Explore the captivating intersection of Byzantine and Ottoman history on this immersive Istanbul tour. Venture through iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, unraveling the intricate architectural details and cultural legacies of these two empires. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a well-rounded introduction to the city, this comprehensive itinerary promises to engage and enlighten. With convenient transportation, a delicious lunch, and knowledgeable guides, the stage is set for an unforgettable exploration of Istanbul’s most treasured relics. What lies beyond the city’s famous landmarks, however, may just surprise you.
Key Points
- The tour covers the architectural and cultural highlights of Istanbul, including the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Grand Covered Bazaar, and Topkapi Palace.
- The tour lasts 7 hours and includes air-conditioned transportation, museum entrance fees, lunch, and free pick-up service from centrally located Istanbul hotels.
- Visitors should note that the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays, and access to the Blue Mosque is limited on Fridays due to prayer schedules.
- The tour has an overall rating of 3.2 out of 5 based on 6 reviews, with some guests citing issues with the guide’s knowledge and transportation.
- The tour offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Details
This full-day tour explores the cultural, historical, and architectural treasures of the Ottoman and Byzantine empires in Istanbul, offering visitors an immersive experience through the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
The tour lasts 7 hours and can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance at no cost. Highlights include visiting the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome, the Grand Covered Bazaar, and Topkapi Palace.
The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, museum entrance fees, lunch, and free pick-up service from centrally located Istanbul hotels.
Visitors should note that the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays and the Blue Mosque visit is limited on Fridays due to noon prayer.
Highlights of the Tour
The tour’s highlights include visiting the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, a 6th century basilica that exemplifies Byzantine architectural grandeur.
Travelers will also behold the striking Blue Mosque, with its distinctive blue tiles and six minarets, as well as explore the Hippodrome, a historic center for sporting and political events.
Plus, the tour provides an opportunity to browse the bustling Grand Covered Bazaar, the world’s largest souk, and tour the opulent Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman Sultans.
These iconic sites offer an immersive experience into Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage, seamlessly blending the influences of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour comes with a range of inclusions to enhance the experience, such as air-conditioned transportation, all museum entrance fees, and a provided lunch. Hotel pick-up and drop-off services are also included for the convenience of participants.
The tour package includes:
- Air-conditioned transportation throughout the day
- Admission fees to all the major sites, including Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace
- A delicious lunch to refuel during the day
- Free shuttle pick-up service from centrally located hotels in Istanbul, available from 8:00 to 9:00 AM
While the inclusions are comprehensive, there are a few exclusions to note, such as the Grand Covered Bazaar being closed on Sundays, and limited access to the Blue Mosque during Friday prayers.
Important Information
Notably, the Grand Covered Bazaar is closed on Sundays, and visitors will instead explore a traditional shop during the tour.
Plus, access to the Blue Mosque is limited on Fridays due to the noon prayer schedule.
Conveniently, a free shuttle pick-up service is available from 8:00 to 9:00 AM for centrally located hotels in Istanbul.
Guests will have free time to explore the Grand Bazaar on their own, though it isn’t a guided portion of the tour.
The tour organizers have made accommodations to ensure visitors can fully experience the highlights despite occasional closures or access restrictions.
Travelers should plan accordingly and take advantage of the provided transportation and museum entrance inclusions.
Customer Ratings and Feedback
Customers have provided a fairly low overall rating of 3.2 out of 5 for this tour, based on 6 reviews. Feedback covers the guide, transportation, service, and overall organization of the experience.
Some guests felt the guide lacked adequate knowledge and struggled to provide a coherent narrative about the historical sites.
Others noted issues with the transportation, citing uncomfortable or unreliable vehicles.
A few reviewers complained about disorganized check-in and pickup procedures, leading to delays and confusion.
However, several customers praised the included lunch and the ability to freely explore the Grand Bazaar on their own.
Duration and Cancellation Policy
This tour lasts for 7 hours, providing ample time to explore the cultural and historical highlights of Istanbul.
The duration of the tour is designed to ensure that you have enough time to fully experience the key sights, such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, and Topkapi Palace, without feeling rushed.
Plus, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing customers flexibility in their travel plans.
This means that if your plans change or you need to adjust your schedule, you can cancel your reservation without penalty.
With the convenience of free cancellation, you can book this tour with confidence, knowing that you can easily make any necessary adjustments to your itinerary.
Pick-up and Drop-off Arrangements
The tour provides free pick-up service from centrally located Istanbul hotels between 8:00 and 9:00 AM, allowing guests a convenient start to their day.
At the end of the tour, the group will be dropped off back at their hotels.
The pick-up service covers the major hotel districts in Istanbul, ensuring accessibility for most visitors.
Guests should be ready at their hotel lobby during the designated pick-up time to avoid delays.
Once the tour concludes, the air-conditioned transportation will return participants directly to their original hotel.
This complimentary transportation service allows guests to fully focus on exploring the highlights of Istanbul without worrying about logistics.
Exploring the Architectural Treasures
The tour’s architectural highlights begin with a visit to the majestic Hagia Sophia, a 6th-century Byzantine basilica that has stood as a testament to the region’s rich history.
Next, travelers will marvel at the Blue Mosque, known for its striking blue tiles and six towering minarets.
Exploring the Hippodrome, an ancient center for sporting and political events, provides a glimpse into the area’s vibrant past.
The tour then ventures to the Grand Covered Bazaar, the world’s largest souk, offering a chance to browse the labyrinth of shops and stalls.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for Visiting Religious Sites?
Visitors should dress modestly when visiting religious sites. This typically means covering the shoulders, arms, and knees. Hats may also need to be removed before entering certain sacred spaces.
Can We Take Photos Inside the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque?
Yes, visitors can take photos inside Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, but they should be respectful and avoid disruptive behavior. Photography is generally permitted, but some areas may have restrictions, so it’s best to check with staff on arrival.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
There’s no option to extend the tour duration, but customers can explore the sites further on their own during the free time provided. The full-day tour has a fixed 7-hour itinerary that covers the key highlights.
Can We Buy Souvenirs at the Grand Bazaar During the Free Time?
Yes, during the free time at the Grand Bazaar, guests can browse the shops and purchase souvenirs. The Bazaar is the world’s largest covered market, offering a wide variety of traditional Turkish handicrafts and gifts.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?
The tour does not offer any discounts for seniors or students. However, visitors can explore the Grand Bazaar on their own during free time and look for deals on souvenirs and local crafts.
Recap
The Byzantine & Ottoman Relics of Istanbul Full Day Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s top attractions.
Visitors can marvel at the iconic Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace, while also experiencing the vibrant Grand Covered Bazaar.
The tour includes transportation, admission fees, lunch, and hotel shuttle service, providing a convenient and enriching way to discover Istanbul’s architectural and cultural treasures.
