Highlights of Istanbul Old City

Tour Summary

Type: Culture, History, Shopping

Length: 4 Hours

Timing: This half day tour must start before 9:00 AM or after 1:00 PM.

You walk along the old city walls and under the ancient Roman aqueduct on the way to St. Sophia (Haghia Sophia), the splendid Church of Divine Wisdom built in the 4th century BC. St Sophia's dome was then the largest in the world. After several conquests and pillages, the building was converted into a mosque, but fell into disrepair as centuries passed. The brilliant Byzantine mosaics were uncovered in the 1900s and the church now is a breathtaking Byzantine-Ottoman museum.

• Next you walk to the Hippodrome used for outdoor chariot races in Roman times. Today it is lined with parks, obelisks and monuments. Next to the Hippodrome is the famous Blue Mosque, named for its richly adorned interior of magnificent Iznik tiles. Your guide will take you through the Blue Mosque and provide an explanation of this Western leaning Muslim country.

• Finally you are taken to the Grand Bazaar which houses more than 4,000 stalls selling local goods. Or, if you prefer, you can request to visit the Egyptian Spice Market instead.

Tour Breakdown:

1- Tour St. Sophia - 1 Hour

2- Walk to Hippodrome - Blue Mosque- 10 Minutes

3- Visit Hippodrome - Blue Mosque- 40 Minutes

4- Drive to Grand Bazaar - 10 Minutes

5- Enjoy Shopping in Grand Bazaar - 1 Hour

6- Return to pier - 20 Minutes

• Total tour time is approximately 4 hours. Please note that this itinerary requires walking and includes uneven surfaces. It is not wheelchair accessible. The tour prices listed below are for your entire private group. They are NOT per person prices! Entrance fees are per person and are added to the tour price.