Istanbul

Istanbul Old City Tour

Duration

3 days

Tour Type

Reviews

4.5 /5

Overview

Tour plan

Reviews

Description

Welcome to Istanbul, the city of chaos and mystery! It is one of the largest and most populated cities in Turkey known for its exotic beauty and wonderful historic monuments. It is a blend of a modern western with a traditional eastern city which is why it is called a multicultural city where you will find friendly and welcoming people around you who are very proud of their culture and traditions. It is recommended for you to try the diverse Turkish cuisine from the breakfast with eggs, cheese and olives to their delicious kebabs for dinner and of course, do not miss out on the Turkish tea and the famous Turkish delight.

Even if you have one day in Istanbul, you can still visit all the main attractions Istanbul is famous for. A day in the Old City is a great introduction to Istanbul as you discover the best eateries and dine where the locals do and enjoy the legacy of a city that is surrounded by historic and cultural treasures. Your private guide will meet you at the gate of airport with your name sign upon your arrival. Then he will drive you to the Old City for the tour. Itinerary may change according to your availability and day.

Highlights

Hagia Sophia
Byzantine Hippodrome
Blue Mosque
Topkapi Palace
Grand Bazaar
Basilica Cistern

Tour Included:

English, Arabic Speaking Local Tour Guide

Local Taxes

Airport pick-up/ Drop-off

Lunch

Entrance fee

Tour Excluded:

Personal Expenses

Drinks

Tour Plan

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Hagia Sophia

First of all, it was built as a Christian cathedral during the Byzantine Empire in the 6. Century. It is located in Istanbul, Turkey. After the Ottoman conquest in 1453, it was converted into a mosque. It is famous for its huge dome and intricate mosaics. It was converted into a museum in 1935 and again into a mosque in 2020. It has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. It symbolizes the coexistence of different cultures and religions in Istanbul.

Byzantine Hippodrome

Built in Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) in the early 3rd century AD. Used for chariot races, athletic competitions, and public events. Located near the Great Palace and Hagia Sophia. Adorned with monuments and obelisks, including the Obelisk of Theodosius and the Serpent Column. Witnessed significant historical events, such as the Nika riots in 532 AD. Declined in use and fell into disrepair over time. Remnants of the Hippodrome can still be seen in Istanbul today.

Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque:

Built between 1609 and 1616 during the reign of Sultan Ahmed I. Located in Istanbul, Turkey, adjacent to the Hagia Sophia. Known for its distinctive blue tiles and six minarets. Active mosque for daily prayers and open to visitors outside of prayer times. Popular tourist attraction, showcasing both Ottoman and Byzantine architectural influences.

Topkapi Palace

Built in the 15th century by Mehmed the Conqueror, the Ottoman Sultan. Located in Istanbul, Turkey, overlooking the Golden Horn, Bosphorus, and the Sea of Marmara. Served as the primary residence and administrative headquarters of the Ottoman Sultans for nearly 400 years. Consists of various courtyards, gardens, and buildings, including the Harem, where the Sultan's family resided. Houses numerous collections of art, manuscripts, and artifacts, including the Spoonmaker's Diamond and the Topkapi Dagger. Converted into a museum in 1924 after the establishment of the Republic of Turkey. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Istanbul's most visited attractions, offering insights into Ottoman history, culture, and architecture.

Grand Bazaar

One of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. Located in the heart of Istanbul, Turkey, near the historical peninsula. Founded in the 15th century after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople. Comprises over 4,000 shops and stalls spread across 61 covered streets and alleys. Offers a wide range of goods, including jewelry, textiles, ceramics, spices, and souvenirs. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, intricate architecture, and maze-like layout. A popular tourist destination and a cultural landmark, attracting millions of visitors annually.

Basilica Cistern

Built during the Byzantine era, likely in the 6th century AD. Located in Istanbul, Turkey, near the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Originally constructed to store water for the city during Byzantine times. Features an impressive underground chamber supported by hundreds of marble columns. Known for its mystical atmosphere, with dim lighting and water reflections. Has been featured in various films, novels, and artworks due to its unique ambiance. Open to the public as a tourist attraction, offering guided tours to explore its history and architecture.

Customer Reviews

4.5/5

Wonderful

8 verified reviews

Location 4.5

Amenities 4.5

Services 4.5

Price 4.5

Rooms 4.5

0 Comments

Joe Doe June 30, 2022

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5
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I am 6 feet tall and 220 lbs. This shirt fit me perfectly in the chest and shoulders. My only complaint is that it is so long! I like to wear polo shirts untucked. This shirt goes completely past my rear end. If I wore it with ordinary shorts, you probably wouldnt be able to see the shorts at all – completely hidden by the shirt. It needs to be 4 to 5 inches shorter in terms of length to suit me. I have many RL polo shirts, and this one is by far the longest. I dont understand why.
Kenneth R. Myers June 30, 2022

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4
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The shirt was not the fabric I believed it to be. It says Classic Fit but was made like the older versions, not the soft cotton like my others. I don’t understand how the labels are the same but a completely different shirt. Oh well, stuck with it now.
Mike Addington June 30, 2022

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4
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Real authentic genuine quality however it fit me like an XL size when In fact Im L. Beware
Ervin Arlington June 30, 2022

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4
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The Ralph Lauren quaility is here in abundance. My husband always says that the Lauren polos fit better and last longer than any other brand.I love the new \”heathered\” color and the price is always excellent through shop
Patrick M. Newman June 30, 2022

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5
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My son loved this Jacket for his Senior Prom… He got sooo many compliments! He is slim build 5’11 and 150lbs … I ordered a large … it was a little big … but it was fine!
Elicia June 30, 2022

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5
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Jonh Tery June 30, 2022

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4
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It would be great to try this theme for my businesses
Lee Han June 30, 2022

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5
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