Highlights
- Visit the best attractions Istanbul has to offer in this full-day walking tour
- Take in the beauty of the opulent Topkapi Palace
- See the historic Obelisk of Theodosius at the Hippodrome
- Explore the vast network of ancient Roman reservoirs at the Basilica Cistern
- Marvel at the impressive structures of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque
Description
The first stop is the Hippodrome and the Obelisk of Theodosius. Marvel at the 15th-century structure and soak in the history before heading to the next stop, Hagia Sophia. This great architectural masterpiece boasts a long and storied history, serving as a church, mosque, and now museum. You can either skip-the-line by picking the inclusive option or you can receive the assistance of the friendly tour guide before the tour starts so you can avoid the long lines.
Next, you’ll head to the Blue Mosque, where you can admire the intricate details of the mosque's blue tiles and elegant domes while learning about its rich history and significance to the Muslim faith. Don’t let the long entrance lines sway you—both of these spots are a must-visit!
We’ll stop for lunch (if included option is selected) at a local eatery before making our way to the Basilica Cistern. We’ll explore the vast network of ancient Roman reservoirs and marvel at the cistern’s stunning architecture, with its towering columns and intricate carvings.
The last site for the day is the Topkapi Palace. This opulent structure once served as the administrative headquarters of the Ottoman sultans during the 15th and 16th centuries. Today, its beauty is still a sight to behold, with many flocking to the palace to take photos.
Includes
English-speaking tour guide
Lunch (if option selected)
Drinking water
Hagia Sophia skip-the-line entrance fees (if option selected)
Excludes
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Entrance fee to Topkapi Palace (2750 Turkish Lira, Museum Pass accepted)
Entrance fee to Basilica Cistern (1950 Turkish Lira)
Hagia Sophia Mosque entrance fee (25 EUR per person to be paid only if the inclusive option is not selected)
Personal expenses
Important Information
- Hagia Sophia information:
It is strongly recommended to purchase skip-the-line tickets (25 EUR) in advance. The activity provider will assist with this process by sending you a purchase link via email if you don't select the inclusive option. Customers without skip-the-line tickets may face a queue of 1-2 hours at the site
The upper gallery is accessible by stairs; it's not recommended for tourists with mobility issues
Take Note:
Clothes revealing the shoulders, underarms, back, and knees are not allowed at some sites on this tour; enforcement may be strict
The restaurant is situated close to the Mosque, and as is customary in the Muslim faith, it is not possible to serve alcoholic beverages in the establishment (if the lunch-inclusive option is selected)
Please bring a scarf or sweater to cover up or wear clothes that fit the dress code
Please note that during peak seasons, long queues are anticipated at Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, potentially leading to extended tour duration
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
