Istanbul Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque & Basilica Cistern Tour
Description
Embark on a captivating exploration of Istanbul’s mosques and palaces, where you will uncover the brilliance of Ottoman architectural wonders, including the renowned Hagia Sophia and the majestic Topkapi Palace.
Tour Details
We will commence our journey at the designated hour, gathering at Dsign Café. This is where our expedition through the mosques and palaces of Istanbul begins, unveiling the intriguing aspects of Ottoman architecture and the city's noteworthy landmarks.
The first landmark we will visit is the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, often referred to as the Blue Mosque. You might be intrigued to learn that its name derives from the stunning blue mosaics that adorn its façade.
Following this, a leisurely stroll through the Sultanahmet District will provide insights into the area’s rich history. During our exploration, we will encounter the famous Hagia Sophia. Erected in the 6th century, this structure has transitioned through various roles, serving as a basilica, Orthodox church, and mosque.
Currently, Hagia Sophia stands as an exquisite museum showcasing the confluence of religions that have thrived together in Turkey over the ages, captivating visitors with its stunning beauty. We will marvel at the grand interior design, highlighted by its grand central dome, while the exterior features striking semi-domes and impressive minarets.
After appreciating this sacred monument, you will have a 30-minute intermission to savor lunch at a nearby eatery.
Following our lunch break, we will venture into the Basilica Cistern, charmingly nicknamed the Submerged Palace.
Ultimately, after approximately 3.5 hours, our journey through Istanbul’s mosques and palaces will conclude in the Sultanahmet District. Görü?ürüz!
What's included
- English–speaking guide
- Admission to the Hagia Sophia
- Admission to the Basilica Cistern
- A headset to hear the guide better
Cancellation policy
Cancellazione gratuita fino a 24 ore prima (local time)
Accessibility
Only some areas are accessible.
Important information
On the day of the activity, you'll meet your guide in front of Dsign Café, located directly on the Hippodrome, next to the Egyptian Obelisk. The guide will be holding a white MegaPass flag.
Traffic in Istanbul can be very heavy in the morning, so we recommend that you time your departure from your accommodation well in advance.
Dress Code
You cannot enter sacred sites with clothes that expose the shoulders, armpits, back, or knees. We recommend that you bring a scarf/sweater to cover yourself or clothing that conforms to the dress code.
To enter the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia, women must cover their hair, shoulders, and knees, and men must cover their shoulders and knees. Scarves (1EUR) and body covers (3EUR) are available at the entrance.
Queue Info
Please note that you'll have to wait in line to visit the monuments on this tour. All three attractions have airport-style security checks, which may take up to 45 minutes during busy periods.
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