DAILY TOURS IN ISTANBUL

This comprehensive sightseeing tour of Istanbul provides the perfect introduction to the fabled city that spans Asia and Europe. On this one day sightseeing tour you will see how old meets new when you visit Istanbul's four "must-see" historic sites.Formally called Constantinople, Istanbul was the capital of the Roman Empire and Europe's wealthiest metropolis, and is now the largest city in Turkey.

Blue Mosque: One of the most famous monuments in both the Turkish and Islamic worlds, the Sultan Ahmet Mosque (also known as the Blue Mosque) is a superb creation in the classical Ottoman style. The mosque has six towering minarets and 260 windows illuminating its vast main chamber, which is decorated with more than 20,000 Iznik tiles.

Hagia Sophia: Now a museum, Hagia Sophia was built in the 6th century by the Emperor Justinian, and was one of the largest basilicas in the Christian world. After the Ottoman conquest, it was converted to a mosque and is today one of the most magnificent museums in the world. Take a moment to linger here to admire the fine Byzantine mosaics. (closed on Monday)

Topkapi Palace: The largest and oldest palace in the world, Topkapi is the crown jewel of the Ottoman Empire. With its harem (additional cost), treasury and exotic buildings overlooking the Golden Horn, your visit to Topkapi promises to be a truly fascinating experience. (closed on Tuesday)
 

The Hippodrome: The former center of sportive and political activities of Constantinople. During the visit, you will be able to seethe obelisk from Egypt, Serpentine column from Delphi and Fountain of Willhem II

Grand Bazaar:In operation since the 14th century, the Grand Bazaar is one of the world's largest covered markets, with 58 streets and over 4,000 shops. The bazaar is specially known for its jewelry, leather, pottery, spices and carpets. (closed on Sunday additional time will be spent at the other locations)

Tour Highlights

• Full-day eight-hour tour of Istanbul and its four main attractions

• Superb Blue Mosque

• Historic Hagia Sophia and its Byzantine mosaics

• Ottoman architecture and museums of Topkapi Palace

• Shopping in the Grand Bazaar

• Lunch included

• English-speaking guide

• Pickup and drop off from central Istanbul hotels

Departs: Daily, except Tuesday Departure Point: Tour departs from centrally located Istanbul hotels

Port Pickup:
For passengers arriving / departing Istanbul by cruise ship, a pick up is available from Istanbul port. If you wish to be picked up at Istanbul port you must advise the cruise line, ship name, docking and departure time in the Special Requirements box, at time of booking. Please allow 30 minutes from cruise arrival time to disembark and meet the tour. Please note, you may be picked up from the cruise port and dropped off at a city hotel or vice versa. Departure Time: 9:00am Duration: 8 hours (approx.) Return details: Returns to original departure point at approximately 5:00pm

Additional Information

Inclusions:

• Lunch
• Entrance fees
• Hotel pickup and drop off
• Transport by air-conditioned coach

Exclusions:

• Gratuities (optional)
• Food and drinks, unless specified

Additional Info:

• Confirmation will be received at time of booking

• Not recommended for child aged 4 and under

• Children 12 years and under must be accompanied by an adult

• In the event of any museum closures, an alternative similar museum will be visited