Istanbul City Tour 5 Hour
Discover the magnificent heart of historic Istanbul on this immersive walking tour
through Sultanahmet, where two great empires left their indelible marks. Your journey
begins at the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, a 6th-century architectural marvel that served
as the world's largest cathedral for nearly a millennium before becoming an imperial
mosque. Marvel at its massive dome, intricate Byzantine mosaics, and Islamic calligraphy
that tell the story of Constantinople's transformation into Istanbul.
Steps away stands the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque), an Ottoman masterpiece adorned
with over 20,000 handmade Iznik tiles in mesmerizing shades of blue. Experience the
serenity of its cascading domes and six slender minarets that define Istanbul's iconic
skyline.
Between these two monuments lies the Hippodrome, once the social heart of Byzantine
Constantinople where chariot races drew crowds of 100,000 spectators. Today, explore its
ancient Egyptian obelisk, the Serpent Column from Delphi, and the German Fountain
gifted by Kaiser Wilhelm II.
Complete your journey at the legendary Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and
largest covered markets. Lose yourself in a labyrinth of over 4,000 shops where silk
carpets, ceramics, spices, jewelry, and Turkish delights await. Learn the art of Turkish
bargaining and discover treasures to bring home.
Highlights:
- Hagia Sophia's 1,500-year-old Byzantine architecture and Islamic elements
- Blue Mosque's stunning interior with 260 windows and blue Iznik tiles
- Ancient Hippodrome monuments spanning 3,500 years of history
- Grand Bazaar shopping experience with local insights
Duration: 5 hours
Locations: Sultanahmet Square, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Grand Bazaar
