Highlights of Old City Istanbul

Topkapi Palace - Topkapi Palace is a historic landmark in Istanbul, Turkey, serving as the main residence of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. Situated on the Seraglio Point, it overlooks the Golden Horn and the Sea of Marmara. The palace is a complex of buildings, courtyards, and gardens, featuring significant structures like the Harem, the Imperial Council Hall, and the Treasury. It also houses a vast collection of Ottoman art and artifacts, including manuscripts, weapons, and jewelry. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Hagia Sophia Mosque - The Hagia Sophia is a historic edifice in Istanbul, Turkey, initially an Eastern Orthodox cathedral, later converted into a mosque, and most recently a museum. Constructed in the 6th century AD under Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, it is renowned as a prime example of Byzantine architecture. Its massive dome was a technological marvel at the time of its construction. The Hagia Sophia contains numerous religious and cultural artifacts, including mosaics, frescoes, and inscriptions. It was a UNESCO World Heritage site, and in July 2020, the Turkish President announced its reconversion into a mosque for Muslim worship.

Basilica Cistern - The Basilica Cistern is an ancient underground water storage facility in Istanbul, Turkey. Built in the 6th century AD during the Byzantine Empire, it provided water for the city. The cistern, located beneath the city, spans approximately 9,800 square meters and is supported by 336 marble columns, each 9 meters high, arranged in 12 rows of 28 columns. It is famous for its two Medusa head columns, used as bases for two of the cistern’s columns. Rediscovered in the 16th century, it is now open to the public as a tourist attraction, celebrated for its unique design and historical importance.

Blue Mosque - The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is a historic mosque in Istanbul, Turkey. Constructed in the early 17th century during the reign of Ottoman Sultan Ahmed I, it is famous for its blue tile work and six minarets, distinguishing it from other mosques. The Blue Mosque is considered a masterpiece of Islamic architecture and is a major tourist attraction in Istanbul. It remains an active place of worship, and visitors are asked to dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering. The mosque is renowned for its intricate tile work, calligraphy, and decoration, blending Ottoman and Islamic architectural styles. PLEASE NOTE: Temporarily closed for restoration until April 1, 2023.

Hippodrome - The Hippodrome of Constantinople was a public arena in Istanbul, Turkey, constructed during the Roman period. It hosted chariot races and other public events, serving as the social and cultural hub of the city. The Hippodrome was centrally located in ancient Constantinople, surrounded by notable structures such as the Emperor’s Box, the Obelisk of Theodosius, and the Serpent Column.

Grand Bazaar - The Grand Bazaar is a historic market in Istanbul, Turkey, dating back to the 15th century. It is one of the largest and oldest covered markets globally, with over 60 streets and 4,000 shops. The bazaar is a maze of shops and stalls offering a wide range of goods, including textiles, jewelry, ceramics, spices, and souvenirs. Known for its beautiful architecture, many shops and buildings date back to the Ottoman period. The Grand Bazaar is a major tourist attraction and a vital cultural and economic center in Istanbul. It is a lively place where locals and tourists can shop, socialize, and experience local culture. Visitors should be prepared to haggle over prices and navigate the bustling streets.

Caferaga Medresesi - Caferaga Medresesi is an Islamic theological school in Istanbul, Turkey. Built in the 17th century during the Ottoman period, it was one of the city’s most important institutions of its kind.

Sogukcesme Sokak - This street is lined with numerous examples of traditional Ottoman architecture, including houses with wooden balconies and ornate facades. Sogukcesme Sokak is a picturesque street, popular among tourists and locals for strolling and admiring the architecture.

Diversity of Istanbul with Greek and Jewish Cultures

Bosphorus Strait - The Bosphorus is a narrow strait separating Europe and Asia, connecting the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara. The cruise offers breathtaking views of the city’s landmarks, such as the Ottoman palaces, the Bosphorus Bridge, and the European and Asian coastlines. During the cruise, visitors can also see historic wooden mansions, Ottoman-era fortresses, and the modern skyline of Istanbul.

Dolmabahce Palace - Dolmabahce Palace is a historic palace in Istanbul, Turkey. Built in the 19th century during the Ottoman Empire, it served as the primary residence of the Ottoman sultans and later, the Turkish presidents. The palace is a blend of various architectural styles, including Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical, and is considered one of the most opulent palaces worldwide.

Galata Tower - The Galata Tower is a medieval stone tower in the Galata district of Istanbul, Turkey. Built in the 14th century by the Genoese as part of the Galata colony’s fortifications, it stands 66.9 meters tall. Over the centuries, the tower has served as a prison, a fire lookout, and a watchtower. The Galata Tower offers a panoramic view of Istanbul, including the Bosphorus Strait, the Golden Horn, and the historic districts of Sultanahmet, Beyoglu, and Fatih.

Fener & Balat - Fener and Balat are two historic neighborhoods in Istanbul, Turkey, on the western shore of the Golden Horn. Known for their well-preserved traditional Ottoman-era houses and streets, both neighborhoods are considered among the most authentic and charming areas in Istanbul, making them a must-see for visitors wanting to experience the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Misir Carsisi (Spice Market) - The Spice Bazaar, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, is a historic market in Istanbul, Turkey. One of the city’s oldest bazaars, it was built in the 17th century as part of the New Mosque complex. The bazaar is renowned for its wide variety of spices, herbs, nuts, and dried fruits, as well as other traditional Turkish products like sweets, teas, and souvenirs. The bazaar is a bustling and colorful place, filled with the sights and aromas of spices and other traditional products.

• Professional Licensed Local Tour Guide
• Private Guided Tour
• Meeting in your accommodation

• Transportation (Unless the option chosen)
• Lunch and Drinks
• Gratuities
• Tipping for Guide and Driver (Suggested)
• Entrance Fees pp: Topkapi Palace:2.400TRY / Basilica Cistern: 1.500TRY
• Entrance Fees pp: Galata Tower: €30 / Bosphorus Cruise: 350TRY / Dolmabahce Palace: 1500TRY

Embark on a journey through Istanbul highlighting key attractions such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Grand Bazaar. This tour also includes a scenic Bosphorus cruise, a visit to the Galata Tower, an exploration of the Fener-Balat district, and a sensory trip to the Spice Bazaar. It’s an opportunity to see significant landmarks, historic sites, experience a rich cultural legacy, witness a variety of era’s & architectural styles, and immerse in the daily routine of Istanbul through marketplace visits and sweeping city views.

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