About this experience
If you have more than a 5-hour layover between flights, why not make good use of it? Instead of waiting in the lounge, a great alternative would be to see the oldest city in the world and its main attractions. You will be met at the airport and taken to the Old City, where I will show you Istanbul - you will visit the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, the main square, and the Basilica Cistern.
What to expect
Blue Mosque, or Sultanahmet Mosque
One of the city's symbols, a specimen of Islamic and world culture, built between 1609-1616. The beauty of this building's architecture will not leave anyone indifferent.
Hagia Sophia Mosque, or Ayasofya
A world-famous monument of Byzantine architecture, a symbol of the golden age, also called the eighth wonder of the world. The mosque was built between 532-537.
Hippodrome of Constantinople
The main square of Istanbul, located in the historical center of the city. Its construction was started by the Roman Emperor Septimius Severus in 203, when the city was still called Byzantium.
Basilica Cistern
One of the largest and best-preserved ancient underground water reservoirs in Constantinople. The construction of the cistern was started by the Greeks during the reign of Emperor Constantine I (306-337) and completed in 532 under Emperor Justinian. Here, scenes from movies like "Inferno," "James Bond," and others were filmed.
Organizational details
- Additional expenses: entrance tickets to the Basilica Cistern - 800 lira/person, to Hagia Sophia - 850 lira/person.
- The transfer staff will meet you at the airport and take you to the Old City. The tour then proceeds on foot.
- The duration of the walking tour is 3 hours. One-way transfer takes 1 hour.
- The trip is made in a comfortable car.
- The route can be adjusted upon request.
Important information about locations
- The Blue Mosque closes at 17:45.
- Women need to have a scarf with them to visit Hagia Sophia.
