Istanbul Old City Full-Day Tour

Embark on a Time-Traveling Expedition: Unveil the Historical Tapestry of Istanbul in a Full-Day Journey

Step into a realm where the echoes of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires reverberate through time. Your adventure begins with a hotel pick-up, followed by a seamless transfer to the Hippodrome—a vibrant nexus of political intrigue and sporting spectacles during the illustrious eras of the Roman and Byzantine Empires.

As you stand amidst the remnants of this grand complex, marvel at the last vestiges that grace its landscape. Behold the monumental Obelisk, a sentinel from Egypt, and the Serpentine Column, bearing stories from the oracle of Delphi. Your journey continues to the resplendent Church of St. Sophia, a sanctuary hailed as the “Church of Holy Wisdom” and famously known as “Hagia Sophia.” This architectural masterpiece, once a church and then a mosque, now stands as a testament to Byzantine legacy, housing a treasure trove of artifacts from its opulent past.

Gaze upon the Blue Mosque, an emblem of Istanbul’s skyline, adorned with the mesmerizing Iznik tiles. Its graceful minarets reach towards the heavens, a sight that captivates from every corner of the city. Traverse the labyrinthine alleyways of the Grand Bazaar, a sprawling emporium that bears witness to millennia of commerce. In its embrace, encounter a world of ornate jewelry, intricate leather craftsmanship, exquisite souvenirs, and the allure of carpets that beckon with tales of distant lands. With more than 4,000 shops, it’s a sensory delight that promises treasures at every turn.

The journey unveils yet another facet of history at the Topkapi Palace, a sanctuary once inhabited by Ottoman sultans. Here, a symphony of elegance awaits, adorned with a curated collection of crystal, silverware, and the delicate beauty of Chinese porcelain. The robes that once adorned sultans and the iridescence of the Imperial Treasury’s jewels bear witness to a bygone era.

As the day unfolds, the Sultans Tombs beckon—a serene ensemble of 16th-century ceramic panels adorned with hues of purple, green, blue, and red blooms. Within these hallowed grounds at St. Sophia, the resting place of five Ottoman Sultans stands as a testament to their legacy. Here, the prince’s regalia and a fragment from the revered Kaaba weave a narrative of spiritual significance. Note that the Sultans Tombs embrace tranquility on Mondays, leading you to the Little Hagia Sophia Mosque—a splendid alternative to satiate your quest for historical immersion.

Venture forth on this immersive journey, where the annals of time converge in a majestic dance of architectural splendor, cultural riches, and the spirit of eras long past.