Combination of Istanbul Classics Tour and Ottoman Relics Tour
Highlights
* Hagia Sophia
* Blue Mosque
* Hippodrome
* Obelisk of Theodosius
* Grand Covered Bazaar
* Topkapi Palace
* Hagia Irene
included with
* Free pick up and drop off service from most of the city center hotels
* Muesum Entrance Fees
* Donations to the Mosques
* Lunch
* Round Trip Transfers from/to Central Hotels
* Guidance
* Transportation with A/C Vehicles
excluded by
* Drinks at lunch
* Optional Gratuities
Essential
Information
* Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia - visited from outside on Friday mornings until 13:00 because of noon-pray
* Topkapı Palace is closed on Tuesdays and the whole tour is replaced with Patriarchate at Fener, Church of Panagia of Blachernae, St. Savior in Chora, Anemas Dungeons and Tekfur Palace (from outside).
Itinerary
Tour of "Sultan Ahmet Center", the heart of the "Old City" from where the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires were ruled.
Hagia Sophia, the Church of the Divine Wisdom, one of the greatest marvels of architecture, constructed as a basilica in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian.
Blue Mosque, facing Hagia Sophia, famous with its blue İznik tiles and unique with 6 minarets, built in the name of Sultan Ahmet.
Hippodrome, center of sportive events (chariot races, athletics) and political activities of the old city. Serpentine Column, Obelisk of Theodosius and German Fountain of Wilhelm II are the monuments decorating the Hippodrome.
Grand Covered Bazaar, most attractive shopping center and the biggest "souk" in the world with nearly 4000 shops selling antiques, jewellery, gold, carpets, leatherware and souvenir. (Art demonstration of handmade Turkish carpets upon request)
Lunch at a Turkish Restaurant.
Topkapı Palace, residence of Ottoman Sultans exhibiting imperial treasury, sacred Islamic relics of Prophet Mohammed, kitchen, Chinese porcelain, weapons, calligraphy section etc. Live guide commentary is not allowed in special sections. (Harem is not included in the program)
The Hagia Irene located in the outer courtyard of Topkapı Palace is the oldest church of the Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantine). It was also the second largest church in Istanbul after Hagia Sophia. Hagia Irene, a typical Byzantine structure with its materials and architecture, was built on the site of an old temple in 330
Sultan Tombs, there are five tombs of Ottoman Sultans within the graveyard at Hagia sophia.
The ceramic panels are the most beautiful examples of the 16th century with purple, red, green and blue flower motives. Prince robes and a small piece from the Kaaba covers are displayed on the sarcophaguses.
