Age
0+
Group size
1-4
Transport
On foot
Language
English
Duration
3 hours 30 minutes
About this experience
Istanbul will captivate you with a blend of Byzantine, Ottoman, and modern cultures, stunning panoramas, and rich history. I will tell you about the rise and fall of Constantinople, the Bosphorus, and Turkish mentality. I will also help you understand how the locals live today: what they eat and drink, how they spend their free time, and which neighborhoods they frequent.
What to Expect
Highlights of Istanbul
You will see the top places of the city. The tour program includes:
- Hagia Sophia - you will hear the history of Istanbul's 'calling card' and uncover the reasons for its recent transformation from an Orthodox cathedral to a mosque. You will decipher the elements of Byzantine architecture and understand how Hagia Sophia manages to combine grace with grand dimensions.
- Topkapi Palace - the main palace of Istanbul. You will stroll through the first courtyard, where celebrations in honor of the Sultan's victories took place, and the guide will tell you about the history of the Ottoman Empire.
- Basilica Cistern - a restored water reservoir that since the 6th century has provided the population with a water supply in case of a blockade or drought. Once abandoned, now a museum; you will visit this popular location and be impressed by the architecture of the ancient water reservoir.
- Blue Mosque - 6 tall beautiful minarets and a large central dome we will see from afar. Passing through the arched courtyard, we will admire the magnificent square. Inside the mosque, we will examine the blue tiles, marble and ceramic handcrafted mosaics, inscriptions on the domes, and picturesque patterns.
- Hippodrome - the main square of Istanbul. Here you will see ancient columns, the Egyptian obelisk, and a luxurious fountain, given to the Turkish Sultan by the German Chancellor.
Organizational Details
- Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays, mosques close daily from 12:15 to 14:30
- Additional entrance tickets are paid separately: to the Basilica Cistern - 800 lira per person, to Hagia Sophia - 850 lira per person
- During the tour, we will only visit the first courtyard of Topkapi Palace, entrance is free
- Upon request, the tour can be extended by 1.5 hours to visit another part of Topkapi Palace and the harem. Additional cost - 50 euros per group + tickets (1500 lira/person)
- Upon request, I can conduct a tour for a group of more than 4 people, the cost and details can be clarified in a personal message
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