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Embark on a day out in Istanbul and see all the iconic sites. Learn about the rich history from your guide, and visit the Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Grand Bazaar.

Highlights

• Visit all the main tourist attractions of Istanbul in one day
• Visit the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Hagia Sophia
• Learn about the history of Istanbul as you explore its historic sites
• Stop at a local Turkish restaurant to savor an authentic lunch
• Navigate the maze-like interior of the Grand Bazaar's shops

Description

Discover Istanbul's most iconic sights on a tour. Listen to your guide recount tales of the city's colorful past as you pass by landmarks such as the Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, and Hippodrome. Round off the experience with a visit to the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest covered markets in the world. Start your tour at the Hippodrome of Constantinople, which was the sports and social center of the old city. Discover major artworks including the Obelisk from Egypt, the Serpentine Column from Delphi, and the fountain of Willhelm II. Then, continue to the Blue Mosque, whose 6 minarets adorn Istanbul’s skyline. Next up is the Topkapi Palace (additional fee), which was home to Ottoman emperors between the 15th and 19th centuries. Marvel at the jewel-stuffed treasury, the Ottoman Empire's imperial collections, and priceless displays of Oriental porcelain. If the Topkapi Palace is closed on your trip date, you'll visit the Nakkas Cistern instead. Continue to the Hagia Sophia Mosque (additional fee), a monument of equal significance to the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. Behold the dome and stunning mosaics of this architectural gem as your guide recounts its turbulent history. Then, enter the Grand Bazaar with over 3,000 shops selling everything from carpets to jewelry to ceramics and leather goods. Take a stroll around the Bazaar and soak in the aroma of different spices, dried fruits, nuts, sweets, and lokum (Turkish Delights). Tour ends in Grand Bazaar.

Includes

Hotel pickup from centrally-located hotels and pickup points Deluxe Mercedes-Benz minibus for the pickup service Licensed tour guide Lunch at a local restaurant Skip-the-ticket-line entry at the Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia Headset/info port for groups larger than 12

Important Information

• Topkapi Palace is closed every Tuesday and is replaced with Basilica Cistern Inner parts of Grand Bazaar are closed every Sunday The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are unable to be visited during prayer times and special events Tour ends in Grand Bazaar

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund