Hippodrome and Blue Mosque Guided Tour

Discover the captivating history of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks on the Hippodrome and Blue Mosque Guided Tour. Step into the magnificent Blue Mosque, marveling at its stunning interior decorated with intricate Iznik tiles. Uncover the rich past of the ancient Hippodrome, where chariot races and public events once drew throngs of spectators. With an expert guide leading the way, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of these remarkable sites and their significance in the Ottoman era. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an immersive cultural experience, this tour promises to unveil the fascinating stories that lie within these remarkable landmarks.

Good To Know

• The guided tour provides an exploration of the Blue Mosque and Hippodrome, highlighting their cultural significance and architectural wonders.
• Experienced guides offer insights into the Ottoman Empire’s influence on these landmarks.
• The tour includes entry fees and access to historical and cultural information.
• The meeting point is at the Hippodrome, and the tour is accessible via public transportation.
• The tour experience features a mid-sized group size and a focus on the architectural and historical aspects of the sites.

Overview of the Tour

This tour offers a guided exploration of two iconic landmarks from the Ottoman Classical Era – the Blue Mosque and the Hippodrome.

Known for its six minarets, the Blue Mosque holds immense cultural significance.

Accompanied by an experienced guide, the tour begins at the historic Hippodrome, where visitors can learn about the Ottoman Empire’s influence on modern Turkey.

This mid-sized group tour fosters interaction with fellow travelers, providing an opportunity to gain in-depth insights into these architectural and historical wonders.

Highlights of the Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, stands as a remarkable architectural marvel from the Ottoman Classical Era. Its six slender minarets and grand scale are immediately striking, showcasing the skill and ambition of its designers.

Notable features include:

• The mosque’s stunning interior, adorned with thousands of blue Iznik tiles that give the building its iconic name.
• Elaborate calligraphic panels and ornate chandeliers that contribute to the mosque’s serene yet awe-inspiring atmosphere.
• The impressive central dome, which rises 167 feet above the ground and is surrounded by smaller domes, creating a harmonious and visually captivating structure.

Learning About the Hippodrome

Alongside the renowned Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome of Constantinople holds immense historical significance. Once the center of Byzantine public life, this ancient stadium hosted chariot races, religious ceremonies, and political events that shaped the city’s rich heritage.

Key Facts About the Hippodrome
Originally built in the 3rd century AD	Extensive reconstruction during the Ottoman era	Remained an important public square until the 19th century
Measuring 450 meters long and 130 meters wide	Hosted the infamous Nika Revolt in 532 AD	Venue for sultans’ grand parades and celebrations
Decorated with ancient monuments and statues	Destroyed by multiple fires and earthquakes over the centuries	Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site

What’s Included in the Experience

One key component of the Hippodrome and Blue Mosque tour is that it covers all necessary fees and taxes, ensuring a hassle-free experience for participants.

The tour price includes:

• Entry to both the iconic Blue Mosque and the historic Hippodrome.
• Professional guide services throughout the experience.
• Access to valuable historical and cultural insights along the way.
• No hidden costs, providing transparency and peace of mind for travelers.

With these inclusions, the Hippodrome and Blue Mosque tour offers a comprehensive and convenient way for visitors to explore these renowned Ottoman-era landmarks and enjoy the rich heritage of Istanbul.

Meeting Point and Pickup Details

At the Hippodrome of Constantinople, at the address Binbirdirek, At Meydanı Cd No:53 D:68, 34122 Fatih/Istanbul, Türkiye, travelers will find the meeting point for the Hippodrome and Blue Mosque tour.

The guide will be easy to identify, as they’ll be holding a GULLIVER TOURS flag. The tour begins promptly at 9:00 am, so punctuality is advised.

Once the tour concludes, you will return to the original meeting location. Public transportation is accessible, making the tour convenient for travelers.

The tour is stroller-friendly but not wheelchair accessible, with a maximum of 50 travelers for a more intimate experience.

What to Expect During the Tour

Travelers receive confirmation upon booking, ensuring their participation in the Hippodrome and Blue Mosque tour.

This tour is conveniently accessible by public transportation. While the environment is stroller-friendly, it isn’t wheelchair accessible.

The group size is capped at a maximum of 50 travelers, providing a more intimate experience. Operated by Gulliver Tours, the tour provides quality service and access to historical and cultural insights throughout the experience.

• Tour accessible via public transportation
• Stroller-friendly environment, not wheelchair accessible
• Maximum group size of 50 travelers for an intimate experience

Cancellation Policy and Reviews

Cancellation of the Hippodrome and Blue Mosque tour is allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Reviews for the tour are mixed, with an overall rating of 4.0 out of 10 reviews. Some travelers have reported issues with guide no-shows and communication failures, but others have provided positive feedback on the guide’s knowledge despite some construction-related challenges.

Viator’s Help Centre is available for any additional questions or support.

Getting to the Meeting Location

The tour meeting point is located at the Hippodrome of Constantinople, specifically at the address Binbirdirek, At Meydanı Cd No:53 D:68, 34122 Fatih/Istanbul, Türkiye.

The guide leading the tour will be easily identifiable by the GULLIVER TOURS flag. The tour starts promptly at 9:00 am, and the end point returns to the original meeting location.

To get to the meeting point, travelers can:

• Take public transportation, as the location is accessible via public transit.
• Drive and park nearby, although parking options may be limited.
• Walk to the Hippodrome if staying in the vicinity of the Old City.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Blue Mosque?

Photography is generally allowed inside the Blue Mosque, but visitors should be mindful of worshippers and avoid disrupting the sacred space. Proper attire and respectful behavior are expected when visiting this iconic religious site.

What Is the Dress Code for Entering the Blue Mosque?

The Blue Mosque has a modest dress code. Visitors must cover their arms, legs, and head. Loose, long pants and long sleeves are required. Headscarves are provided for women who don’t have their own. Proper attire ensures entrance and respect for the holy site.

Can We Explore the Blue Mosque and Hippodrome on Our Own?

Visitors can explore the Blue Mosque and Hippodrome on their own. However, a guided tour provides valuable insights and cultural context that may be missed without an experienced guide. Self-guided exploration is possible but recommended for a more enriching experience.

Are Audio Headsets Provided During the Guided Tour?

The guided tour doesn’t mention providing audio headsets. It’s likely you will need to rely on the guide’s live commentary during the tour of the Blue Mosque and Hippodrome.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no information provided about extending the tour duration. The tour details don’t mention any option to lengthen the experience beyond the standard offering. Travelers would need to inquire with the tour operator about possible extensions.

Sum Up

The Hippodrome and Blue Mosque Guided Tour offers a captivating exploration of Istanbul’s rich history. Visitors can marvel at the architectural splendor of the Blue Mosque, uncover the significance of the ancient Hippodrome, and gain insightful commentary from an experienced guide. This immersive experience provides a comprehensive introduction to two of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, making it an essential part of any visit to this vibrant city.