• Sultanahmet Square - Take advantage of our priority admission tickets and embark on a 2-hour guided group tour in the heart of Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet. Visit the Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern while uncovering the rich history of the Ottoman and Byzantine Empires with your entry tickets.
• Basilica Cistern - Follow your guide with priority tickets to begin your adventure at the Basilica Cistern, also known as the “Subterranean Palace.” Learn about its history, admire the underground pillars, and delve into Byzantine architecture. Walk on wooden pathways over the water and see the famous upside-down Medusa heads.
• Hagia Sophia Mosque - Next, explore the Hagia Sophia with pre-reserved tickets, a key site of the Greek Orthodox religion in Istanbul. Listen to your guide as you tour the interior, discovering how it was transformed into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople. Marvel at the magnificent structure where mosque and church elements coexist. Admire the stunning dome, minarets, numerous mosaics, paintings, and Roman columns. Learn about the addition of İznik tiles, the creation of the Virgin Mary mosaic, and why Ottoman sultans chose to be buried in the courtyard.
• Hippodrome - Stroll along the Hippodrome and enjoy a scenic walk around Sultanahmet as local life unfolds around you. Inquire about the obelisks that decorate the square. Take a moment to appreciate these two significant monuments while learning about the Hippodrome’s importance to Istanbul during the Byzantine era.
• Sultanahmet Square - Ending in Sultanahmet Square, our tour provides you with ample knowledge and insights to explore the charming streets of Istanbul on your own. Join us for an unforgettable journey through the heart of this historic city.

• Professional and local guide with a license
• Priority entry tickets for Hagia Sophia
• Priority entry tickets for Basilica Cistern
• Starting from Galata Port (If this option is selected)
• Headsets to hear the guide better
• 2 hours guided tour

• Transport to the meeting spot

Take advantage of included admission tickets to Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern.
Join a small-group tour of Istanbul’s top attractions, guided by an expert.
Discover the renowned Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern with your tickets.
Gain insights into the history and culture of the Ottoman and Byzantine Empires.
Receive recommendations from your guide at the tour’s conclusion to further explore Istanbul.
Enjoy convenient pickup from Galata Port or a meeting point in Sultanahmet.

• You will have to pass through airport-style security.
• Hagia Sophia may be closed unannounced due to high-level state visits.
• If Basilica Cistern is closed we visit Şerefiye (cistern of Theodosius) or Binbirdirek (Cistern of Philoxenos).
• Expect long lines to enter the Hagia Sophia, especially during holidays.
• Basilica Cistern has 50 steps going down and then up. There is no lift.
• Clients must arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the start of the tour. This is due to the timed entry of the tickets.
• Tickets are timed and expire within 5 to 10 minutes.
• Please be advised that it is not possible to join the tour after it has commenced.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and people with reduced mobility.
• Please note that both men and women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Shorts, sleeveless tops, and other revealing attire are not permitted inside.
• Please note that women are required to wear a headscarf when entering the mosque.
• Please note that wearing or displaying any specific religious symbols or attire is not permitted.
• 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.
• Tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.
• Please note that the ‘Starting from Galata Port’ option is available only for cruise guests.
• Please note that children under 7 are not permitted on this tour.
• Please note that skip-the-line access is available for adults only. Children under the age of 7 do not benefit from this access.

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