• Hagia Sophia Mosque - Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya, Santa Sofia) was constructed in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian. It holds significant importance in both the Christian and Islamic worlds. Following the Ottoman conquest, the bells, altar, and sacrificial vessels were removed, and many mosaics were covered to transform the church into a mosque.

• Blue Mosque - The Blue Mosque, built in the early 1600s for Sultan Ahmet I of the Ottoman Empire, is a stunning architectural masterpiece with remarkably delicate proportions for such a large structure. Interestingly, locals refer to it as the Sultan Ahmet Mosque (Camii) rather than the Blue Mosque. There is a wealth of fascinating information to share about this beautiful mosque.

• Basilica Cistern - Located in Sultanahmet, the heart of Istanbul, the Basilica Cistern is a place shrouded in mystery. It has been featured in numerous films and series, including the 2016 movie “Inferno,” starring Tom Hanks, based on Dan Brown’s book. The Basilica Cistern, also known as the Basilica Palace, is one of Istanbul’s most significant historical structures. The unique features of the columns and the inverted Medusa head draw considerable attention. The cistern was built on the site of a former basilica, hence its name, Cisterna Basilica. For more detailed information, consider booking a private guided tour to explore this site. A private guide can help skip the lines, manage tickets, and make the most of your limited time.

• Hippodrome - The Byzantine Hippodrome, now Sultanahmet Square, was the site of chariot races during the Roman Empire. It features the Egyptian Column from the Byzantine Empire era and the German Fountain.

• Grand Bazaar - The Grand Bazaar is a vibrant place that preserves many fading professions with its unique culture. It is the world’s oldest and largest bazaar, showcasing a wide variety of products. With over 3,000 shops, it attracts approximately 400,000 visitors. During the Ottoman Empire, jewelry and exquisite hand-woven textiles from across the country were brought to the Grand Bazaar for sale, making it a shopping paradise for those who appreciate traditional textiles and authentic jewelry.

• Topkapi Palace - Topkapi Palace, one of the world’s largest surviving palaces, was constructed between 1460 and 1478 under Sultan Mehmed II, shortly after he conquered Constantinople. The palace served as the residence of the Ottoman Sultans for nearly four centuries and was the administrative and educational center of the state. The Topkapi Palace complex includes four main courtyards and numerous smaller buildings. The harem housed the Sultan’s female family members, while leading state officials, including the Grand Vizier, held meetings in the Imperial Council building. The Topkapi Palace is vast and requires several hours to explore. It resembles a small village with many stories and intrigues to uncover. Private tour guides have the advantage of skipping the long lines at museums, including the Topkapi Palace Museum.

• Private professional personal tour guide
• Private transportation
• Skip the long line at museums
• On-board WiFi
• In-vehicle air conditioning

• Tips are not included
• Entrance fee

This private guided tour is designed to provide essential insights into the history of stunning landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, and the Hippodrome. The unique aspect of these sites lies in their rich history, which the guide will thoroughly explain, covering events from the past to the present day.

A professional tour guide will accompany the group, ensuring a smooth and comfortable experience at popular tourist spots, museums, and palaces. Tour guides often have priority access, allowing them to skip lines. The tour is also customizable, enabling participants to add new destinations of interest or exclude places they prefer not to visit.

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