Your driver and licensed guide will meet you in front of Istanbul's port passenger Terminal. You drive along the old city walls and under the ancient Roman aqueduct on the way to St. Sophia (Haghia Sophia), the splendid Church of Divine Wisdom built in the 4th century BC. St Sophia's dome was then the largest in the world. After several conquests and pillages, the building was converted into a mosque, but fell into disrepair as centuries passed. The brilliant Byzantine mosaics were uncovered in the 1900s and the church now is a breathtaking Byzantine-Ottoman museum.
Next you walk to the Hippodrome used for outdoor chariot races in Roman times. Today it is lined with parks, obelisks and monuments. Next to the Hippodrome is the famous Blue Mosque, named for its richly adorned interior of magnificent Iznik tiles. Your guide will take you through the Blue Mosque and provide an explanation of this Western leaning Muslim country.
Finally you are taken to the Grand Bazaar which houses more than 4,000 stalls selling local goods. Or, if you prefer, you can request to visit the Egyptian Spice Market instead.
Tour Breakdown:
1- Depart pier and drive to St. Sophia- 30 Minutes
2- Tour St. Sophia - 1 Hour
3- Walk to Hippodrome & Blue Mosque- 10 Minutes
4- Visit Hippodrome & Blue Mosque- 40 Minutes
5- Drive to Grand Bazaar - 10 Minutes
6- Enjoy Shopping in Grand Bazaar - 1 Hour
7- Return to pier - 20 Minutes
Total tour time is approximately 4 hours. Please note that this itinerary requires walking and includes uneven surfaces. It is not wheelchair accessible. The tour prices listed below are for your entire private group.
Note on visiting Mosques- Shoes must be removed to enter a Mosque, and you may be required to carry them with you in a plastic bag during your visit. We suggest bringing socks to slip on if you are not wearing them. Women should carry a scarf because they may be asked to cover their heads. Bare shoulders, shorts, and dresses above the knee are not allowed. Please come prepared...
Including:
All Entrances
All Transfers (from / to Cruise)
Private Guide & Minivan & Driver
All Taxes
Not Included:
Meals
Personal Expenses
Travel Insurance
