Istanbul Full Day Old City Tour

Istanbul, the ‘City on the Seven Hills,’ beckons travelers with its mesmerizing blend of ancient and modern wonders. Exploring the iconic Sultanahmet attractions, such as the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, in the comfort of a climate-controlled Mercedes Sprinter minivan is an experience like no other. With the guidance of knowledgeable professionals, visitors can explore the city’s rich history and cultural heritage, culminating in the bustling Grand Bazaar and the serene Hagia Irene Church. But the true allure of this tour lies in the opportunity to uncover the layers of Istanbul’s captivating past, leaving you eager to discover more.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best City Tours In Istanbul.

Key Points

• Explore the iconic landmarks of Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet district, including the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, and Topkapi Palace.
• Travel in comfort with an air-conditioned Mercedes Sprinter minivan accommodating up to 15 travelers.
• Benefit from the expertise of professional licensed tour guides who provide in-depth commentary and ensure a seamless experience.
• Enjoy the convenience of included public transport tickets and comprehensive insurance coverage for a worry-free journey.
• Experience the rich history and cultural heritage of the ‘City on the Seven Hills’ through visits to Topkapi Palace and the Hagia Sophia.

Exploring the City on Seven Hills

Istanbul, the City on the Seven Hills, offers visitors a captivating exploration of its rich history and architectural wonders.

With its strategic location between Europe and Asia, the city has long been a crossroads of civilizations, leaving an indelible mark on its iconic landmarks.

The seven hills, each with its own significant structure, provide a unique and visually stunning panorama.

From the majestic Topkapi Palace to the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, these monuments bear witness to Istanbul’s enduring legacy as a center of power, faith, and culture.

As you wander through the city’s winding streets, you’ll uncover layer upon layer of history, making each step a mesmerizing journey through time.

Key Sultanahmet Attractions in Istanbul

The Sultanahmet neighborhood in Istanbul houses some of the city’s most iconic attractions, including the magnificent Hippodrome, the captivating Blue Mosque, and the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia. Visitors can explore these remarkable sites on the Istanbul Full Day Old City Tour, where a professional guide provides insights into the rich history and cultural significance of each landmark.

Attraction	Description
Hippodrome	Ancient Roman chariot racing stadium
Blue Mosque	17th-century imperial mosque with stunning blue tiles
Hagia Sophia	Iconic Byzantine-era cathedral-turned-mosque
Grand Bazaar	Expansive historic marketplace with over 4,000 shops
Topkapi Palace	Former Ottoman imperial residence and palace
Hagia Irene	Byzantine-era church with impressive architecture

The tour also includes a visit to the Grand Bazaar, Topkapi Palace, and Hagia Irene church, offering a comprehensive exploration of Istanbul’s Sultanahmet district.

Air-conditioned Mercedes Sprinter Minivan

Participants on the Istanbul Full Day Old City Tour travel in the comfort of an air-conditioned Mercedes Sprinter minivan, providing a convenient and climate-controlled mode of transportation throughout the day.

This modern and spacious vehicle ensures a comfortable journey as the group navigates the bustling streets of Istanbul, moving efficiently between the key Sultanahmet attractions.

The Mercedes Sprinter’s air-conditioning system keeps the interior cool and comfortable, even during the warmer months.

With ample space for up to 15 travelers, the minivan offers a private and personalized touring experience.

This reliable and well-maintained vehicle provides a smooth and seamless way to explore the historical sights of Istanbul’s old city on this comprehensive day tour.

Professional Licensed Tour Guide Services

Accompanying the group throughout the Istanbul Full Day Old City Tour is a professional licensed tour guide, providing expert commentary and insights to enhance the overall experience.

These knowledgeable guides lead the way, offering a deeper understanding of the city’s rich history and cultural significance as the group explores the key Sultanahmet attractions.

With their expertise, travelers gain valuable context and stories behind the iconic landmarks, such as the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia.

The guides ensure a seamless and informative journey, addressing questions, sharing local perspectives, and managing the logistics to maximize the time spent at each site.

Their guidance is essential for making the most of this immersive exploration of Istanbul’s storied past.

Public Transport and Insurance Included

Utilizing public transport is a convenient aspect of this Istanbul tour, as the package includes tram fare to navigate the city’s historic core.

Plus, travelers enjoy the protection of comprehensive insurance coverage throughout the day’s activities. This integrated approach ensures a seamless and worry-free experience.

The tour’s inclusions are:

• Tram tickets to access the Sultanahmet attractions
• Liability insurance to safeguard against unexpected incidents
• Accident coverage for peace of mind during the excursion
• Medical insurance in case of emergencies or illnesses
• Comprehensive protection for the duration of the guided tour

This thoughtful bundling of public transit and insurance elevates the overall value and convenience of the Istanbul Full Day Old City Tour.

Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia Visits

The tour’s comprehensive itinerary features visits to two of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks – the Topkapi Palace and the Hagia Sophia.

At Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans, visitors can marvel at the opulent architecture, ornate courtyards, and priceless treasures on display. The entrance fee of 1500 TRY can be paid to the guide for skip-the-line tickets.

Topkapi Palace	Hagia Sophia
Former residence of Ottoman sultans	Grand Byzantine cathedral, later a mosque
Ornate architecture and courtyards	Impressive domed interior
Priceless treasures on display	Entrance fee: 25 €, skip-the-line available
Entrance fee: 1500 TRY, skip-the-line available	Iconic landmark of Istanbul
Iconic landmark of Istanbul

The Hagia Sophia, a magnificent feat of Byzantine engineering, stands tall as one of Istanbul’s most recognizable landmarks. Visitors can explore the grand domed interior and learn about its rich history.

Grand Bazaar and Hagia Irene Church

After visiting the iconic Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia, the tour takes guests to explore the bustling Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest covered markets.

Here, they can wander through the maze of shops, bargaining for traditional Turkish crafts, spices, and textiles. The tour also includes a stop at the serene Hagia Irene Church, a former Byzantine cathedral that now serves as a museum, showcasing its well-preserved architecture and historical significance.

The Grand Bazaar offers an immersive shopping experience, with vendors selling:

• Intricate hand-woven rugs
• Vibrant Turkish ceramics
• Fragrant spices and teas
• Authentic Ottoman-style lamps
• Ornate jewelry and metalwork

Tour Details and Accessibility Information

This full-day tour accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers, providing a personalized experience. All tour confirmations are received at the time of booking.

The tour is wheelchair accessible and located near public transportation, making it convenient for most travelers. Infants must be seated on laps during the tour.

The tour covers the key Sultanahmet attractions in Istanbul, including the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, Topkapi Palace, and Hagia Irene church.

Travelers can opt to have the guide purchase skip-the-line tickets for the Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia, ensuring a seamless experience.

The tour is conducted in an air-conditioned Mercedes Sprinter minivan, providing a comfortable mode of transportation throughout the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Take Photos Inside the Historical Sites?

Visitors are generally allowed to take photos inside the historical sites, but flash photography may be prohibited to avoid damage to the artifacts. It’s best to check with site staff for any specific rules or restrictions.

Is There a Possibility to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, it’s possible to extend the tour duration. The tour operator typically offers flexible scheduling, allowing travelers to customize the itinerary and spend more time at the sites they’re most interested in. Additional fees may apply for extended tour time.

Can We Bring Our Own Snacks or Drinks on the Tour?

Travelers are generally allowed to bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure there are no restrictions or policies in place. Staying hydrated and having light refreshments can enhance the tour experience.

Are There Any Special Requirements for Children Participants?

Children are welcome on the tour, but must be accompanied by an adult. Infants are allowed but must sit on a parent’s lap. There are no special requirements, but parents should ensure their children are able to participate safely and comfortably.

Do We Need to Bring Our Own Audio Equipment for the Tour?

No, you don’t need to bring your own audio equipment. The tour includes a professional licensed guide who will provide audio equipment for participants to use throughout the tour, ensuring you can clearly hear the informative commentary.

Recap

This full-day Istanbul old city tour offers an immersive cultural experience. Travelers can explore iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace in a climate-controlled minivan with a knowledgeable guide.

Tram tickets and comprehensive insurance ensure a seamless and worry-free journey through Istanbul’s historic crossroads between Europe and Asia, culminating at the Grand Bazaar and serene Hagia Irene Church.