Excursion Istanbul highlights tour at Istanbul

Discover Istanbul's historic treasures during this memorable, half-day orientation tour of the city.

Hippodrome

Depart the pier for a scenic drive toward the Hippodrome, the centre of Byzantium's life for nearly 1,000 years, and for another 400 during Ottoman rule. With seating for 100,000, the Hippodrome was Constantinople's political and entertainment hub, hosting gladiator fights, chariot races, and other sporting events. The most prominent monument remaining today is the impressive granite obelisk, brought here from Egypt in 390 A.D.. Leaving the Hippodrome, You will have chance to view the Blue Mosque before head to your next destination. This incredible monument was completed in 1616 and is a triumph of harmony, proportion and elegance.

Hagia Sophia Mosque

Your tour continues with a visit to the St. Sophia Mosque, also known as the 'Church of Divine Wisdom'. First erected by Constantine in 325 A.D. and later rebuilt by the Holy Roman Emperor Justinian, the mosque is considered the Eighth Wonder of the World by many historians. At one time, it may have been the world's largest building, and as a manmade structure ranked only behind the Great Pyramids of Egypt and the Great Wall of China. For many centuries, St. Sophia was the world's largest church, and today remains the fourth-largest behind St. Paul's in London, St. Peter's in Rome, and Duomo in Milan. The minarets that tower above the gigantic dome were added after Istanbul's conquest in 1453, when the church was converted into a mosque.

Grand Bazaar or Spice Market

Your tour concludes with a visit to the Grand Bazaar. The world's largest covered market, this famous institution occupies a whole city quarter. Sections spanning a maze of lanes and alleys separate the various trades. A brief orientation and general directions are offered before setting out on your own to browse the precious handmade carpets, jewellery, leather, and souvenirs. Keep your eyes out for bargains, and get ready to negotiate and soak in the unparalleled atmosphere of one the world's great merchant centres.

Please note that if the tour operates on Sunday, it will stop at the Spice Market instead of the Grand Bazaar because the Grand Bazaar is closed on sundays.

Following your visit, re-board the coach for the return drive to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this may excursion include: Old City, Hippodrome, Hagia Sophia Mosque, Grand Bazaar

Note

Please note: This tour includes a moderate to extensive amount of walking for approximately 2 miles (about 3.2 kilometres) over cobblestones and uneven ground. Proper attire is required to enter the St. Sophia Mosque; no shorts above the knee or sleeveless tops are permitted, ladies must have their heads, shoulders and arms covered. Visit to St. Sophia Mosque will take place to the upper gallery floor and access via ramp and few steps. Guides’ commentary will be limited inside the mosque regarding to official rules and headsets devices will be used during the visit. As guests make their way back to the exit, they will encounter 30 steps before reaching the ramp, followed by a few steps and cobblestone road just before exit. The mosque is not wheelchair accessible.  Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Please bring local currency or USD if you wish to purchase souvenirs at the Grand Bazaar. The tour sequence may vary. On Sundays the Grand Bazaar is closed and the visit will be replaced by the Spice Market.