Full Day Old City Tour of Istanbul

Discover the rich tapestry of Istanbul’s imperial past as you explore the landmarks that shaped the course of empires. This immersive full-day guided tour through Sultanahmet, the historical heart of the city, reveals the cultural, architectural, and political legacy of both Byzantium and the Ottoman Empire.

Hagia Sophia

Your day begins at the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a timeless symbol of architectural innovation and spiritual grandeur. Built in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian, it was the world’s largest cathedral for nearly a millennium.

Converted into a mosque after the conquest of Constantinople in 1453 and now functioning as a mosque-museum hybrid, Hagia Sophia captivates with its massive dome, golden mosaics, and imperial portraits of emperors, empresses, and the Virgin and Child.

Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)

Next, visit the iconic Blue Mosque, one of the finest examples of classical Ottoman architecture. Commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I and designed by a student of the great architect Sinan, it is the only mosque in Turkey with six minarets. Its interior, adorned with over 20,000 blue Iznik tiles, creates an atmosphere of serene grandeur. (Closed to visitors on Friday mornings during prayers.)

Hippodrome of Constantinople

Walk through the ancient Hippodrome, the political and social center of Byzantium. Once a vast arena for chariot races and imperial ceremonies, today it features historic monuments such as:
• The Egyptian Obelisk
• The Serpent Column from Delphi
• The German Fountain, a gift from Kaiser Wilhelm II

Grand Bazaar

Explore the vibrant and historic Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. With over 4,000 shops, the bazaar is a treasure trove of Turkish carpets, silks, ceramics, spices, leather goods, and antique jewelry — a true Ottoman-style shopping experience.

Topkapi Palace

After lunch, continue to the majestic Topkapi Palace, the royal residence of Ottoman sultans from the 15th to 19th centuries. Tour the Imperial Treasury, home to dazzling jewels including the legendary Spoonmaker’s Diamond, and explore the Baghdad Kiosk and Imperial Armory, showcasing centuries of Ottoman craftsmanship and power.

Admire one of the world’s best collections of Chinese celadon ceramics, some believed to detect poison, and enjoy a peaceful walk through courtyards shaded by ancient trees where sultans once strolled.

Hagia Irene Church

Visit Hagia Irene, a rare Byzantine church that was never converted into a mosque. Built in the 4th century, it once served as an arsenal and now retains its raw interior and spiritual ambiance. It is considered the first church ever constructed in Constantinople.

Gulhane Park

End your day with a relaxing stroll through Gulhane Park, the former outer gardens of the Topkapı Palace. Here, the historic Edict of Gulhane was proclaimed in 1839, laying the foundation for Ottoman modernization. Once home to the city zoo, the park is now a peaceful green space filled with history and charm.