Half Day Istanbul Classic Tour

General information

Destination
Istanbul, Turkey

Program details

What's Unique:

• Enjoy a half day tour of the UNESCO site of Sultanahmet Old Istanbul with an extensive guided walking tour.

• You'll enjoy the magical Istanbul and its signature sights: the Blue Mosque Hagia Sophia and Grand Bazaar.



Description & Program: Upon our pick up from the hotel firstly we visit Hagia Sophia Museum. Built in the 6th century AD and then converted in a mosque in 1453 it was the first large domed building of the world and religious focal point of the Orthodox Church for 1000 years. We learn its history from our expert local guide and have a look at its unique decoration from Byzantine and Turkish periods. Unlike of most city tours, our guide will also take us to the upper galleries. We enjoy a short walk from here across to Blue Mosque which owes its fame to the exquisite blue Iznik Tiles adorning its interior walls. Hippodrome is next to here. Here we see an Egyptian Obelisk and the Snake Column from ancient Roman Empire which used to promote regional power during horse chariots races. Next, you will see the German Fountain which was a gift of Kaiser Wilhelm 2. Listen the stories of his liaison with the orient.



We then go to the exciting Grand Bazaar. Following the introduction by our guide at Turkey’s biggest oriental carpet export center we will have some free time to browse its 1.200 spice and gold shops. If time permits we have a short stop at an Istanbul leather wholesaler firm. After the tour transfer back to the hotel.



Note:

Please note that the order of the sight seeing tour may vary depending on crowds