Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque & Hippodrome Guided Tours

Istanbul’s iconic landmarks – Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Hippodrome – offer a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich history. Guided tours provide skip-the-line access, allowing visitors to explore the architectural marvels that blend Christian and Islamic influences. With expert commentary, travelers can uncover the intriguing stories behind these historic sites, from the grandeur of Hagia Sophia to the stunning blue tiles of the Blue Mosque. This immersive journey through Sultanahmet Square’s treasures promises an enriching experience that will leave you eager to discover more about Istanbul’s captivating past.

Key Points

• Guided tours of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Hippodrome, with skip-the-line access and private transportation.
• Tours limited to a maximum of 20 travelers for a personalized experience, with professional guides and all fees and taxes included.
• Flexible booking and cancellation options, with a "reserve now, pay later" option available for easier planning.
• Wheelchair and stroller accessibility, with moderate physical fitness required to explore the historical sites.
• Explore the rich cultural heritage of Sultanahmet Square, the historic heart of Istanbul, during the guided tour.

Tour Overview

This guided tour takes visitors on an exploration of some of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks.

Explore the impressive Blue Mosque, known for its intricate blue tiles.

Visit the ancient Hippodrome, site of chariot races in Roman times.

Discover the architectural wonder of Hagia Sophia, a former Byzantine church.

The tour concludes at the German Fountain, honoring German Emperor Wilhelm II.

With skip-the-line tickets, professional guiding, and private transportation included, the tour provides an efficient and comprehensive way to experience these renowned attractions in Sultanahmet Square.

Tour Details

The guided tour is limited to a maximum group size of 20 travelers to provide an intimate and personalized experience.

It’s available in English, and includes skip-the-line tickets, all fees and taxes, professional guiding, and private transportation.

The entrance fee for Hagia Sophia is 25 euro per person, payable on the day. Lunch and all other food and beverages are excluded from the tour price.

The meeting point is Buhara 93 Restaurant, with pickup between 8:30-8:45 am, and the tour concludes at the Grand Bazaar around 4:00 pm.

The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and a moderate level of physical fitness is required.

Meeting and End Points

The meeting point for the guided tour is Buhara 93 Restaurant, located at Sultan Ahmet, Nakilbent Sk. 15/A, 34122 Fatih, Istanbul.

Pickup time is between 08:30-08:45 am, and the tour starts promptly at 9:00 am.

The tour concludes at the Grand Bazaar, Beyazııt, 34126 Fatih, Istanbul.

The key meeting and end points include:

• Buhara 93 Restaurant for pickup
• Start time of 9:00 am
• Tour ends at the Grand Bazaar
• Pickup time between 8:30-8:45 am
• Located in the Fatih district of Istanbul

Accessibility and Additional Info

Wheelchair and stroller accessibility are available for the tour. This makes the experience inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

The tour is also situated near public transportation, allowing for convenient access. Guests should have a moderate level of physical fitness, as the tour involves walking around historical sites.

The maximum group size is 35 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience. The tour caters to a wide range of visitors, prioritizing accessibility and comfort while exploring the iconic landmarks of Sultanahmet Square in Istanbul.

Booking and Cancellation

The tour is priced from $31.44 per person.

Travelers can enjoy flexible booking and cancellation options. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts, allowing for last-minute changes. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, providing peace of mind.

A "reserve now, pay later" option is also available, making it easier to plan ahead.

This tour offers:

• Competitive pricing
• Flexible cancellation policy
• Instant booking confirmation
• "Reserve now, pay later" option
• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees

Exploring Sultanahmet Square

Stepping into the historic heart of Istanbul, visitors are greeted by the captivating Sultanahmet Square. This vibrant plaza, once the epicenter of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, is a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Landmarks	Significance
Blue Mosque	Iconic 17th-century Ottoman mosque, known for its stunning blue tiles
Hippodrome	Ancient Roman chariot racing stadium, now a hub for local life
German Fountain	Ornate fountain, a gift from German Emperor Wilhelm II to the Ottoman Empire

Amid the bustling crowds and the towering monuments, the square offers a glimpse into Istanbul’s past, inviting visitors to explore its layers of history and enjoy the vibrant pulse of the city.

Highlights of the Tour

Guided by a knowledgeable local, the tour takes visitors on an immersive journey through Istanbul’s most iconic sites.

Highlights include:

• Marveling at the intricate blue tiles and impressive architecture of the Blue Mosque, one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.

• Exploring the ancient Hippodrome, where once stood the lively chariot races of the Byzantine Empire.

• Discovering the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, a former Byzantine church turned mosque turned museum, known for its stunning mix of Christian and Islamic elements.

• Concluding at the German Fountain, a picturesque structure honoring German Emperor Wilhelm II.

• Skipping the lines with priority access, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos Inside the Blue Mosque?

Yes, visitors can take photos inside the Blue Mosque, but they shouldn’t use flash as it’s not allowed. The mosque’s stunning blue tiles and ornate architecture make it a popular subject for photos.

How Long Does the Guided Tour Last?

The guided tour lasts approximately 3 hours. The tour starts at 9:00 am and concludes at the Grand Bazaar area, providing ample time to explore the key historical sites in Sultanahmet Square.

Do I Need to Dress Modestly for the Tour?

Yes, visitors should dress modestly when visiting the religious sites on this tour. Proper attire, such as covering shoulders and knees, is required to enter the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.

Is There a Guided Tour to the Grand Bazaar as Well?

The tour overview doesn’t mention a guided tour to the Grand Bazaar. It states the tour concludes at the Grand Bazaar, but it seems there’s no guided component included for that landmark. The tour focuses on the key sights of Sultanahmet Square.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t include time to purchase souvenirs. However, it concludes at the Grand Bazaar, where travelers can explore the famous marketplace and find a wide variety of Turkish handicrafts, textiles, and other local goods.

Recap

Enjoy Istanbul’s rich history by exploring the iconic Hagia Sophia, the magnificent Blue Mosque, and the ancient Hippodrome. With expert guides and skip-the-line access, you’ll uncover the architectural marvels and cultural significance of these Sultanahmet Square treasures, ensuring an enriching and seamless experience that’ll leave you with lasting memories of Istanbul’s captivating past.