• German Fountain - Located at the northern end of the renowned Sultanahmet Square, the German Fountain, also known as the Kaiser William Fountain, was constructed in 1898 to honor the German Emperor’s visit to Istanbul. Crafted in a Neo-Byzantine style by a team of German and Italian architects, the fountain stands today as a symbol of the enduring friendship between Germany and Turkey.
• Sultanahmet District - Featuring structures from the early Byzantine to the late Ottoman periods, the vibrant Sultanahmet District is rich with historical and religious landmarks. Marvel at the stunning Hagia Sophia Museum, explore the luxurious lives of sultans at Topkapi Palace, venture underground to discover the Basilica Cistern, admire the active Blue Mosque with its intricate tile work, shop for unique souvenirs at the Grand Bazaar, and envision horse racing at the ancient Hippodrome site.

Most guided tours of the Sultanahmet District cover all six main attractions and often provide the convenience of skipping long lines. Choose from private or group tours of varying lengths to match your travel preferences and schedule.

• Hagia Sophia Mosque - Turkey’s (officially the Republic of Türkiye) magnificent Hagia Sophia is a spectacle of sweeping domes and varied minarets added over its extensive history. The grand interior features a series of domed and arched spaces, focusing on the shell-like apse and the massive dome, which appears to float unsupported, creating an incredible sense of space. Efforts continue to reveal the golden Christian mosaics and vibrant frescoes from the Byzantine era, which were covered by the Ottomans.

Tours often allow visitors to bypass long lines with a guide, and many Istanbul excursions combine the Hagia Sophia Museum with other attractions in Istanbul’s Sultanahmet neighborhood, including the Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Grand Bazaar, and Basilica Cistern.

• Hippodrome - The present-day Hippodrome follows the path of the ancient race track, though the actual remains are still buried underground. The square features the Obelisk of Theodosius, a pink, Egyptian-made granite column brought to Istanbul in the fourth century, making it one of the city’s oldest monuments. Also present are a spiraled obelisk from the temple of Apollo, the Walled Obelisk, and the German Fountain, a gift from Kaiser Wilhelm in the early 20th century.
• Blue Mosque - The Blue Mosque is one of Istanbul’s premier attractions, offering the chance to visit an active place of worship in the historic Sultanahmet neighborhood. Wander through the spacious courtyard and take a moment to absorb the ambiance inside the mosque’s vast and curvaceous interior beneath cascading domes.
• Blue Mosque - Home to some of Istanbul’s most iconic attractions, the Sultanahmet District is a perfect place to delve into the city’s rich history. With the rose-colored Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya) facing the six minarets of the Blue Mosque and just down the street from the lively Grand Bazaar, this neighborhood is brimming with cultural treasures.

• Professional guide
• Entrance fees (if option selected)

• Transfer
• Food and drinks

Embark on an adventure in the vibrant Sultanahmet district, where an expert guide will meet you at a convenient starting location. The journey begins at the iconic Blue Mosque, celebrated for its magnificent blue tiles.

As the guide shares the mosque’s rich history, you’ll be captivated by its enchanting ambiance. Take a moment to enjoy the sweeping views of modern Istanbul from the mosque’s courtyard before wandering through the historic streets.

Uncover the Hippodrome, once the bustling social and political hub of the city.

Witness the extraordinary transformation of this site from a Greek Orthodox cathedral to a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople. Marvel at the seamless fusion of mosque and church architecture, showcasing grand domes, towering minarets, and exquisite mosaics.

Proceed to the Hagia Sophia, where you’ll discover its intricate Iznik tiles, the famous Virgin Mary mosaic, and the fascinating tradition of sultans being interred in its courtyard.

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