St Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome Guided Tour

• Visit the fantastic Blue Mosque and admire its minarets and rich Iznik tiles
• Explore the Hagia Sophia, one of the greatest architectural creations in the world
• Walk in the footsteps of gladiators in the hippodrome.
• Tour a historical palace with a knowledgeable local guide

• Professional Licensed tour guide
• Service charges and taxes

• Hotel Transfers
• Transport to the meeting point
• Food and drink
• Tips and gratuities

Due to long lines, entry into Hagia Sophia is not guaranteed. Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are functioning mosques and could be closed last minute without notice. Women must carry a headscarf. Child policy: free of charge for children aged 0-2; regular price for children 3 years old or older.

Take a tour of History Istanbul and explore it from the perspective of the Byzantine /Ottoman Empire. See ruins of Byzantine churches, the site of former Roman chariot races, and the magical minarets of the Imperial Mosque (Blue Mosque). Visit the Hippodrome, location for thrilling chariot races in the days of the Roman Empire. The track is now some 6.6 feet (2 meters) below ground, but has been marked on the paving of Sultan Ahmet Square. You will see the surviving obelisks, as well as the Serpentine Column from Delphi, and the Byzantine German Fountain of Wilhelm II. Continue to Hagia Sophia, also known as The Church of Holy Wisdom. Undoubtedly one of the greatest architectural creations in the world, the temple was so richly decorated that Justinian proclaimed, Solomon, I have surpassed you!" Your guide is an expert on Byzantine history, art, and architecture, and will describe important moments from the empires history as you continue to the iconic Blue Mosque. Named for its stunning decoration of Iznik tiles, you will also admire its slender minarets

Istanbul Cultural Walking Tour

Discover the treasures of Turkey with this Istanbul city highlights walking tour, where history, architecture, and culture converge in the heart of the old city. You’ll stroll through Sultanahmet Square, tracing the footsteps of gladiators at the Hippodrome and admiring obelisks, the Serpentine Column, and the German Fountain. Your expert local guide will illuminate the stories behind Hagia Sophia, once a Byzantine cathedral and now an iconic museum, and the Blue Mosque, with its elegant minarets and Iznik tiles. This guided tour allows you to appreciate the scale and artistry of these monuments up close, and your guide will provide fascinating context on Byzantine and Ottoman civilizations, the evolution of Roman and Greek influences in the city, and the cultural significance of Sultanahmet's bustling historical core, making this experience both informative and engaging.

Tips for a Comfortable Visit

To make the most of your Turkey cultural tours experience, consider the following:

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking over cobblestones
• Carry a light scarf or shawl for mosque entrances
• Bring water and stay hydrated, especially in summer
• Check opening hours as Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque may close unexpectedly
• Keep a camera handy for stunning architecture shots
• Consider visiting early morning for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures

With these tips, your tour will be smoother and more enjoyable.

More Facts About This Experience

The Istanbul Old City has inspired filmmakers and travelers alike. Scenes from From Russia with Love and Skyfall capture the grandeur of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Celebrity visitors, including Orlando Bloom, have been spotted exploring Sultanahmet. The Hippodrome, site of ancient Roman chariot races, now hosts tourists who marvel at surviving monuments like the Serpentine Column. As you walk past Hagia Sophia's magnificent dome or the Blue Mosque's ornate tiles, your guide may recount historical anecdotes, connecting the past to contemporary culture, creating an immersive narrative that blends cinematic history, architectural marvels, and the lively essence of modern Istanbul.

Complementary Experiences in Istanbul

Extend your cultural exploration with an Afternoon Bosphorus Yacht Cruise, offering scenic views and a stopover on the Asian side, perfect for capturing Istanbul's skyline from the water. For a hands-on artistic experience, the Traditional Quartz Ceramic Draw and Coloring Class allows you to craft a unique souvenir inspired by Ottoman patterns. These tours complement your walking tour by offering a mix of maritime scenery and creative cultural immersion, enhancing your understanding of Istanbul's heritage and daily life.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour

This guided tour is ideal for solo travelers eager to learn, couples seeking an enriching outing, families with older children interested in history, and groups of friends exploring Istanbul's cultural and architectural gems. History enthusiasts, art lovers, and anyone curious about Byzantine and Ottoman civilizations will find this tour informative, engaging, and perfectly paced for a memorable city adventure.