Welcome to Turkey and Istanbul, a truly breathtaking and must-visit destination.
We are here to transport you through time and introduce you to the perfect blend of the ancient and the modern. This exceptional tour showcases the absolute highlights of Istanbul's old town. To truly grasp and appreciate the essence of this city, it is paramount to commence from its origins, which were handpicked by both the Roman Empire and the Ottoman Empire as their power centers. In our case, we will take you on an unforgettable journey through Sultanahmet, the present-day name for this remarkable area, on the first day of your tour.
During this remarkable day, you will gain extensive knowledge about both civilizations and witness their awe-inspiring architectural marvels. Prepare to be captivated as we explore the remnants of the Hippodrome, a vibrant social hub, and then proceed to the majestic Hagia Sophia, a remarkable testament to Christian and Muslim faiths, symbolizing the Ottomans and Romans, respectively. Following this, you will step into a world of wonder as we visit the Imperial Ottoman Palace. This meticulously designed palace resembled a grand city for the esteemed Sultans of the Empire.
To deeply engage with the vibrant culture, we will also visit the mesmerizing Blue Mosque, where you can admire the masterful artistry of the tiles and enhance your knowledge of the Islamic faith. Lastly, we will conclude the day by exploring the world-renowned Grand Bazaar, an enchanting labyrinth of 4,000 shops, where you can engage with friendly local shopkeepers and experience the vibrant atmosphere.
Join us on this journey and explore Istanbul's old town's captivating history and vibrant ambiance.
ITINERARY OVERVIEW
• Walk around Hippodrome
• Take a visit to the Blue Mosque
• Feel the history of Hagia Sophia
• Understand: The head of the Ottomans. visits Topkapi Palace with Harem included.
• Delight yourself with Turkish cuisine in a Turkish Restaurant
• Finally, explore The Grand Bazaar
The Tour Itinerary
Start your adventure by meeting your tour guide in the lobby after breakfast. The first stop is the Hippodrome, the city's central hub for public entertainment. Here, you will have the opportunity to see four magnificent monuments. Next, head to the Blue Mosque to admire the stunning examples of Iznik tiles and gain insights into the Islamic religion and its practices. After that, immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Hagia Sophia, which has proudly stood for approximately 1486 years. Originally an imperial church for the Romans and later the Eastern Romans, it was converted into a mosque after the Ottomans conquered Constantinople. Once you have explored this remarkable edifice, treat yourself to a delightful Turkish cuisine for a satisfying meal. Finally, conclude your tour with a visit to the Topkapı Palace, which served as the seat of government and the harem for the Ottomans for 380 years before they relocated to a new palace. The final stop of the day is The Grand Bazaar. You will have the fantastic opportunity to stroll through the vibrant shops and purchase delightful souvenirs. The genuine atmosphere will transport you back in time as you venture and wander through its charming, narrow streets.
Inclusions:
• Guided tour of Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace and The Grand Bazaar
• Turkish cuisine lunch at a local restaurant
• Professional and knowledgeable tour guide
• Entrance fees to historical sites
Exclusions:
• Personal expenses
• Souvenirs or items purchased at The Grand Bazaar
• Harem section in Topkapı Palace