Istanbul in Depth: Two-Day Package
-
Port
Istanbul, Turkey
-
Activity Level
Strenuous
-
Excursion Type
All
-
Wheelchair Accessible
No
-
Starting At
$399
-
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
-
Duration
Approximately 13½ Hours
-
Meals Included
Meals not included
Get to know the city of Istanbul from top to bottom over a period of two days.
Visit the ancient Hippodrome — a pretty plaza that was once a Roman horse racetrack.
The Mosque of Sultan Ahmed I, also known as the Blue Mosque, is renowned for its architectural harmony, proportion and elegance. Oddly, it is the only original mosque in the world with six minarets and is celebrated and named for the blue Iznik tiles that line its interior.
The Hagia Sophia Museum began life as a church in AD 360 under Roman Emperor Constantine. Later, it became a mosque. Today, it is a magnificent museum, and its gilded interior is quite breathtaking.
Don't miss Topkapi Palace — a great walled complex hugging the shores of the Bosphorus Strait and the Golden Horn. It was once the residence of the Ottoman sultans and is remarkably intact.
The Basilica Cistern is the largest and most magnificent covered cistern in Istanbul. Check out its many columns plundered from pagan temples when the Roman Empire converted to Christianity.
A boat trip on the Bosporus Strait allows you to cruise along the shoreline of this narrow waterway. It offers fascinating views of the Dolmabahçe Palace, the Beylerbeyi Palace and the few remaining towers of the Anadolu Hisar. You can see the city's connection to the Black Sea from here.
The tastes of Istanbul unravel at the Spice Bazaar, where every spice under the sun, and then some, is sold or bartered.
Finally, you will stop at one of the most colorful sites in the ancient city — the Grand Bazaar. Household items of virtually every description, carpets, clothing, and artworks are sold here, along with authentic, fabulous Turkish Delight and heavenly baklava.
Notes:
The covered section of the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays. Some venues may be closed on holidays; the tour operator reserves the right to substitute other venues. During Ramadan, the Blue Mosque visit may be replaced by another historical mosque. Modest attire is required during mosque visits; knees, shoulders, and midriffs must be covered, and women must cover their head with a scarf, provided by the Blue Mosque. You must remove your shoes at one or more location(s). Shoe bags are provided. Terrain includes even and uneven surfaces, cobblestones, inclines, and many steps. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Mobility devices (wheelchairs, walkers, scooters, etc) cannot be accommodated on the transportation. The Gallery section is not included at St Sophia. Expect a delay to enter the Blue Mosque; this may take longer than expected. Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience. Tour requires considerable walking. Traffic can be unpredictable; your patience is greatly appreciated if a delay extends the tour duration. A snack will be provided during a carpet presentation along with Turkish apple tea. Some sections in the Topkapi Palace are undergoing renovation and may be closed to the public. The boat trip operates weather permitting. The boat is a basic ferry. Istanbul's foremost attractions undergo continuous restoration; certain views may be obscured without advance notice.