Why This Tour Is Worth Choosing

• Visit Süleymaniye Mosque: Explore Sinan’s architectural masterpiece.
• Discover Yedikule Fortress: Experience Istanbul’s largest open-air museum.
• Guided Half-Day Tour: Expert guides lead you through historic Sultanahmet.
• Optional Leather Shopping: Shop quality leather accessories at a top outlet.
• Ends at Sultanahmet: Convenient tour conclusion with no hotel transfers.

What to Expect

SÜLEYMANİYE MOSQUE & YEDİKULE FORTRESS Half Day Morning Tour

Explore the historical heart of Istanbul on the Süleymaniye Mosque & Yedikule Fortress Half Day Morning Tour, a carefully designed cultural experience that brings together Ottoman brilliance and Byzantine heritage. This morning tour is ideal for travelers who want to discover Istanbul’s most significant landmarks in a limited time while gaining deep historical insight.

Half Day Cultural Tour in Istanbul

This half-day morning tour focuses on two iconic monuments that represent different eras of Istanbul’s long and layered history. With professional guidance, comfortable pacing, and a well-structured route, the tour offers a meaningful introduction to the city’s architectural and cultural legacy.

Süleymaniye Mosque – Masterpiece of Ottoman Architecture

The Süleymaniye Mosque is one of Istanbul’s most important imperial mosques and a defining work of the legendary Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan.

About Süleymaniye Mosque

Built between 1550 and 1557 for Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, the mosque reflects the height of Ottoman architectural achievement.

• One of the largest mosque complexes in Istanbul
• Four elegant minarets symbolizing Sultan Suleiman as the fourth Ottoman sultan after the conquest of Constantinople
• Harmonious interior design known for balance, light, and acoustic perfection
• Comparable in scale and artistic ambition to Hagia Sophia

The mosque complex also includes historical madrasas, courtyards, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Golden Horn.

Yedikule Fortress – The Fortress of the Seven Towers

Yedikule Fortress stands as a powerful reminder of Istanbul’s ancient defensive system and imperial past.

About Yedikule Fortress

• Originally constructed in 390 AD during the reign of Emperor Theodosius I
• Built to welcome Roman emperors and foreign dignitaries entering the city
• Later expanded by the Ottomans and used as a fortress, treasury, and prison
• Today recognized as Istanbul’s largest open-air museum

Young Osman (Osman II)

Young Osman (Osman II) ascended the Ottoman throne in 1618. After planning to abolish the Janissary Corps, he was overthrown in 1622 and killed in the Yedikule Dungeons.

Visitors can explore massive stone walls, historic towers, inner courtyards, and enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Sea of Marmara.

Optional Leather Shopping Experience

After the historical visits, guests may choose to participate in an optional leather shopping experience at a well-known outlet center.

What to Expect

• Live fashion show presenting high-quality leather garments and accessories
• Opportunity to browse a wide range of stylish leather products
• Competitive outlet prices with no obligation to purchase

This optional stop adds a modern cultural touch to the historical tour.

Tour Information

Duration

Half-day morning tour

Pick-up & Meeting Point

• Hotel lobby for centrally located hotels on the European side
• Sirkeci Train Station for guests staying on the Asian side

Drop-off Point

Sultanahmet area
(No transfer back to hotels)

Operating Days

Every day except Mondays

Why Choose This Tour?

• Ideal half-day itinerary for limited schedules
• Combines Ottoman and Byzantine heritage
• Professionally guided cultural experience
• Balanced pace with historical depth
• Optional shopping without pressure

Tour Highlights

• Guided visit to Süleymaniye Mosque
• Exploration of Yedikule Fortress (Seven Towers)
• Insight into Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman history
• Panoramic city and sea views
• Optional leather outlet visit with fashion show

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately half a day and is conducted in the morning.

Is hotel pick-up included?
Yes, pick-up is provided from centrally located hotels on the European side. Guests on the Asian side meet at Sirkeci Train Station.

Does the tour include hotel drop-off?
No, the tour ends in the Sultanahmet area without hotel drop-off.

Is the leather shopping stop mandatory?
No, the leather shopping experience is optional.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is suitable for travelers of all ages with moderate walking.

On which days does the tour operate?
The tour operates daily except Mondays.

Experience Istanbul’s imperial grandeur and ancient defenses in just one morning with the Süleymaniye Mosque & Yedikule Fortress Half Day Morning Tour—a perfect blend of history, architecture, and culture.

What’s Included in the Price

Pickup Information

Meeting Point

Important Information Before You Go

Important Information and Rules

Operating Days: The tour operates daily, except Mondays, when Yedikule Fortress is closed.

Winter Availability Notice: This tour may not run during the winter due to insufficient participants. Please check with us before making a reservation.

Tour Schedule: Morning departures are available; please arrive at least 15 minutes early. The tour concludes in Sultanahmet, and no hotel transfers are provided.

Meeting Point: The meeting point is your hotel. Participants are picked up from their hotels. For hotels not accessible by car, an alternative meeting point within a short walking distance will be arranged.

Included in the Tour Price: Professional English-speaking guides, air-conditioned transport, entrance fees, and informative brochures.

Not Included in the Tour Price: Meals, drinks, personal expenses, optional leather shopping (additional costs), travel insurance, and tips.

Dress Code: Modest clothing is required for religious sites. Shoulders and knees must be covered, and shoes must be removed before entering Süleymaniye Mosque.

Cancellation Policy: Full refunds are available for cancellations made at least 48 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 48 hours may incur a fee.

Health & Safety: Follow the instructions provided by your guide. Notify in advance of any special needs or health concerns.

Behavior Expectations: Respect cultural and historical sites. Smoking and alcohol consumption are prohibited during the tour.

Photography Policy: Photography is allowed, but flash use is restricted in sensitive areas.

Weather Policy: Tours operate in all weather conditions. Severe weather may result in rescheduling with prior notification.

Group Size: Limited group sizes ensure a personalized experience. Early booking is recommended.

Additional Information: Book early to secure your preferred date. Contact our support team for any questions or special requests. Explore Istanbul's landmarks comfortably and with ease.

Tour Program & Schedule

Tour Itinerary: SÜLEYMANİYE MOSQUE & YEDİKULE FORTRESS Half Day Morning Tour

08:30 AM – Pick-Up from Your Hotel

• Meet at your hotel lobby or designated meeting point.
• Available for centrally located hotels on Istanbul’s European side and Sirkeci Train Station on the Asian side.

09:00 AM – Arrival at Süleymaniye Mosque

• Guided tour of the magnificent Süleymaniye Mosque.
• Explore its stunning architecture, four minarets, and beautiful courtyards.
• Learn about its historical significance and the legacy of architect Sinan.

10:30 AM – Departure for Yedikule Fortress

• Comfortable, air-conditioned transportation to Yedikule Fortress.

11:00 AM – Explore Yedikule Fortress

• Guided tour of the Fortress of the Seven Towers.
• Discover ancient defensive structures and enjoy panoramic views of Istanbul.
• Learn about its history from Emperor Theodosius to the Ottoman era.

12:30 PM – Optional Leather Shopping Experience

• Visit a premier outlet center to watch a live fashion show featuring high-quality leather accessories.
• Opportunity to purchase affordable and stylish leather products (optional, additional cost applies).

01:30 PM – Conclusion of the Tour in Sultanahmet

• Drop-off in the Sultanahmet area.
• Tour ends here; no hotel transfers provided.

Book your SÜLEYMANİYE MOSQUE & YEDİKULE FORTRESS Half Day Morning Tour today and immerse yourself in Istanbul’s iconic landmarks and rich history!

Prices & Availability

01 January 2025 / 31 December 2025 - Price

01 January 2026 / 31 December 2026 - Price