Istanbul: Basilica, Topkapi, Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Tour

Exploring Istanbul’s iconic landmarks is a must for any visitor to the city. The Basilica, Topkapi, Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia tour offers a comprehensive 5-hour guided journey through the rich heritage of this captivating destination. With skip-the-line access and informative commentary, travelers can explore the underground marvels of the Basilica Cistern, the opulence of Topkapi Palace, the stunning tile work of the Blue Mosque, and the historical significance of Hagia Sophia. This tour not only provides a seamless experience but also allows for personal exploration, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for Istanbul’s remarkable past.

Key Points

• This 5-hour guided tour covers four iconic Istanbul landmarks: Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia, with skip-the-line entry and expert commentary.
• Explore the underground architecture and Medusa heads at the Basilica Cistern, learn about the Ottoman Empire at Topkapi Palace, and admire the stunning Iznik tiles at the Blue Mosque.
• The tour schedule offers flexibility, with daily availability and specific timings for each attraction, allowing for personalized exploration.
• Adherence to the dress code, particularly at the Blue Mosque, is required for entry into the religious sites.
• The tour provides a comprehensive and enriching experience to discover Istanbul’s heritage, despite the recent changes to Hagia Sophia’s accessibility.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Istanbul: Basilica, Topkapi, Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, with prices starting from Kč 2,502 per person for the 5-hour guided experience.

Guests will enjoy skip-the-line entry and detailed commentary from English-speaking guides as they visit the Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, and the Hagia Sophia.

The tour includes a 30-minute guided tour of the Basilica Cistern, a 2-hour guided tour of Topkapi Palace, a 1-hour guided tour of the Blue Mosque, and a 1-hour tour of the Old City and Hagia Sophia.

Visitors can choose tour times and have free time to explore these sites further on their own.

Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are eligible for a full refund.

Attractions and Tour Highlights

Visitors can look forward to an immersive exploration of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, including the Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, and the Hagia Sophia, during this comprehensive tour.

At the Basilica Cistern, they’ll enjoy a guided tour of the underground architecture and the enigmatic Medusa heads.

The Topkapi Palace tour will take them through the palace’s courtyards and the Harem section, providing insights into the Ottoman Empire’s legacy.

The Blue Mosque visit will allow them to admire the stunning Iznik tiles and learn about the city’s Byzantine and Ottoman heritage.

Tour Schedule and Flexibility

Guests can choose from a variety of daily tour times for each attraction, with the Blue Mosque offering tours at 11:00 A.M. and 1:45 P.M.

The Topkapi Palace is open from 10:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. (except Tuesdays), while the Basilica Cistern is available from 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.

The Old City and Hagia Sophia tours are scheduled at 10:00 A.M. and 2:00 P.M.

This flexibility allows guests to tailor their sightseeing schedule and enjoy free time for personal exploration after each tour.

Whether you prefer an early or late start, the tour itinerary is designed to accommodate various preferences, ensuring a memorable and customized experience in Istanbul.

Visitor Guidelines and Entry Requirements

With the tour schedule flexibility in mind, visitors should be aware of the entry requirements and guidelines for each attraction.

The Blue Mosque doesn’t charge an admission fee, but a security check can take 30-60 minutes. Modest attire is required – women must cover their knees, shoulders, and hair, while men must cover their knees and shoulders. On-site scarves are available for €1, and body covers cost €3.

Importantly, entry inside Hagia Sophia will no longer be possible after January 2024; visitors can access the visiting area for an additional fee. Following these guidelines ensures a seamless and respectful experience at these iconic Istanbul sites.

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Customer Feedback

Customers have provided a 4.2/5 overall rating based on 76 reviews for the Istanbul tour, with a 3.8/5 score for value for money.

Guests appreciated the informative guides and the flexibility of the tour schedule, which allows them to choose their own timings and explore the attractions at their own pace.

The tour covers iconic landmarks like the Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia, providing skip-the-line access and comprehensive insights into the city’s rich history and culture.

While the entry into the Hagia Sophia mosque will no longer be possible after January 2024, the tour still offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s most renowned sites and take in the captivating heritage of Istanbul.

Meeting Point and Additional Information

The meeting point for the Istanbul tour is the Design Cafe in front of the Turkish and Islamic Art Museum, located next to the Egyptian Obelisk.

Travelers should come prepared by bringing a headscarf, as it’s required to cover knees, shoulders, and hair when visiting the Blue Mosque. Shorts, sleeveless shirts, and skirts aren’t allowed.

The tour is flexible, allowing guests to choose their preferred times for visiting the Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia. Visitors should check availability for specific dates and the number of participants.

Booking and Availability

Guests can check availability and book their preferred tour times through the tour provider’s website or by contacting their customer service team. The tour is offered daily, with specific schedules for each attraction, allowing visitors to customize their experience. Reserving a spot in advance is recommended, as tour sizes are limited to ensure an intimate and personalized experience.

Some key considerations when booking this tour include:

1. Flexible scheduling: Guests can choose their preferred tour times for each attraction to fit their itinerary.

2. Limited availability: Tour sizes are capped, so early booking is advised to secure a spot.

3. Advance payment: Guests can reserve their tour and pay later, locking in their preferred date and time.

4. Cancellation policy: Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour package includes guided visits to the Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia, along with pre-arranged skip-the-line entry to these iconic landmarks.

At the Basilica Cistern, you’ll explore the underground architecture and see the famous Medusa heads.

The Topkapi Palace tour covers all courtyards and the Harem section, providing insights into the Ottoman Empire.

The Blue Mosque visit includes admiring the stunning Iznik tiles and learning about the site’s Byzantine and Ottoman heritage.

While a visit to the interior of Hagia Sophia is no longer possible after January 2024, the tour still includes an exploration of the exterior and its history as the largest church for over 1,000 years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos Inside the Topkapi Palace?

Visitors can generally take photos inside the Topkapi Palace. However, there may be restrictions in certain areas or on the use of flash. It’s best to check with the tour guide or palace staff for any specific photography guidelines before your visit.

Are There Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?

The tour does not currently offer any discounts for students or seniors. Pricing is a flat rate per person, with no reduced rates available based on age or student status. Customers should check the tour details for any potential updates to the pricing structure.

How Reliable Is the Transportation From the Meeting Point?

The tour company provides reliable transportation from the meeting point, with guides ensuring guests arrive at each attraction on time. Reviewers consistently praise the organization and punctuality of the tour, indicating the transportation is a reliable component.

Can I Modify the Tour Schedule to Visit Sites in a Different Order?

Yes, guests can typically modify the tour schedule to visit the sites in a different order. The tour offers flexibility, allowing travelers to choose their preferred visit times for each attraction within the overall itinerary.

Is There an Option to Have a Private Tour Guide?

Yes, there is an option to have a private tour guide for this tour. Customers can choose to have a private guide instead of a group tour for a more personalized experience. The cost for a private guide would be an additional fee.

Recap

This Istanbul tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia.

With skip-the-line access and expert commentary, visitors can explore the rich history and architectural wonders of these significant sites.

The flexible schedule and free time for personal exploration make this tour an ideal way to experience the captivating heritage of Istanbul.

You can check if your dates are available here: