Tour Details
Blue Mosque: Enter the stunning Blue Mosque and marvel at its incredible architecture, beautifully embellished with intricate Iznik tiles. Your knowledgeable guide will regale you with fascinating tales about Istanbul's Byzantine and Ottoman past, along with insights into Islam and the city's lively history.
Basilica Cistern: Skip the ticket lines and discover the hidden treasures beneath Istanbul's streets at the Basilica Cistern. Stroll through this ancient subterranean reservoir, where you can admire its breathtaking design and the intriguing Medusa heads from Greek mythology.
Explore Istanbul's Old City: Immerse yourself in the rich history of Istanbul's Old City. Visit the Million Stone, the legendary starting point of the Byzantine Empire, and explore the Hippodrome, which was once the bustling heart of social and athletic activities in Constantinople.
Hagia Sophia: Be captivated by the remarkable exterior of Hagia Sophia, a landmark steeped in over 2,000 years of history. Before wrapping up the tour, you’ll receive skip-the-line tickets and an audio guide, allowing you to explore the interior of this renowned site at your own pace.
Conclude your tour with the option to leisurely explore Hagia Sophia, utilizing the audio guide to uncover the profound history and significance of this iconic monument.
- Time Travel: Discover the hidden treasures of Istanbul's famous landmarks.
- Historical Heritage: Experience the rich history of the city and the beauty of Islam at the Blue Mosque.
- Quick Entry: Enjoy fast access to the Basilica Cistern and see the stunning Medusa heads.
- Explore at Your Own Pace: Visit Hagia Sophia freely, using an informative audio guide to enhance your experience.
- Architectural Marvels: Be amazed by the incredible buildings that tell the story of Istanbul's vibrant history.
Essential Travel Tips: Information for Your Trip
- Guided Visits: Currently, guides are not allowed inside Hagia Sophia, but they will share historical insights from outside the monument. Afterward, you can enter with your ticket and utilize the included audio guide app.
- Skip the Lines: Your ticket provides the advantage of bypassing the lines at both Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern; however, you will still need to go through security checks. During peak tourist season, security lines at Hagia Sophia may take up to 60 minutes, while at the Basilica Cistern, they can take up to 30 minutes.
- Ticket Access: The Hagia Sophia ticket grants entry to the Visiting Area and the Upper Gallery, but it does not include access to the prayer area.
- Dress Code: Modest attire is required, with knees covered. For visitors wearing shorts, body covers are available for purchase at 100 TRY
What’s Included
- English-Speaking Guide: Benefit from the expertise of a knowledgeable guide.
- Visit to the Blue Mosque: Explore one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks.
- Fast-Track Entry to the Basilica Cistern: Enjoy skip-the-line access to avoid long waits.
- Tour of the Basilica Cistern: Discover the fascinating history and stunning architecture of this underground marvel.
- Highlights of the Old City: Experience the key attractions in Istanbul's historic center.
- Skip-the-Line Ticket for Hagia Sophia: Gain priority access to this renowned site.
- Audio Guide for Hagia Sophia: Enhance your visit with informative insights through the audio guide app.
What’s Not Included
- Skip-the-Line Entry to the Blue Mosque: Note that this tour does not provide fast-track access to the Blue Mosque.
- Scarf and Body Cover: Items such as scarves and body covers for the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are not included.
Tour Days and Times
- Monday, Wednesday, Thursday: Tours available at 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM.
- Tuesday: Tour at 10:00 AM.
- Friday: Tour at 1:00 PM.
Meeting Location
- Kick off your adventure in the heart of Istanbul’s Old City, right in front of the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts at Sultanahmet Hippodrome Square. Your guide will be there to welcome you and lead you through an unforgettable sightseeing experience.