About this activity
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Itinerary
- Suggested Start Time: Flexible between 09:00 am and 10:30 am. Your private guide will meet you at your hotel, and you will set off in a comfortable private vehicle towards Istanbul's Old Town.
- Visit Topkapı Palace: Explore the expansive courtyards, imperial treasures, and the intricate Harem section of the palace. Approximate visit duration: 2 hours.
- Visit Hagia Sophia: Discover the stunning architecture and rich history of Hagia Sophia, tracing its transformation from a cathedral to a mosque. Approximate visit duration: 1 hour.
- Lunch at a Local Restaurant: Enjoy a delightful lunch at a selected local restaurant, savoring traditional Turkish cuisine. Dining expenses are not included in the tour price. Approximate duration: 1.5 hours.
- Visit Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı): Experience the serene ambiance and marvel at the Byzantine engineering of this underground water reservoir. Approximate visit duration: 1 hour.
- Return to Your Hotel: After your visits, your private transfer will take you back to your hotel.
Highlights
- Topkapı Palace: Discover the opulent courtyards, imperial treasures, and Harem section of the Ottoman Sultans’ former residence.
- Hagia Sophia: Explore the architectural marvel and historical significance of one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks.
- Yerebatan Sarnıcı (Basilica Cistern): Experience the underground beauty and Byzantine engineering of this serene subterranean structure.
- Tailored Guiding Experience: Accompanied by a licensed local guide fluent in your preferred language, ensuring a seamless and informative journey.
Includes
- Private transfer throughout the tour
- Licensed local guide in your preferred language
- Entrance fees to Topkapı Palace (including Harem and Hagia Irene Church)
- Entrance fees to Hagia Sophia
- Entrance fees to Yerebatan Cistern
- Drinks on the transfer vehicle (water, sparkling water)
- Specific vehicle request for transfer (additional fee applies)
- Meals (Lunch at a local restaurant included but not the cost of the meal)
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
Details
Dive into the heart of Istanbul’s historic Old Town with this full-day cultural journey. Your day begins at the awe-inspiring Topkapı Palace, the former imperial residence of the Ottoman Sultans. Explore its opulent courtyards, treasure-filled rooms, and learn about the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire as you uncover the secrets of royal life.
Next, step into the iconic Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture that has stood the test of time. Marvel at its breathtaking dome, intricate mosaics, and the layered history that has shaped this monumental structure as a church, mosque, and museum.
Continue your adventure with a visit to the Yerebatan Sarnıcı (Basilica Cistern), an atmospheric underground wonder that showcases the ingenuity of Byzantine engineering. The serene ambiance of its reflective waters and grand columns offers a mesmerizing experience.
This full-day tour offers a seamless blend of history, culture, and expert guidance, ensuring an unforgettable experience in Istanbul’s timeless Old Town.
Know Before You Go
Dress modestly and comfortably for walking and visiting religious sites.
The itinerary order and exact timings may vary due to weather or guide discretion.
What To Bring
Comfortable shoes for walking and head scarf.
A camera or smartphone to capture the highlights.
Cash or credit card for personal purchases.
