Highlights | Overview

• Hagia Sophia: Explore one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks
• Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque): Admire the stunning architecture of this historic mosque
• Hippodrome Square: Discover the ancient heart of Byzantine Istanbul
• German Fountain: Visit this grand imperial gift in Sultanahmet Square
• Grand Bazaar: Shop in one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets
• Suleymaniye Mosque: Experience the magnificence of this Ottoman masterpiece
• Golden Horn, Fener, and Balat Region: Wander through these historic and picturesque neighborhoods
• Bulgarian Iron Church: Visit the stunning church made entirely of iron
• Fener Orthodox Patriarchate: Learn about the spiritual significance of the Orthodox Patriarchate
• Traditional Turkish Tea / Turkish Coffee: Enjoy a taste of authentic Turkish hospitality and culture

Full Description

Istanbul Imperial Tour

This exclusive tour can be done with a minimum of 4 people, or for fewer participants, the price of 4 people applies.

We’ll begin with a visit to Hagia Sophia, a marvel of architecture and one of the Eight Wonders of the World. Known as the “master of the buildings,” this historic site has a unique place in architectural history and is one of the few surviving works of its age. Next, we’ll visit the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque), famous for its exquisite Iznik blue tiles and as the only imperial mosque in the world originally built with six minarets.

Our journey continues to the Hippodrome Square, once the center of social and sporting life in Byzantine Constantinople. See historical relics like the Egyptian Obelisk and the Serpent Column. Afterward, we’ll stop by the German Fountain, also known as the Kaiser Wilhelm Fountain, built to commemorate Emperor Wilhelm II’s visit in 1898, featuring Neo-Byzantine style architecture and gold mosaics.

We’ll then head to the Istanbul Grand Bazaar, the oldest and largest covered market in the world with over 4,000 shops, an essential part of Istanbul’s commercial history. After exploring the bazaar, enjoy a delicious traditional lunch at a local restaurant.

Lunch Menu: Seasonal vegetables marinated in homemade olive oil, traditional fried pastry with Smoked Beurre cheese, garden greens salad, grilled meatballs with rice and boiled seasonal vegetables, and fresh seasonal fruits. (Vegetarian menu available)

Hidden Treasures of Istanbul Tour

After lunch, we visit the Süleymaniye Mosque, a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture and one of the largest and most impressive mosques in Istanbul. Designed by the great architect Mimar Sinan in the 16th century, this mosque represents the height of Ottoman architectural achievement.

Next, we’ll explore the Fener and Balat neighborhoods along the Golden Horn, known for their colorful historical houses and rich culture. These districts, home to Istanbul’s Armenian and Greek communities during the late Ottoman and early Republican periods, are famous for their diverse food culture. As you listen to your guide’s stories, enjoy a break for Traditional Turkish Tea and Turkish Coffee.

We’ll also explore the remains of Istanbul's ancient city walls, dating back to 5 AD, which have stood strong for centuries, and visit St. Stephen's Iron Church, a Bulgarian Orthodox church made entirely of prefabricated cast iron in neo-Byzantine style.

In the Fener and Balat districts, explore antique shops and discover remnants of the past. Antique hunters frequently roam these streets, where the value of forgotten treasures can surprise you.

The tour concludes with a visit to the Fener Greek Orthodox Patriarchate and Saint Hireşdagabet Armenian Orthodox Church, finishing this wonderful journey through Istanbul's rich history.

End of the tour: We will return to your hotel, filled with memories of Istanbul’s imperial past.

Book your Istanbul Imperial Tour today to explore the city's most iconic landmarks, fascinating neighborhoods, and hidden gems!

Price included

Pick Up Place

Pick up Point

Details to know

Important Information for Your Istanbul Imperial Tour

• Pick-up Time: Please be ready in the hotel lobby 5 minutes before the scheduled pick-up time provided to you.
• Minimum Participants: This tour requires a minimum of 2 participants.
• Blue Mosque Visit: On Friday mornings, the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque) can only be visited from the outside until 13:00 due to the noon prayer.
• Grand Bazaar Closure: The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays. Instead, we will visit Nuruosmaniye Street, located around the Grand Bazaar.
• Walking Difficulties: Please note that this tour is not suitable for individuals with walking difficulties due to the extensive walking involved.

Additional information

Imperial and Hidden Treasures of Istanbul: Full Day Tour Itinerary

• Pick-up from centrally located Istanbul hotels
• Hagia Sophia: Explore the architectural marvel and historical significance
• Sultanahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque): Visit the iconic mosque, famous for its blue tiles
• Hippodrome Square: Discover the ancient center of social and sporting life in Byzantium
• German Fountain: Admire the neo-Byzantine architecture, built to commemorate Wilhelm II’s visit
• Grand Bazaar: Shop in one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets
• Suleymaniye Mosque: Visit the grand Ottoman mosque designed by architect Sinan
• Fener and Balat Regions: Explore the historical neighborhoods with colorful houses
• Traditional Turkish Tea / Turkish Coffee: Enjoy a cultural break with authentic beverages
• The Walls of Istanbul: See remnants of the ancient city walls dating back to 5 AD
• St. Stephen's Iron Church: Visit the Bulgarian Orthodox church, built from prefabricated cast iron
• St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church: Experience the beauty of this historic church
• Fener Greek Orthodox Patriarchate: Explore the spiritual heart of the Greek Orthodox community
• St Hiresdagabet Armenian Orthodox Church: Discover the history and significance of this Armenian church
• End of tour: Return to your hotel to conclude the tour

Period & Price

01 January 2024 / 31 December 2024 - Price

01 January 2025 / 31 December 2025 - Price