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Visit Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Basilica Cistern on a 3-hour guided tour. Explore in small groups with skip the line tickets included. Learn about Istanbul’s rich Ottoman and Byzantine history.

Highlights

• Skip the long lines and enjoy priority admission to the Hagia Sophia
• Explore the Basilica Cistern, also known as the 'Subterranean Palace'
• Learn about the history of the Byzantine architecture and the Ottomans
• Walk on wooden walkways over the water and view the Medusa heads
• Discover the impressive İznik tiles and the Virgin Mary mosaic in the Mosque

Description

Join an exclusive small group tour of Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul, led by an expert local guide. Enjoy priority admission to skip the longest lines at the ticket office and start learning about the fascinating lives of the Ottomans sooner. Meet your guide in the Sultanahmet neighborhood at an easy spot for a walking tour of Istanbul's greatest monuments. Begin your journey with the Basilica Cistern, also known as the 'Subterranean Palace.' Discover its history, see the underground pillars, and learn about Byzantine architecture. Walk on wooden walkways over the water and view the famous upside-down Medusa heads. Next, visit the Hagia Sophia with pre-reserved tickets and witness the most significant site of the Greek Orthodox religion in Istanbul. As you explore the interior, learn how it was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople. Marvel at the stunning monument and its mixed elements mosque and a church coexisting side by side. Admire the basilica’s stunning dome, minarets, countless mosaics, paintings, and Roman columns. Discover how the impressive İznik tiles were added over time in the Mosque, how the stunning Virgin Mary mosaic was created, and why the Ottomans chose to bury their sultans in the courtyard. Walk the famous Byzantine Hippodrome learning about the obelisks and its importance in the daily life of the city. Concluding in Sultanahmet Square, your tour leaves you equipped with ample knowledge and insights to navigate the enchanting streets of Istanbul independently.

Includes

Priority admission tickets to Hagia Sophia Priority admission tickets to Basilica Cistern (if option is selected) 3 hrs guided tour of Istanbul's most iconic sites Small-group tour for a more personal experience Professional licensed tour guide Walking tour of Istanbul's greatest monuments

Important Information

• Wear comfortable walking shoes as there is a moderate amount of walking involved. Be prepared for any weather conditions; bring a hat and sunscreen on sunny days. Flash photography is not allowed inside the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. Backpacks, large bags, and large umbrellas are not allowed inside the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque for security reasons. A headscarf is required for women when visiting the Hagia Sophia Mosque. Modest dress is required to enter the Blue Mosque; shorts and short skirts are not suitable. The Blue Mosque is an active place of worship; visitors may need to wait outside during prayer times. Children under 5 years old may find the walking challenging. Not wheelchair accessible or suitable for those with mobility impairments. Pregnant women should consider the amount of walking involved before booking.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund