Istanbul: Full-Day City Highlights Tour with Lunch

Discover the most iconic landmarks of Istanbul, including Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Hippodrome and Grand Bazaar on this full-day tour. You will explore in a small group with a knowledgeable guide and enjoy a personalized experience.

Explore some of Istanbul's top sights with a local guide on this tour, including the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Sultanahmet Square, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar. Enjoy included hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as skip-the-line entry.

Your day begins with a hotel pickup, followed by a comfortable ride in an air-conditioned vehicle to visit Istanbul's most iconic landmarks. First, head to the Hagia Sophia, meaning "Divine Wisdom." The Hagia Sophia was used as a church for 916 years and as a mosque for 481 years.

Next, visit Topkapi Palace, once the imperial residence of the Sultan and the center of the Ottoman government. In 1924, it was converted into a museum, and today it's famous for its harem, royal treasury, and holy relics sections.

Then, head to the Hippodrome of Constantinople (Sultanahmet Square), which was built by Roman Emperor Septimius Severus in 203 A.D. In ancient times, this square was the center of public life, hosting up to 100,000 spectators. Today, the Hippodrome features the Egyptian Obelisk (Dikilitaş), the Serpentine Column (Burma Sütun), the Constantine Column, and the German Fountain.

Next, visit the Blue Mosque, built by Ottoman Sultan Ahmed I in 1616, located opposite the Hagia Sophia. The mosque is renowned for its six minarets, its grand dome, and the beautiful blue tiles that decorate the interior walls.

Finally, explore the Grand Bazaar. With 18 entrances and over 4,000 shops, it’s one of the largest and most famous bazaars in the world. Wander through its unique shops and experience the lively atmosphere of this historic market.

The tour concludes in the Grand Bazaar.