DEPARTURE POINT : Istanbul
DEPARTURE TIME : 08:30/09:00 depends on traffic ( Please check with travel consultant exact pick up time for available locations )
DURATION : 7- 8 Hrs (approx.)
MEAL : Lunch
AVAILABILITY : Everyday except Tuesday
TOUR BASIS : Small Groups
NO HIDDEN COST
Meet with Guide at Hotel Lobby
Heading to Ottoman & Byzantine Heritages
HIGHLIGHTS ON BELOW ;
Hagia Sophia i Kerim Mosque , Topkapi Palace , Hippodrome , Blue Mosque , Hagia Irene Museum,Grand Bazaar
ISTANBUL is the largest city in Turkey, home to both locals and people from around the world living together in harmony. This unique multicultural spirit has been shaped since the Ottoman era.
At the heart of the city lies the historic peninsula, filled with stunning landmarks and magnificent remains of Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman civilizations.
HAGIA SOPHIA-I KEBIR MOSQUE : The cradle of faith where people have worshipped since the 6th century until today. The deep respect for religion has left remarkable marks of history that can still be seen today. The building served as a church for 916 years, later as a mosque for 481 years, and for a short period as a museum from the 1930s to 2020.
BLUE MOSQUE : One of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture, the Blue Mosque stands out among 17th-century structures with its six elegant minarets and over 21,000 stunning blue tiles that decorate its interior.
HIPPODROME : The Hippodrome was the main social gathering place of the city, once used for horse racing and public events. It is home to remarkable monuments, some brought from different cultures such as Egypt, as well as the Column of Constantine, from which the city once took its name.
TOPKAPI PALACE : The central residence of the Ottoman Empire, where sultans and their dynasty lived together. This vast complex features four courtyards and served as the first imperial palace, hosting 25 Ottoman sultans. The royal family resided in a special section known as the Harem. Since the 19th century, the palace has been used as a museum.
GRAND BAZAAR : A historic commercial center with thousands of shops and 25 gates, the Grand Bazaar has long been essential for both traders and locals. It serves as a bridge between past and present, carrying the rich traditions of trade and commerce. Today, visitors can find carpets, souvenirs, jewelry, traditional Turkish coffee, and a variety of delicious Turkish delights.