Take a half-day tour in the ancient district of Sultanahmet to see some of Istanbul's most famous landmarks. Explore the stunning interior of Blue Mosque, take in the history of the Hagia Sophia, and see the impressive Hippodrome and German Fountain.
About this activity
- Free cancellation
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
- COVID-19 precautions
- Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
- Mobile ticketing
- Use your phone or print your voucher
- Duration 4 hours
- Starting time 9:00 AM
- Skip the ticket line
- Instant confirmation
- Live tour guide
- English
- Pickup included
- Pickup is available from centrally-located Istanbul hotels within Taksim Square, Şişli, Beşiktaş, Sultanahmet, and Fatih neighborhoods.
Experience
Highlights
- Take a walk through Istanbul's beautiful Sultanahmet district and see some of the city's best sights
- Admire the beautiful architecture and interior of the Blue Mosque
- Walk along the historic Hippodrome and it's impressive monuments, including the German Fountain
- Experience centuries of religion and fascinating history at the magnificent Hagia Sophia
Full description
Experience Istanbul's remarkable and historic highlights on a half-day tour through the city's most picturesque area, a must for any visitor to this unforgettable city.
Our day will begin at the Hagia Sophia - The Church of Divine Wisdom. This amazing structure was first dedicated as a church by the Roman Emperor Justinian in the year 360, was turned into a mosque during Ottoman rule, and was opened to the public as a museum in 1935. Admire the layers of history in this beautiful building.
Next, you will see the German Fountain, a gift from Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany to Ottoman Sultan Abdulhamid. Hear the fascinating story of the Kaiser's trips to the Ottoman Empire, and the relationship forged between the two rulers.
Then, walk along the nearby and beautifully preserved Hippodrome, where the chariot races were once organized by the Romans and Byzantines. The Hippodrome is home to even more impressive monuments, including a magnificent Egyptian obelisk.
Finally, explore the Blue Mosque, Istanbul's first mosque with six minarets, dating back to 1616. This stunning piece of architecture takes its name from the amazing blue tiles that decorate its interior.
Includes
- Professional guide
- Entrance fees
- Hotel pickup
- Hotel drop-off
- Lunch
- Beverages
- Personal expenses
Not suitable for
- Wheelchair users
COVID-19 precautions
Customers must book this activity online because the ticket office is closed
Safety measures in place
- All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
- Customers must keep distance in vehicles
- The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
Traveler requirements
- Customers are required to bring and wear masks
Select participants and date
Participants
Date
Prepare for the activity
Important information
Not allowed
- Pets
- Luggage or large bags
Know before you go
- Caferaga Medrese and Blue Mosque will switch places in the itinerary on Fridays
- Hagia Sophia Museum is closed on Mondays, it will be replaced with Chora Museum
- The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays, it will be replaced with Arasta Bazaar
