Discover Istanbul’s rich history and vibrant culture on this full-day tour. Visit Topkapı Palace, the grand Ottoman sultans’ residence with stunning Bosphorus views. Explore Hagia Sophia, a Byzantine masterpiece with its vast dome and mosaics. Experience the Sultanahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque), famous for its blue İznik tiles. Wander through Hippodrome Square, home to historic monuments like the Obelisk of Theodosius. Finally, immerse yourself in the vibrant Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı), one of the world’s oldest covered markets, full of traditional crafts. Enjoy skip-the-line tickets, private transport, and an expert English-speaking guide.

• Pickup from your hotel or central meeting point at 09:00 AM

• Visit Topkapı Palace, former Ottoman sultans’ residence with royal chambers and Bosphorus views

• Explore Hagia Sophia, Byzantine architectural masterpiece with vast dome and exquisite mosaics

• Tour the Sultanahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque), known for beautiful blue tiles and six minarets

• Walk through historic Hippodrome Square, viewing monuments like the Obelisk of Theodosius and Serpent Column

• Take a relaxing break for lunch at a local restaurant (meals not included)

• Experience the vibrant Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı), exploring artisan shops and traditional crafts

• Drop-off at your hotel or preferred location around 4:30 PM

• Licensed English-speaking professional guide (other languages available on request)

• Private air-conditioned vehicle with experienced driver

• Entrance fees with skip-the-line tickets for Topkapı Palace, Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet Mosque

• Hotel pickup and drop-off within Istanbul city center

• Meals and drinks (lunch break provided as free time, meals not covered)

• Personal expenses and optional purchases at the Grand Bazaar or elsewhere

• Tips and gratuities

• Modest dress required for mosque visits (shoulders and knees covered)

• Comfortable shoes recommended for walking on cobblestones

• Security checks apply; skip-the-line tickets reduce waiting times but not security lines

• Audio guides available upon request (additional fee)

• Tour duration approximately 8 hours, including lunch break

• Lunch is not included but can be arranged upon request

What to Bring:

• Scarf or head covering for modesty

Restricted Items:

• Shorts

• Mini skirts

• Sleeveless tops

Before Your Visit:

• Currently, guides are not permitted inside Hagia Sophia; your historical guide will provide information outside. You can enter later with your ticket and audio guide application.

• Tickets allow you to bypass the ticket lines for both Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern, but security checks must still be completed in order.

• During busy seasons, security waits can last up to 60 minutes at Hagia Sophia and around 30 minutes at the Basilica Cistern.

• Your ticket grants access to the Visitor Area and Upper Gallery of Hagia Sophia, but not the prayer section.

• Both men and women are required to cover their knees. If you are wearing shorts, a body cover can be bought for 100 TRY.

• The Basilica Cistern will be closed for maintenance on July 29th, 30th, and 31st. On those dates, visitors will tour the Theodosius Cistern instead.

👗 Dress Code:

• Please wear modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders.

• Comfortable footwear is recommended.

🚗 Transportation Details

Private, air-conditioned vehicle with professional driver familiar with Istanbul traffic.

👩‍💼 Guide Information

Licensed English-speaking professional guide included. Other languages available upon request and subject to availability.

🏨 Pickup & Drop-off Points

Pickup and drop-off available at hotels or central locations in Istanbul city center. Cruise ship passenger pickup upon request.

Itinerary can be personalized to fit your preferences and timing. Please inform us in advance for any special requests.

• Booking deadline: 12 hours before tour start

• Free cancellation: up to 24 hours before

• Valid Until: April 2026