Istanbul: Best of The City Full-Day Tour with Transfers

based on 89 reviews

Duration:7 hours (approx.)
Location: Istanbul, Turkey

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Best of Istanbul tour which will enhance your point of view of Ottomans vs Byzantines. It's not only a tour from the past but also an outlook on the future and shopping experience in istanbul.

•Hippodrome where Romans used to organize chariot races and gladiators' fights with its remaining Egyptian Obelisk, Serpentine Column, Constantine Column and German Fountain.

•Visit the famous Sultanahmet Mosque, also known as Blue Mosque due to its magnificent interior decoration of royal Iznik tiles

• Face the highlight of the earth, St. Sophia, built in 537 A. D. - unlike any other construction in the globe-.

• See Topkapi Palace where the great empire was ruled

•See Underground Cistern where Dan Brown's book ''INFERNO '' ended up.

•Finalize the day at the famous Grand Bazaar with 4000 shops.

• Get the personalized experience of a private tour

• Take your Photos as remarkable memory

• Make the Best of your limited Shopping time in Bilgins

• If selected option (Private Tour)

WHAT'S INCLUDED

WHAT TO EXPECT

1. Blue Mosque
The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, is a historic mosque in Istanbul, Turkey. It was built between 1609 and 1616 during the rule of Sultan Ahmed I. The mosque is known for its stunning architecture, with its six minarets and beautiful blue tiles adorning the interior, which give it the nickname "Blue Mosque." It is a popular tourist attraction and a significant symbol of Istanbul's skyline.
2. Hippodrome
The Hippodrome of Constantinople, also known as the Sultanahmet Square, is an ancient chariot racing track and the sporting and social center of Constantinople, the capital of the Byzantine Empire. Located in present-day Istanbul. the site is now a public square known for its historical significance and the remnants of its ancient structures. The Hippodrome was a major venue for chariot races and other public events during the Byzantine era. It was adorned with monuments and sculptures, some of which still stand today, including the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpent Column, and the Column of Constantine. These monuments are important relics from the Roman and Byzantine periods and provide a glimpse into the city's rich history. Today, the Hippodrome area is a popular tourist destination and a public space where visitors can explore the ancient ruins, learn about the historical and cultural heritage of Constantinople and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of modern Istanbul.
3. Hagia Sophia Mosque
The Hagia Sophia, also known as Ayasofya in Turkish, is a famous historic building located in oldtown Istanbul. It was originally built as the biggest cathedral in the world by Byzantine Empire in the 6th century and later converted into a mosque during the Ottoman Empire. The building is renowned for its massive dome and beautiful mosaics that reflect its rich history and architectural significance. In 1935, it was converted into a museum and in 2020, it was reconverted into a mosque. The Hagia Sophia has an important place in the art world with its architecture, grandness, size and functionality.The Hagia Sophia is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all around the world.
4. Basilica Cistern
Basilica Cistern Museum is one of the most important cultural assets where we can trace the traces of glorious Istanbul history. This grand underground cistern, built by Eastern Roman Emperor Justinian I (527-565), is nicknamed “Yerebatan Sarayı” (Sunken Palace) among the public due to its numerous marble columns rising from the water. It is also known as “Bazilika Sarnıcı” (Basilica Cistern) by some, as it was built on the site of the former Stoa Basilica, which was a basilica. the Basilica Cistern visited by former U.S. President Bill Clinton. Impresive Roman empire structure as featured in Dan Brown's novel, "Inferno" and James Bond "From Russia with Love" The Basilica Cistern is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world.
5. Topkapi Palace
The Topkapi Palace is a grand and historically significant palace located in Istanbul. It served as the primary residence and administrative headquarters of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. The palace complex is known for its stunning architecture, beautiful courtyards, and extensive collections of art, manuscripts, and other treasures. The Topkapi Palace consists of several interconnected courtyards and buildings, including the Imperial Harem, where the sultan's family resided. The palace also houses the Treasury, which contains an impressive collection of priceless jewels, including the famous Spoonmaker's Diamond and Topkapi Dagger. Today, the Topkapi Palace is a popular museum and a major tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Ottoman sultans and the rich history of the empire. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, drawing visitors from around the world to explore its magnificent grounds and learn about its fascinating past.
6. Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar, also known as the Kapalıçarşı, is one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, located in the heart of Istanbul. Dating back to the 15th century, the Grand Bazaar is a sprawling complex of over 60 streets and alleys, housing more than 4,000 shops and stalls. The bazaar is a vibrant and bustling place, offering a wide array of goods, including jewelry, carpets, textiles, ceramics, spices, leather goods, and traditional Turkish crafts. It's a paradise for shoppers looking for unique souvenirs and gifts. The architecture of the Grand Bazaar is a sight to behold, with its labyrinthine layout, vaulted ceilings, and colorful displays. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of Istanbul as they wander through the maze of shops and interact with local merchants.

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Posted By : codkat
Absolutely amazing day in Istanbul with Sema. She was delightful and full of knowledge. Everywhere we went people waved and smiled. She took us to her favorite places and shops!!! The city is alive with history- will always remember our day in Istanbul!!! Thank you!!
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-07-02 08:53:16

Posted By : Olga_B
Guide was knowledgeable and polite. We skipped the lines for Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern and topkapi palace. Lunch was really good and reasonable price. We joined the presentations in recommended stores. They were full of fun and informative. Grand bazaar was crowded but a big experience. Overall people who wants to see the All top stops must join this tour
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-06-27 15:43:36

Posted By : ledysvetlana
Guide well organized the sites and shopping. We saw the all highlights skipping the lines and had time to see Turkish bazaar and products. Highly recommended.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-06-27 15:34:59

Posted By : S6209RQrobertog
The excursion was great, great places to visit and you tour guide Serkan Albasan made the experience exceptional, don't miss lunch, great places of Turkish food
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-06-27 13:01:00

Posted By : brrronson
We did an all-day private walking tour with Serkan who was very knowledgeable, engaging and hospitable. We took the tram to the Hippodrome area and visited the Blue Mosque, place grounds and surrounding neighborhoods. The Roman cistern was amazing. He later took us to have a great lunch set far from the throngs of tourists. Wonderful time with Serkan. Ask for him.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-06-27 10:57:02

Posted By : 156manuelah
Wir waren total begeistert!
Es war ein wirklich sehr schöner, kurzweiliger und interessanter Tag mit Zel.
Eine Reise in die Vergangenheit von Istanbul mit vielen geschichtlichen Einblicken zu Istanbul und Insider Tipps für weitere Aktivitäten.
Ein weiterer Pluspunkt, kein anstehen an langen Schlangen.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-06-24 11:37:55

Posted By : Yolanda C
All was perfect great guide, named Serkan Elbasan.
Great places, great explanations.
Bus was nice, spacious.
We were a group of 10, we visit all mezquitas with detail guide and explanation
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-06-19 15:36:28

Posted By : Coastal02764301214
Arda was a very good tour guide. We really enjoyed the trip and would like to recommend it to anyone. Most of Istanbul's top attractions are included in this trip.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-06-19 11:18:01

Posted By : denezem
We have just spent a very enjoyable day tour of Istanbul with our own tour guide Erkan Elibuyuk his wealth of knowledge on the history of Istanbul was amazing and most interesting . The fact that it was a private tour meant that we could walk at our own pace with no rush. The tour covered everything we wanted to do and see.Blue Mosque, Basilica cistern, Hagia Sophia and much more. Well worth the money.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-06-18 11:25:44

Posted By : raymondt822
We had a wonderful day. Zel was a font of knowledge. Her enthusiasm and love of Instanbul City was infectious and gave us a great insight into Turkish history and culture. Would recommend this tour and Zel in particular.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-06-16 10:40:37