• Blue Mosque - The Blue Mosque is a significant landmark in Ottoman history. Its architecture is celebrated for its magnificence, and the interior is adorned with intricate designs and artwork. Situated on a hill in Istanbul, the Mosque is built atop an ancient Byzantine palace and is near the renowned Hippodrome and Hagia Sophia. The exterior of the Blue Mosque is constructed from a mix of red granite, marble, pudding stone, and porphyry. The interior features similar materials, along with ceramic tiling, wooden elements, and more.

• Hagia Sophia Mosque - Hagia Sophia translates to Church or Sanctuary of Holy Wisdom. Following the Muslim conquest of Constantinople, the name was changed to reflect its status as a mosque, becoming the Holy Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque. Hagia Sophia holds significance for Christians as it was the seat of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, akin to the Catholic Pope for Greek Orthodox Christians. It is renowned for its architectural beauty, art, symbolism of Roman political and religious power consolidation, and its rich history. For the Roman Empire, Hagia Sophia symbolized the unification of religious and political authority, exemplified by its use for ceremonial emperor coronations.

• Basilica Cistern - Discover the unique Basilica Cistern, also known as Yerebatan Palace, located in Istanbul’s Sultanahmet district. Initially constructed by Emperor Constantine, it was rebuilt by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century following the city’s turmoil during the 532 uprisings. As Istanbul’s surrounding waters were saltwater, the Basilica Cistern provided filtered drinking water to the Great Palace and nearby buildings. After the Ottoman Empire’s conquest of Istanbul in 1453, it also supplied water to Topkapi Palace.

• Hippodrome - The history of the Hippodrome of Constantinople dates back to ancient times, originating in the early 3rd century AD under Emperor Septimius Severus. Byzantium already held a strategic and significant position, but it reached its peak of power in the 4th century when it became the Roman Empire’s capital, renamed Constantinople by Constantine the Great, and expanded with impressive structures.

• Grand Bazaar - Commissioned by Mehmet II (1444-1481) shortly after the Ottoman conquest of Istanbul in 1453, the Grand Bazaar was intended to provide financial support for the Hagia Sophia. Construction began in 1461, and what started as a wooden structure is now entirely made of stone and brick. Bricks form the vaulted arches, cut stones are used at the arches’ base, and walls are plastered over bricks or stone. The oldest building is the Cevahir or İç Bedesten, followed by the Sandal Bedesten. Bedesten, a vaulted and fireproofed section of the Grand Bazaar, derives its name from “bez” (cloth) and means cloth seller’s market. Both bedestens exemplify classical Ottoman architecture.

• Sultanahmet District - Delight in the views of Sultanahmet while strolling between various attractions, enjoying the diverse architecture of buildings, parks, and fountains.

• Vezirhan Handmade Carpets & Klims - Experience and enjoy a weaving session in an old Bedesten of Istanbul, learn about the culture and techniques, and gain authentic information about quality handicrafts.

• Private transportation
• Entrance fee of Hagia Sophia museum included with skip line tickets, we do not wait to buy tickets
• Entrances of Basilica cistern with skip line ticket included
• Private guiding service during the day
• All Fees and Taxes
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Free pick up and drop off from the city center hotels included

• Lunch

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