Itinerary

1. Istanbul Sightseeing

   • Meet your tour guide at the agreed-upon location and begin the tour.

   • Visit the Sultan Ahmet Center, the heart of the 'Old City', from where the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires were ruled.

   • Propel to the Hagia Sophia, the Church of Divine Wisdom and one of the greatest marvels of architecture, which was constructed as a basilica in the 6th-century by Emperor Justinian.

   • Move to the Blue Mosque facing Hagia Sophia, which is famous for its blue İznik tiles and unique 6 minarets built in the name of Sultan Ahmet.

   • Marvel at the Hippodrome, the centre of sportive events (chariot races, athletics) and political activities of the old city. Serpentine Column, Obelisk of Theodosius and German Fountain of Wilhelm II are the monuments decorating the Hippodrome.

   • Saunter at the Grand Covered Bazaar, which is the most attractive shopping centre. It is the biggest souk in the world with nearly 4000 shops selling antiques, jewellery, gold, carpets, leatherware and souvenir. (Art demonstration of handmade Turkish carpets available upon request)

   • Relish an authentic lunch at a Turkish restaurant.

   • Proceed to the Topkapı Palace, the residence of Ottoman Sultans exhibiting imperial treasury, sacred Islamic relics of Prophet Mohammed, kitchen, Chinese porcelain, weapons, calligraphy section etc. Live guide commentary is not allowed in special sections. (Harem is not included in the program).

   • Move to the Sultan Tombs. There are five tombs of Ottoman Sultans within the graveyard at Hagia Sophia. The ceramic panels are the most beautiful examples of the 16th century with purple, red, green and blue flower motifs. 

   • See the Galata Bridge, Golden Horn and Leander's Tower.