Old City Tour
This is a full day walking tour schedule in the old town where is now known as Sultanahmet area. This place is buzzing with history! Many of the historical sites are located in Sultanahmet making it easy to walk around and see all within a day. There is so much to see, hear, eat, buy, take in...
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:
*Blue Mosque: one of the most popular mosques of the city that was built in 1616, still active and popular with its original tiles.
*Hippodrome: the center of the sportive events such as chariot races, athletics and political activities of the old city. Today it’s still possible to see the Obelisk of Theodosius, Serpent Column, German Fountain, Constantin Obelisk decorating the Hippodrome.
*Hagia Sophia: it was constructed by the Byzantines between 532-537 A.D. and was the biggest church of the Byzantine Empire. When Constantinople fell to the Ottoman Empire, it was converted into a mosque. ıt as used as a museum between 1935-2020. It has been converted into a mosque one more time and now the non-muslim tourists are not allowed to visit the 1st floor(naos part), if they want to visit the upper gallery section, they have to buy ticket (25 euros p/p).However, some tourists feel that it is not worth paying this amount just to see the upper gallery, so we often skip Hagia Sophia and visit another place instead.But it is possible to see this building and its architecture from the outside; we pass by it.
*Basilica Cistern: When tourists do not wish to visit Hagia Sophia, we usually visit this cistern instead. Being built in the same period and showcasing features of Byzantine engineering and architecture, it is well worth a visit.This is an amazing underground reservoir with a haunting, mysterious atmosphere built by the Byzantines in 532 A.D. used to store water for the Great Palace and other buildings. Its roof is supported by 336 columns arranged in 12 rows.
*Topkapi Palace: this extraordinary and mystic palace was the residence of the Ottoman Sultans built in 1460ies and was the center of the Ottoman might for about 400 years.It is a typical example of Ottoman architecture and the rooms exhibit rich collections. The palace gives you a great view across the Bosphorus.
*Grand Bazaar: it was the largest covered market of the world built by the Ottomans in this city in 1460ies with more than 66 streets and 4000 shops where you can find various souvenirs, clothes, Turkish delights, species, nuts, dried fruits, traditional kaftans, high-quality scarves, shawls, and pashminas, antiques, jewellery etc. in an authentic oriental atmosphere. Haggling is common, most vendors will let you taste or smell products, especially spices, tea, and nuts.
***PLEASE NOTE:
-Depending on the location of the hotel, I usually meet my guests at the hotel lobby at around 08.30-09.00 am.
- I only offer private tours. When I guide you, no one else will be added to the group.
-This tour excludes; Lunch, Entrance fees, Public transportation fees if needed, Personal needs.
-The Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays.
-The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.
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