Istanbul: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Cistern & Bazaar Tour

Istanbul’s rich history and architectural wonders come alive on this captivating tour. Visitors will be immersed in the grandeur of the Blue Mosque, the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, and the serene Basilica Cistern. But the journey doesn’t end there – the vibrant Grand Bazaar promises a truly immersive cultural experience, where haggling for unique souvenirs amidst the bustling market atmosphere adds an unforgettable touch. With expert guidance and carefully curated sights, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to uncover the city’s captivating past and vibrant present. Prepare to be enchanted, as the secrets of Istanbul await discovery.

Key Points

• This 5-hour guided tour covers iconic Istanbul landmarks, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, and the bustling Grand Bazaar.
• Pricing for the tour starts from Kč813 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Highlights of the tour include 75-minute visits to the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, and a 45-minute exploration of the Basilica Cistern.
• The tour emphasizes the architectural styles that blend Islamic and Byzantine influences, creating serene and historically significant atmospheres.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or individuals with mobility issues or heart problems, but is wheelchair accessible for visitors with disabilities.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This guided Istanbul excursion covers the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, and Grand Bazaar, and is priced from Kč813 per person.

The tour lasts 5 hours and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can also choose the reserve now and pay later option.

Key highlights include 75-minute visits to the Blue Mosque, known for its blue Iznik tiles, and the architectural masterpiece Hagia Sophia, as well as a 45-minute exploration of the serene Basilica Cistern.

The tour also includes a visit to the vibrant Grand Bazaar, offering thousands of shops selling spices, textiles, jewelry, and carpets.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a 75-minute visit to the iconic Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, renowned for its stunning blue Iznik tiles, six minarets, and the unique blend of Islamic and Byzantine architectural styles.

Next, the group will spend 75 minutes exploring the Hagia Sophia, an architectural masterpiece that has served as both a church and a mosque before becoming a museum.

The tour then takes visitors to the Basilica Cistern, an underground reservoir from the Roman period, where they’ll spend 45 minutes marveling at the serene atmosphere and the impressive Medusa heads.

Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)

Visitors can spend 75 minutes exploring the iconic Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, which is renowned for its stunning blue Iznik tiles, six minarets, and the unique blend of Islamic and Byzantine architectural styles.

The mosque’s intricate design features more than 20,000 tiles in various shades of blue, earning it the nickname ‘Blue Mosque.’

Constructed between 1609 and 1616, the Blue Mosque is considered one of the most impressive examples of classical Ottoman architecture.

Travelers will be awestruck by the mosque’s grand scale, captivating interiors, and the serene atmosphere that permeates the space, making it a must-see on any Istanbul itinerary.

Hagia Sophia

Considered an architectural masterpiece, Hagia Sophia impresses visitors with its mesmerizing dome and intricate mosaics, having served as both a church and a mosque throughout its storied history.

During the tour’s 75-minute visit, you’ll marvel at the structure’s stunning Byzantine architecture and its remarkable transformation over the centuries.

Highlights include:

1. The stunning 105-foot central dome, which appears to float above the grand interior.

2. Stunning Byzantine mosaics, including the famous image of the Virgin Mary and Christ Child.

3. The impressive scale and grandeur of the space, which could accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers.

4. The unique blend of Christian and Islamic design elements, a testament to the building’s multifaceted past.

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Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı)

After exploring the grandeur of Hagia Sophia, the tour takes visitors underground to the serene and atmospheric Basilica Cistern, a remarkable feat of ancient Roman engineering.

Constructed in the 6th century, this vast underground reservoir provided a steady water supply to the Byzantine capital.

Visitors are captivated by the Basilica Cistern’s 336 columns, each standing 9 meters tall, and the eerie beauty of the two Medusa heads that serve as column bases.

The dim lighting and gentle sounds of dripping water create a truly tranquil ambiance, allowing visitors to appreciate the ingenuity and craftsmanship of this remarkable subterranean structure.

With 45 minutes allotted, there’s ample time to wander the cavernous space and marvel at this hidden gem of Istanbul.

Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı)

Exploring the vibrant Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, offers visitors an immersive experience in the heart of Istanbul’s bustling commercial district.

Wandering through the labyrinth of alleyways, you’ll find thousands of shops brimming with an array of captivating goods, from exquisite spices and textiles to dazzling jewelry and ornate carpets.

The sensory overload is both exhilarating and overwhelming, as the air fills with the aroma of fragrant teas and the sounds of haggling merchants. Embrace the chaos and lose yourself in the energy of this iconic marketplace, where you can:

1. Haggle for the best deals on handcrafted souvenirs

2. Savor delectable Turkish delights and freshly brewed tea

3. Admire the intricate patterns and vibrant colors of traditional rugs

4. Discover hidden gems and one-of-a-kind treasures

Inclusions and Accessibility

The tour includes an English-speaking guide, as well as entrance tickets to the Basilica Cistern (800 TRY) and Hagia Sophia (25 EUR). It also provides headsets for groups of 15 or more.

However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or those with heart problems. The good news is that the tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing visitors with disabilities to fully enjoy the experience.

Just be sure to dress appropriately, with long pants and a headscarf for women when visiting the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque.

Meeting Point and Important Information

The meeting point for the Istanbul tour is the Pudding Shop Lale Restaurant.

Visitors should be mindful of the dress code – long pants are required, and women need to bring a headscarf for the visits to the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque.

It’s important to note that the tour tickets for the Basilica Cistern and Hagia Sophia aren’t included in the tour price and need to be purchased separately.

The tour provides a wonderful opportunity to explore the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Here are a few key highlights that may evoke emotion in the audience:

1. Marveling at the stunning blue Iznik tiles and intricate architecture of the Blue Mosque.

2. Experiencing the grandeur and history of the Hagia Sophia, a true architectural masterpiece.

3. Descending into the serene and atmospheric Basilica Cistern, a unique underground wonder.

4. Immersing oneself in the vibrant energy and captivating wares of the Grand Bazaar.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos Inside the Hagia Sophia?

Yes, visitors can take photos inside Hagia Sophia. Photography is allowed in most areas of the museum, except for the mosaics which have restricted access. However, visitors must refrain from using flash photography.

Are There Any Dress Code Requirements for Men?

Yes, there are dress code requirements for men on this tour. Men must wear long pants when visiting the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. Shorts and short skirts are not permitted inside these religious sites.

Is There a Lunch Break Included in the Tour?

The tour does not include a lunch break. It focuses on covering the key sights in Istanbul over a 5-hour period, allowing limited time for each destination. Participants can opt to have lunch on their own during the free time provided.

Can I Bring My Own Water and Snacks?

Participants are allowed to bring their own water and snacks on the tour. Bringing personal provisions can help ensure you stay hydrated and energized throughout the 5-hour excursion. Food and drinks are permitted, but not provided as part of the tour.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Souvenir Shopping at the Grand Bazaar?

The tour allots approximately 1 hour for exploring the Grand Bazaar, providing ample time for visitors to browse the thousands of shops and stalls offering a variety of souvenirs, handicrafts, and local specialties at their own pace.

Recap

This tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in Istanbul’s captivating history and architectural wonders.

From the stunning Blue Mosque to the majestic Hagia Sophia, the serene Basilica Cistern, and the vibrant Grand Bazaar, this experience provides a comprehensive glimpse into the city’s rich cultural tapestry.

Visitors will come away with a deeper appreciation for Istanbul’s remarkable heritage and the chance to collect unique souvenirs amidst the bustling market atmosphere.

You can check if your dates are available here: