Istanbul Deluxe Part II
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Port
Istanbul, Turkey
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Activity Level
Strenuous
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Excursion Type
Local Sightseeing,All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$259.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 8 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
After a short panoramic drive through the Old Town of Istanbul, you will arrive at the ancient Hippodrome -- once the largest chariot racetrack of the Roman-Byzantine Empire.
It is a short walk to the Blue Mosque. This incredible monument to Islam was completed in 1616 and is a triumph of harmony, proportion, and elegance. The blue Iznik tiles covering the walls give the mosque its name.
Nearby is the Topkapi Palace, the official residence of the Ottoman Sultans. The palace consists of courts, pavilions, mosques, fountains, and a rich Treasury section. The Harem was the home of the sultan and is an exceptional insight into how the rulers lived. Enjoy some free time here to browse on your own.
Stop for a spectacular lunch at one of the authentic Ottoman restaurants located in the Old Town. You will taste delicious Turkish cuisine lovingly prepared by the chef.
Step inside the famous St Sophia Church, built during Emperor Justinian's reign in AD 537. St Sophia's dome was then the largest in the world, and it remained the greatest church in Christendom for centuries. After several conquests and pillages, the building was converted into a mosque but fell into disrepair as the centuries passed. Its magnificent mosaics were uncovered in the 1900s and the church was later dedicated as a Byzantine-Ottoman Museum.
At the end of your tour, you will return to the port, stopping en route for a carpet demonstration and at the Grand Bazaar for some shopping.
Notes:
Modest attire is required; knees, shoulders and midriffs must be covered, and women must cover their head with a scarf, which will be provided by Blue Mosque. You must remove your shoes at one the mosque. Shoe bags are provided. Expect dense traffic conditions in Istanbul. Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience. All tours in the Old Town require considerable walking, as it is closed to traffic. The Grand Bazaar is during Ramadan; shopping will take place in stores just outside the Grand Bazaar. Tour does not operate on Fridays or holidays.