Highlights | Overview

• Uncover Istanbul's Rich Heritage: Dive into the historical grandeur of Topkapi Palace and the breathtaking architecture of Hagia Sophia. Complete your experience with a visit to the bustling Grand Bazaar and Egyptian Bazaar, capturing the essence of Turkish culture.
• Must-See Landmarks for Travelers: No visit to Istanbul is complete without exploring Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar and Egyptian Bazaar for a genuine taste of Istanbul’s heritage.
• Experience Iconic Istanbul Sites: Discover the splendor of Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia, two iconic landmarks that reveal the city’s rich history and culture. Wander through the nearby Grand Bazaar and Egyptian Bazaar for an authentic Turkish experience.

Full Description

THE IMPERIAL & OTTOMAN SPLENDORS TOUR

Byzantine and Ottoman Treasures of Istanbul

Discover Istanbul’s historical peninsula on a captivating city tour that unveils the wonders of Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and more. Book now to experience the charm and grandeur of this unforgettable city!

About Istanbul
As Turkey's largest city and the world's only metropolis spanning two continents, Istanbul is a unique blend of cultures. The city extends across both sides of the Bosphorus and encompasses the natural harbor of the Golden Horn.

Highlights of the Istanbul City Tour
This full-day Istanbul tour covers the city’s four most iconic historical sites: the unparalleled Hagia Sophia Museum, the majestic Blue Mosque, the ancient Grand Bazaar, and the royal Topkapi Palace. We will also visit the historic Hippodrome in Sultanahmet Square.

The Blue Mosque
Named after the vibrant Sultanahmet Square, the Blue Mosque is one of the Ottoman Empire’s grandest legacies. Commissioned by Sultan Ahmet I and completed in 1616, this mosque is a prime example of classical Turkish art with six minarets and a breathtaking dome standing at 43 meters high. The Blue Mosque’s architecture is a blend of Ottoman and Byzantine styles, inspired by Hagia Sophia but showcasing distinct Islamic elements. Skillfully placed windows fill the mosque with light, giving the large dome a floating effect.

Hagia Sophia
Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia, often hailed as the "eighth wonder of the world," is an extraordinary Byzantine relic. Commissioned by Emperor Justinian in 532, this monumental basilica stood as the world’s largest and most remarkable structure for centuries. With designs by architects Anthemios of Tralles and Isidoros of Miletus, Hagia Sophia was completed in just five years, opening in 537. Despite fires and earthquakes, Hagia Sophia remains a symbol of Istanbul’s enduring legacy.

Topkapi Palace Museum
Overlooking the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus, Topkapi Palace was the heart of the Ottoman Empire, built by Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror in 1478. This palace once hosted Ottoman sultans and their court, and today it serves as a museum preserving the splendor and heritage of that era.

Grand Bazaar
Constructed in 1461 during Sultan Mehmet’s reign, the Grand Bazaar is Istanbul’s oldest and largest covered market, with 60 bustling streets and over 3,000 shops. Resembling a labyrinth, the bazaar is a unique attraction where history and culture intertwine, offering visitors an authentic shopping experience in a vibrant setting.

Price included

Pick Up Place

Hotel Pick-Up and Drop-Off Information: For your convenience, hotel pick-up and drop-off services are provided exclusively from centrally located hotels on the European side of Istanbul. Please note that additional charges may apply for transportation from other areas or Istanbul airports.

Pick up Point

Meeting Point for Pick-Up: Our team will meet you in the hotel lobby near the reception for pick-up. Please provide your room number to help us locate you easily.

Details to know

Daily Full-Day Istanbul Tour: Discover Historical Highlights

Join us for a full-day tour of Istanbul’s rich history, exploring iconic sites like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Grand Bazaar, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Eirene Church, and the beautiful Gulhane Park. With museum fees included (except for the Harem section at Topkapi Palace), this tour offers a seamless experience of Istanbul’s cultural treasures.

Itinerary Adjustments
Vigo Tours reserves the right to modify the itinerary due to unforeseen circumstances such as museum closures, holidays, strikes, weather conditions, or other events.

Additional Highlights
Throughout the tour, you'll also see landmarks such as:

• Valens Aqueduct
• Theodosius Obelisk
• Serpentine Column
• German Fountain of Wilhelm II

Important Notes

• Blue Mosque: Visits on Friday mornings are from outside only until 13:00 due to noon prayer.
• Grand Bazaar: Closed on Sundays, so we visit Nuruosmaniye Street instead.
• Topkapi Palace: Closed on Tuesdays.

Lunch Menu
Enjoy a traditional lunch featuring:

• Seasonal vegetables marinated in olive oil
• Crispy cheese-stuffed pastries (Sigara Börek)
• Fresh garden greens salad
• Traditional grilled meatballs (Kofte) with rice and seasonal vegetables
• Fresh seasonal fruit plate
  A vegetarian menu is also available.

Embark on this immersive Istanbul tour to experience the city's timeless charm and historical wonders!

Additional information

Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia Museum, Topkapi Palace, and Grand Bazaar Tour Program

Experience the must-see historical marvels of Istanbul and immerse yourself in the ancient city’s rich cultural heritage!

Tour Schedule:

• 08:30 – Pick-up from centrally located hotels on the European side of Istanbul
• Ancient Hippodrome – Explore the historic gathering place of Byzantine chariot races
• Topkapi Palace & Holy Relics – Discover the grandeur of the Ottoman palace and its sacred relics
• Lunch – Enjoy a traditional meal (included)
• Hagia Sophia – Visit the awe-inspiring former cathedral and mosque
• Blue Mosque – Admire this iconic masterpiece of Ottoman architecture
• Grand Bazaar – Wander through one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets
• Hagia Eirene Church – Step into one of Istanbul’s oldest churches, with origins in the Byzantine period
• 17:00 – End of tour and return to hotels

Don’t leave Istanbul without witnessing these incredible historical landmarks!

Period & Price

01 January 2024 / 31 December 2024 - Price

01 January 2025 / 31 December 2025 - Price

Book Now