About the Event
About this activity
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Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
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COVID-19 precautions
Special health and safety measures apply
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Small group
Limited to 10 participants
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Duration 4 hours
Starting time 8:30 AM
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Live tour guide
English
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Pickup included
Your hotel/accommodation in the Sultanahmet and Taksim areas of Istanbul.
Experience
Highlights
- Explore the landmark sights of central Istanbul
- Visit the Haghia Sophia, one of the world’s architectural masterpieces
- Marvel at the vibrant blue of the Sultan Ahmed Mosque
- Go to the former Hippodrome of Byzantine chariot races
- Lose yourself among the spice and jewelry stalls of the Grand Bazaar.
Full description
Discover the historic sites of Istanbul on a half-day sightseeing tour with round-trip transfers from centrally located hotels. A local guide will accompany you all the way, starting at the Hagia Sophia.
Learn about the ancient Basilica that was started by Constantine the Great in the 4th century, and completed by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century. For 1,000 years it was the world’s largest cathedral. Today, it has been converted into a museum. Admire the impressive dome and minarets, as well as the beautiful mosaics, sculptures, and columns inside.
Your next stop will be the legendary Sultan Ahmed Mosque, better known around the world as the Blue Mosque. Get up close to this symbol of Istanbul and see the vibrant blue tiles that adorn its interior walls. Stroll around its beautiful courtyard, and see the 6 graceful minarets.
Continue to the Hippodrome, the site of chariot races during the Byzantine Empire. Admire the 3 remaining monuments; the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column, and the Column of Constantine. End with a walk around the labyrinthine Grand Bazaar to haggle for bargains among some 4,000 jewelry, pottery, spices, carpet, and leather stores.
Includes
- Guide
- Entrance fees
- Pickup and drop-off at your hotel (in the Sultanahmet and Taksim areas of Istanbul only)
- Lunch
Not suitable for
- People with mobility impairments
COVID-19 precautions
Safety measures in place
- All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
- Customers must keep distance in vehicles
- The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
Traveler requirements
- Customers are required to bring and wear masks
- Customers will get a mandatory temperature check
Prepare for the activity
Important information
What to bring
- Comfortable shoes
Not allowed
- Luggage or large bags
Know before you go
- The Blue Mosque is being renovated until the end of 2020 so some parts of the ceiling might be temporarily covered.
