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Explore the heart of Istanbul on a guided tour of the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Learn about the history of the city as you visit the Hippodrome and see the obelisks.

Highlights

• Immerse yourself in the rich history of Istanbul on a guided walking tour
• Discover the iconic Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque with priority tickets
• Learn about the history of the city as you explore the Hippodrome and obelisks
• Admire the stunning architecture of the Blue Mosque and its beautiful blue tiles
• See the harmonious blend of mosque and church architecture at the Hagia Sophia

Description

Embark on a small-group guided tour that takes you through the heart of Istanbul's rich history and iconic sites. With priority admission tickets included, effortlessly explore the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. Begin your journey in the lively Sultanahmet district, where you'll meet your expert guide at a convenient starting point. Your first destination is the famed Blue Mosque, renowned for its stunning blue tiles. Commissioned by Sultan Ahmet, this grand Ottoman mosque is a masterpiece of architecture. As your guide leads you through its fascinating history, you'll be immersed in the mosque's captivating atmosphere. Pause to admire the panoramic views of modern Istanbul from the mosque's courtyard before meandering through the ancient streets. Discover the Hippodrome, once the vibrant social and political center of the city, and uncover the history behind its famous obelisks. Next, proceed to the Hagia Sophia with pre-arranged tickets. Explore the remarkable evolution of this site from a Greek Orthodox cathedral to a mosque following the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople. Be awed by the harmonious blend of mosque and church architecture, featuring grand domes, towering minarets, and exquisite mosaics. Continue your journey through the Hagia Sophia, where you'll learn about its ornate İznik tiles, the iconic Virgin Mary mosaic, and the intriguing tradition of sultans being buried in its courtyard. The tour concludes in Sultanahmet Square, leaving you with a wealth of knowledge and insights to further explore Istanbul's enchanting streets on your own.

Includes

Priority admission tickets to Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque (if option selected) Expert guide Small-group tour for a more personalized experience

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