiles were added over time, how the extraordinary Virgin Mary mosaic was crafted, and why Ottoman sultans were interred in the courtyard.
• Hippodrome - Stroll through the famous hippodrome of Constantinople. Learn about the obelisks that embellish the square.
  Take a pause between two major landmarks for the best views and learn about the significance of the hippodrome during the Byzantine era of the city.

• 2.5 hours walking tour at a relaxed pace
• Starting from Galata Port (optional)
• Small group tour for interactive experience
• Expert guide with insider knowledge
• Pre-reserved tickets for Hagia Sophia
• Guided tour of Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia

• Transport to the meeting spot

This tour offers a comprehensive introduction to Istanbul, blending the city’s key landmarks with insightful historical context. Beginning at Sultanahmet Square, the guide links Byzantine and Ottoman histories, illustrating Istanbul’s transformation from Constantinople to its present form.

Enjoy skip-the-line access and guided tours of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, allowing you to experience both Christian and Islamic sites in a seamless journey. A stroll through the Hippodrome enriches the experience, showcasing the dynamics of public life in the Byzantine era. With a small group and knowledgeable guide, the emphasis is on understanding rather than haste, ensuring each site is appreciated and not overwhelming.

• Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are functioning mosques and they can be closed to visitors for any reason, even without pre-notice (for a high-level state visit, for example)
• Istanbul has notoriously bad traffic. Give more time to get to the meeting spot than you may have planned
• Tickets are timed and expire within 5 to 10 minutes.
• I is not possible to join the tour after it has commenced.
• Women are required to wear a headscarf when entering the mosque.
• Both men and women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Shorts, sleeveless tops, and other revealing attire are not permitted inside.
• You are not allowed to bring signs, symbols, banners, flags, documents, drawings, or any materials representing political, ideological, or religious beliefs inside the Hagia Sophia.
• Please note that the ‘Starting from Galata Port’ option is available only for cruise guests.
• Please note that skip-the-line access is available for adults only. Children under the age of 7 do not benefit from this access.
• Please note that children under 7 are not permitted on this tour.
• Tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.

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