Echoes of Empires

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From 790 USD / Per Person

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From790 USD /per_person

Select Date

About this activity

Uncover the vibrant past of Istanbul on a half-day private tour, exploring Ottoman and Byzantine treasures like Topkapı Palace, Hagia Irene Church, and the majestic Hagia Sophia. With a licensed guide, experience the grandeur of imperial life and architectural splendor.

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 the Topkapı Palace
Visit Topkapı Palace: Explore the grand courtyards, Hagia Irene Church, and the opulent Harem section of the palace. Approximate visit duration: 2 hours.
Visit Hagia Sophia: Discover the architectural splendor and historical mosaics of this iconic monument, tracing its transformation from a cathedral to a mosque. Approximate visit duration: 1.5 hours.
Return to your hotel: After your visits, your private transfer will take you back to your hotel.

Highlights

Topkapı Palace: Explore the magnificent courtyards, imperial chambers, and the Harem section of the palace once home to the Ottoman sultans.
Hagia Irene Church: Visit one of Istanbul's oldest churches, located within the grounds of Topkapı Palace.
Hagia Sophia: Admire the awe-inspiring dome, stunning mosaics, and calligraphic panels of this architectural wonder.
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
Drinks on the transfer vehicle (water, sparkling water)
Entrance fees to the Hagia Sophia
Entrance fees to Topkapı Palace (including Harem and Hagia Irene Church)
Licensed Local Guide in Your Preferred Language
Specific vehicle request for transfer (additional fee applies)
Personal expenses, including dining

Details

Step into the rich history of Istanbul with the Echoes of Empires half-day tour, offering an immersive journey through the Ottoman and Byzantine legacies. Begin your tour with a private transfer to Topkapı Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans. Explore its opulent courtyards, chambers, and the historic Harem, all while learning about the grand lifestyle of the Ottoman rulers. You will also visit Hagia Irene Church, one of the oldest churches in Istanbul, nestled within the palace grounds.

Next, continue your journey to Hagia Sophia, a true architectural masterpiece that has stood the test of time. Originally built as a cathedral during the Byzantine Empire, it was later converted into a mosque, and now serves as a mosque again. Admire its awe-inspiring dome, intricate mosaics, and calligraphy, reflecting the evolution of Istanbul’s spiritual and artistic landscape.

With your expert guide, this half-day tour offers a fascinating glimpse into Istanbul’s storied past and the legacies of two powerful empires—the Ottomans and Byzantines.

Know Before You Go

Recommended Start Time: Between 09:30 and 11:00.
Duration: 4-5 hours.
Dress Code: Comfortable and modest attire suitable for walking and visiting religious sites.
What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, camera, cash or credit card for personal purchases
Itinerary may vary: Based on local conditions and guide recommendations.