Istanbul: Full Day - Byzantine & Ottoman Relics Tour

Overview

This full-day shore excursion in Istanbul suits travelers interested in exploring Byzantine and Ottoman landmarks including the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar.

Highlights

• Explore the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires of Istanbul
• Visit the Blue Mosque to admire the Iznik tiles
• Tour the former Ottoman sultans’ residence at Topkapi Palace
• Discover the Roman Hippodrome, center of ancient sports and politics
• Bargain for souvenirs in the covered Grand Bazaar’s maze of streets

Description

Begin your tour with pickup from the cruise ship terminal by an air-conditioned vehicle and professional licensed guide. The first stop is the Hippodrome, once Constantinople’s center for sports and political activities, where you will see the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpentine Column from Delphi, and Wilhelm II’s fountain.

Next, visit the Blue Mosque, one of Istanbul’s largest mosques, notable for its 17th-century architecture, six minarets, and exquisite blue Iznik tiles. Continue to Topkapi Palace, the former imperial residence that now serves as a museum housing extensive collections of Chinese and Japanese porcelain, along with the Ottoman Royal Family’s treasury.

Visit the Hagia Sophia (St. Sophia Church) to admire Byzantine architecture, then end the tour at the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. Here you can shop for carpets, antiques, trinkets, and nazar evil eye amulets. The tour finishes inside the Grand Bazaar.

Includes

• Pickup from hotels or port by luxury air-conditioned minibus
• Professional licensed guide
• Full-course lunch at a local Turkish restaurant
• Skip-the-ticket-line priority access at Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia
• Local taxes and service charges

Excludes

• Drop-off to hotels
• Hagia Sophia entry fee (€30, payable to guide for skip-the-line access)
• Topkapi Palace entry fee (€60, payable to guide for skip-the-line access)

Important Information

• The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are closed during prayer times and special events.
• Some inner parts of the Blue Mosque are currently under renovation.
• The inner Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Booking Tips

Wear comfortable shoes for walking and dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Morning departures are recommended to avoid crowds and allow ample time for each location.