Istambul City Tours - Classic Istanbul

You are collected from your hotel and start the day with a visit to Haghia Sophia, the most influential church of Byzantium. Originally built by Emperor Constantine in the 4th century, reconstructed by Emperor Justinian in 6th century and converted into a mosque by the Ottomans in the 15th century, it still stands today as one of the world's greatest architectural marvels. Unequaled in size for a 1000 years, the magnificent interior is testament to the unique east-west synthesis that is manifest in Istanbul. Shimmering biblical mosaics juxtapose huge plaques bearing the names of Islamic caliphs.

You then visit the Blue Mosque, another of the world's most important religious buildings. Built in the 16th century the mosque is unique for it's 6 minarets and celestial interior decorated with the famous blue Iznik tiles.

Next, visit the Hippodrome, scene of chariot races. Although little remains of the great stadium which, in its hey day, is thought to have held 100'000 people, the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column and the Column of Constantine are highlights.

From here explore the Basilica Cistern, a vast underground water depot constructed to meet the needs of the Palace of Constantinople.

After lunch explore the grand Topkapi Palace, residence of Ottoman Sultan's from the 15th to the 19th century. With its impressive treasury, exquisite harem, attractive courtyards and pavilions housing huge collections of antiquities, Topkapi Palace offers a true insight into the heart of the Ottoman Empire.

Guided Walking Tour of Old Istanbul Explore Byzantine and Ottoman Treasures

This classic tour gives you an insight into the fascinating history of this great city, Concentrating on the Sultanahment area, this is a walking tour that highllights the great Byzantine church, Haghia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and allows you plenty of time to explore the mind boggling Topkapi Palace, hub of the Ottoman Empire.
Itinerary
You are collected from your hotel and start the day with a visit to Haghia Sophia, the most influential church of Byzantium. Originally built by Emperor Constantine in the 4th century, reconstructed by Emperor Justinian in 6th century and converted into a mosque by the Ottomans in the 15th century, it still stands today as one of the world's greatest architectural marvels. Unequaled in size for a 1000 years, the magnificent interior is testament to the unique east-west synthesis that is manifest in Istanbul. Shimmering biblical mosaics juxtapose huge plaques bearing the names of Islamic caliphs. You then visit the Blue Mosque, another of the world's most important religious buildings. Built in the 16th century the mosque is unique for it's 6 minarets and celestial interior decorated with the famous blue Iznik tiles. Next, visit the Hippodrome, scene of chariot races. Although little remains of the great stadium which, in its hey day, is thought to have held 100'000 people, the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column and the Column of Constantine are highlights. From here explore the Basilica Cistern, a vast underground water depot constructed to meet the needs of the Palace of Constantinople. After lunch explore the grand Topkapi Palace, residence of Ottoman Sultan's from the 15th to the 19th century. With its impressive treasury, exquisite harem, attractive courtyards and pavilions housing huge collections of antiquities, Topkapi Palace offers a true insight into the heart of the Ottoman Empire. Finish the day off at the Grand Bazaar.



Prices
Tour price £75 per person. £50 single supplement. PRICE INCLUDES The above tour with a private licensed guide Entrance fees during guided sightseeing PRICE EXCLUDES Personal expenses, lunch, alcohol, tips This tour is guided by Geo Tourism on behalf of Journey Anatolia Ltd. Geo Tourism are one of the leading ground service providers in Istanbul. They are established members of TURSAB in addition to being fully licensed by the Turkish Ministry of Tourism.