Tour Code:
Option-1
Type:
Culture, History, Shopping
Length:
4 Hours
Guide:
Licensed Guide
Languages:
English
TOUR ITINERARY
Istanbul Private Tour: Option 1
Your driver and licensed guide will meet you in front of Istanbul's port
passenger Terminal. You drive along the old city walls and under the ancient
Roman aqueduct on the way to St. Sophia (Haghia Sophia), the splendid Church of
Divine Wisdom built in the 4th century BC. St Sophia's dome was then the largest
in the world. After several conquests and pillages, the building was converted
into a mosque, but fell into disrepair as centuries passed. The brilliant
Byzantine mosaics were uncovered in the 1900s and the church now is a
breathtaking Byzantine-Ottoman museum.
Next you walk to the Hippodrome used for outdoor chariot races in Roman times.
Today it is lined with parks, obelisks and monuments. Next to the Hippodrome is
the famous Blue Mosque, named for its richly adorned interior of magnificent
Iznik tiles. Your guide will take you through the Blue Mosque and provide an
explanation of this Western leaning Muslim country. Please note that the Blue
Mosque is not wheelchair accessible.
Finally you are taken to the Grand Bazaar which houses more than 4,000 stalls
selling local goods. Or, if you prefer, you can request to visit the Egyptian
Spice Market instead.
Tour Breakdown:
1- Depart pier and drive to St. Sophia- 30 Minutes
2- Tour St. Sophia - 1 Hour
3- Walk to Hippodrome & Blue Mosque- 10 Minutes
4- Visit Hippodrome & Blue Mosque- 40 Minutes
5- Drive to Grand Bazaar - 10 Minutes
6- Enjoy Shopping in Grand Bazaar - 1 Hour
7- Return to pier - 20 Minutes
WHAT'S INCLUDED:
• Pick up and Drop off
• Transportation in non-smoking mini/midi bus with professional English speaking
guide and experienced driver.
Not Included:
•
Entrance fees
• Lunch |