• Hagia Sophia Mosque - Hagia Sophia stands as one of Istanbul’s most renowned landmarks. Originally constructed in 537 by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I as a Christian cathedral, it was the world’s largest church for many centuries, showcasing Byzantine architecture with its grand dome and exquisite mosaics.

In 1453, following the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople, Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque. In the 20th century, it became a museum, and today it functions once more as a mosque. Visitors are captivated by its unique blend of Byzantine and Ottoman elements, symbolizing Istanbul’s rich historical tapestry.

• Basilica Cistern - The Basilica Cistern is an underground water reservoir in Istanbul, constructed in the 6th century under Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. It served to store water for the Great Palace and nearby structures. The cistern is supported by numerous marble columns, creating a mysterious and awe-inspiring atmosphere.

Today, the Basilica Cistern is a favored tourist destination. Visitors stroll on platforms above the water, observing notable features like the Medusa heads at the base of two columns. Its cool and serene environment makes it one of the city’s most intriguing historical sites.

• Hippodrome - The Sultanahmet Hippodrome is among Istanbul’s oldest public spaces, serving as the political, social, and cultural hub of Roman and Byzantine life. Initially begun in the 3rd century AD by Emperor Septimius Severus and later expanded by Emperor Constantine the Great, it was a grand stadium where tens of thousands gathered for chariot races, ceremonies, and public events. Although much of the original structure has not survived, monuments such as the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpent Column, and the Walled Obelisk still reflect its ancient grandeur. Known as “At Meydanı” during the Ottoman era, the area witnessed celebrations, uprisings, and state ceremonies. Today, as Sultanahmet Square, it remains one of Istanbul’s most significant historical landmarks.
• Sultanahmet Square - Sultanahmet is the historic core of Istanbul, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. Named after Sultan Ahmet I, this ancient district centers around the legendary Sultanahmet Square, formerly the Hippodrome of Constantinople, where chariot races and gladiator contests once enthralled Byzantine audiences. The area features iconic landmarks including the Blue Mosque with its six minarets and over 21,000 handmade ceramic tiles, the magnificent Hagia Sophia basilica from the 6th century, and Topkapi Palace, the world’s largest surviving historic palace. Visitors can explore Byzantine cisterns, archaeological museums, Gulhane Park, and traditional bazaars while strolling streets lined with restaurants, hotels, and shops. This extraordinary district offers an unparalleled journey through millennia of history, where Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman civilizations converge in stunning architectural splendor.
• Grand Bazaar - Enter the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, featuring over 4,000 shops beneath its historic domes. Here, shopping transcends mere transactions — it becomes a cultural experience. Discover handmade Turkish carpets woven with age-old techniques, premium leather goods crafted by skilled artisans, elegant ceramic tiles inspired by Ottoman designs, and dazzling gold jewelry created by master jewelers. Each piece narrates a story of Anatolian heritage. Whether seeking a unique souvenir or an investment-quality treasure, the Grand Bazaar offers authenticity, craftsmanship, and the chance to purchase directly from trusted local merchants in the heart of Istanbul.

• Private Licensed Tour Guide
• Skip the Ticket Purchase Line

• Personal expenses
• Tip for the Guide
• Admission fees
• Admission fees

By Septillion Travel Agency
TÜRSAB A-Class License No: 18212

1. Skip all ticket lines with fast-track access, allowing more time to explore in just 4 hours.
2. Professionally licensed guides provide accurate and dependable historical insights throughout the tour.
3. Specialized expert guides enhance the tour with comprehensive knowledge not available on standard group tours.
4. Explore Hagia Sophia with expert narration that emphasizes its rich history and hidden tales.
5. Enter the Basilica Cistern without delay and enjoy vivid storytelling beneath its atmospheric arches.
6. Walk through Sultanahmet Square as your guide unveils centuries of Byzantine and Ottoman evolution.
7. Experience the Grand Bazaar with explanations that link architecture, culture, and the tradition of spiritual shopping.
8. Perfect for travelers seeking efficiency and priority access in a concise, premium tour.

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