• Hagia Sophia Mosque - Hagia Sophia, also known as the Church of Divine Wisdom, is a renowned landmark in Istanbul. Constructed in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian, this architectural marvel showcases the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Visitors can choose to enter the interior, with tickets available for purchase on-site (approximately €25 per person).

• Topkapi Palace - Once the residence of Ottoman sultans, Topkapi Palace provides an intriguing look into imperial life. The palace boasts impressive courtyards and collections, including the Imperial Treasury, sacred Islamic relics of Prophet Muhammad, royal kitchens, Chinese porcelain, weapons, and calligraphy.

Benefit from skip-the-line entry with pre-arranged tickets, allowing access without waiting in ticket queues.

Please be aware that live guide commentary is restricted in certain areas. The Harem section is included and can be explored individually.

• Blue Mosque - The Blue Mosque, officially the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is situated opposite Hagia Sophia and is one of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks. It is renowned for its beautiful blue İznik tiles and distinctive architecture featuring six elegant minarets, built in honor of Sultan Ahmed I.

Entry is free; however, visitors are kindly asked to adhere to the dress code, and visiting hours may vary during prayer times.

• Hippodrome - The Hippodrome was the center for sporting events (chariot races, athletics) and political activities in the ancient city. The Serpentine Column, Obelisk of Theodosius, and German Fountain of Wilhelm II are the monuments adorning the Hippodrome.
• Grand Bazaar - The Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets globally, is a must-see in Istanbul. With nearly 4,000 shops, it offers a lively atmosphere where you can explore a wide range of goods, including antiques, jewelry, gold, carpets, leather products, and souvenirs.

Enjoy free time to wander through its vibrant alleys and experience the traditional shopping culture.

A demonstration of handmade Turkish carpets can be arranged upon request.

• German Fountain - The German Fountain is a gazebo-style fountain located at the northern end of the old Hippodrome (Sultanahmet Square), Istanbul, Turkey, and across from the Mausoleum of Sultan Ahmed I.
• Obelisk of Theodosius - The Obelisk of Theodosius is an Ancient Egyptian obelisk of Pharaoh Thutmose III, re-erected in the Hippodrome of Constantinople (now known as At Meydanı or Sultanahmet Meydanı, in modern-day Istanbul, Turkey) by the Roman emperor Theodosius I in the 4th century AD.
• Bilgin Rug House - Enjoy a special shopping stop in the Sultanahmet area, where you can explore a curated selection of high-quality leather goods crafted with traditional Turkish craftsmanship. Discover stylish jackets, bags, and accessories while experiencing the artistry behind this long-standing local trade.

This stop is optional and offers a relaxed opportunity to browse and shop at your own pace.

• Entrance fees of Topkapı Palace Museum
• Professional guide
• Lunch
• Guaranteed to skip the long lines
• Surcharges on fuel
• Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only)

• Drinks
• Gratuities
• Entrance fees of Hagia Sophia Museum €25

Full-Day Istanbul Highlights Tour

Embark on a journey through the vibrant history of Istanbul with this comprehensive full-day tour. Delve into the tales of Roman Byzantium, Byzantine Constantinople, and Ottoman Istanbul as you visit the city’s most renowned landmarks.

Tour Highlights

• Hippodrome of Constantinople – once the bustling hub of Roman social and political life
• Blue Mosque – an Ottoman architectural marvel, celebrated for its stunning blue İznik tiles
• Topkapi Palace – home to Ottoman sultans for more than four centuries
• Grand Bazaar – among the oldest and largest covered markets in the world

Experience Istanbul with Ease

Benefit from skip-the-line access at select attractions, maximizing your time and bypassing lengthy ticket lines.

Explore the city comfortably with a professional licensed guide and enjoy smooth organization throughout the day.

• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
• Tour price includes A/C transportation, guidance in multiple languages, entrance fees of Topkapı Palace, lunch and taxes
• Drinks are not included during the lunch
• Please kindly be ready by the hotel reception 10 minutes before departure time
• Guests who prefer not to spend time at courtesy transfers should be ready at our departure point 10 minutes before given departure time (09:00am)
• Non smoking on our tours but all tours make frequent stops
• Local Experiences Istanbul is not responsible for loss or theft of personal belongings during the tour
• Guests who do not want to wait at the long queues of Hagia Sophia Museum, they can buy the ticket from their guide

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.