Istanbul Historic and Scenic Full Day Tour

Istanbul’s rich history and captivating scenery come alive on the Historic and Scenic Full Day Tour. Over 10 captivating hours, visitors will explore iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, stroll through the historic Hippodrome, and discover the vibrant Balat neighborhood. A scenic Bosphorus boat trip and delectable Turkish lunch round out this comprehensive experience, painting a vivid picture of the city’s architectural and cultural heritage. Whether a first-time or returning traveler, this tour promises to unveil the remarkable sights and stories that have defined Istanbul for centuries. What hidden gems might this journey uncover?

This experience made our list of the 2 Best Full-Day Tours In Turkey.

Key Points

• A comprehensive 10-hour guided tour exploring Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, including Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Balat neighborhood, and the Iron Church.
• Discover the architectural marvels, rich cultural heritage, and historical significance of each site, gaining insightful commentary from a professional guide.
• Enjoy a scenic Bosphorus boat trip and a delectable local lunch as part of the tour package, providing a well-rounded experience.
• Flexible cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring hassle-free planning.
• Prices start from TRY 2,503 per person, with hotel pick-up/drop-off, guide, and other inclusions provided for a seamless tour.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

What does the Istanbul Full Day Tour entail? The tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Istanbul’s historic and scenic highlights over the course of 10 hours.

Priced from TRY 2,503 per person, this guided excursion includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, a professional English and Russian-speaking guide, lunch, a Bosphorus boat trip, and visits to iconic sites like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Balat neighborhood, and Iron Church.

Travelers can marvel at the architectural wonders, enjoy the city’s rich cultural heritage, and savor local Turkish cuisine during the cruise.

The tour also features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for flexibility in planning.

Itinerary Highlights

The Istanbul Full Day Tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the city’s most iconic landmarks and historic neighborhoods.

Highlights include exploring the architectural marvel and historical significance of Hagia Sophia, with its stunning mosaics.

Next, guests visit the Blue Mosque, known for its six minarets and exquisite Iznik tiles, while learning about its pivotal role in Turkish culture.

The tour also includes a stroll through the Hippodrome, the historic sporting and social center, where ancient monuments stand as relics of the past.

Colorful houses, rich cultural heritage, and the stories of Jewish, Greek, and Armenian communities come alive in the Balat neighborhood, before visiting the unique cast-iron structure of the Iron Church.

Hagia Sophia Exploration

Stepping through the grand entrance of Hagia Sophia, visitors are immediately captivated by its architectural grandeur and historical significance.

Constructed in the 6th century, this former Byzantine church and Ottoman mosque is a true marvel of engineering, showcasing a harmonious blend of Christian and Islamic influences.

Visitors can admire the stunning mosaics adorning the interior walls and ceilings, which depict religious figures and scenes from the Bible.

The sheer scale and intricate details of this iconic structure leave a lasting impression, as travelers explore the rich history and cultural legacy of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Blue Mosque Visit

After exploring the grandeur of Hagia Sophia, the tour makes its way to the iconic Blue Mosque, a true architectural gem that has captivated visitors for centuries.

Known for its six slender minarets, the mosque’s exquisite İznik tiles and vast domed interior create a breathtaking sight. Guests will marvel at the mosque’s role in Turkish culture, learning how it’s been an important place of worship and community gathering for generations.

The guide will share the fascinating history and significance of this architectural masterpiece, allowing visitors to fully appreciate its beauty and cultural impact.

The Blue Mosque visit is a highlight, providing a deeper understanding of Istanbul’s rich heritage.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Hippodrome Stroll

Next, the tour group makes its way to the historic Hippodrome, a site that once served as the sporting and social center of ancient Constantinople. Here, they explore the ancient monuments and structures that remain, gaining insights into the vibrant history of this iconic landmark. The guide provides fascinating details about the Hippodrome’s past, from its use as a chariot racing stadium to its role as a hub for public events and demonstrations. The group admires the towering obelisks, columns, and other architectural features that bear witness to the Hippodrome’s storied past.

Feature	Description
Obelisk of Theodosius	Erected in 390 CE, this ancient Egyptian obelisk stands as a testament to the Hippodrome’s rich history.
Serpent Column	A bronze column originally from the Temple of Apollo at Delphi, now a prominent feature of the Hippodrome.
Constantine Column	Topped with a statue of the first Christian Roman emperor, this column symbolizes the Hippodrome’s importance in Byzantine times.
Fountain of Wilhelm II	A more modern addition, this ornate fountain was gifted by the German Emperor in the early 20th century.
Remains of the Kathisma	The foundations of the Hippodrome’s imperial pavilion, where the Byzantine emperors would have watched the races.

Balat Neighborhood Tour

From the historic Hippodrome, the tour group ventures into the enchanting Balat neighborhood, where they enjoy the vibrant cultural tapestry of Istanbul.

Strolling down the colorful streets, they admire the beautifully preserved houses, each with its own unique character and history.

The guide shares stories of the area’s diverse communities – Jewish, Greek, and Armenian – that have shaped the neighborhood’s rich heritage over the centuries.

Balat’s cultural wealth is evident in the intricate architecture, the bustling markets, and the welcoming locals who are eager to share their traditions.

This vibrant enclave offers a glimpse into Istanbul’s multicultural past and present.

Iron Church Significance

The tour then proceeds to the unique and historically significant Iron Church, a remarkable cast-iron structure that holds deep importance for the Bulgarian community in Istanbul.

Constructed in the late 19th century, the Iron Church, also known as the St. Stephen’s Church, is a true architectural gem. Its distinctive design, featuring a cast-iron frame and intricate details, make it a one-of-a-kind building.

The church holds immense cultural and religious significance for the Bulgarian population, serving as a place of worship and a symbol of their heritage in the city.

Visitors can explore the church’s interior, admiring its stunning craftsmanship and learning about its pivotal role in the lives of Istanbul’s Bulgarian residents.

Bosphorus Boat Trip

After exploring the historic landmarks, the tour takes travelers on a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus Strait.

During this relaxing boat ride, guests can admire the stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline, palaces, and iconic bridges.

The cruise includes a delectable lunch featuring local Turkish cuisine, allowing visitors to savor the flavors of the region.

As the boat glides across the waterway separating Europe and Asia, travelers have the opportunity to appreciate the unique geographical location and rich cultural heritage of Istanbul.

The Bosphorus boat trip provides a peaceful respite from the bustling city, offering a chance to soak in the beauty and tranquility of this iconic waterway.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to Fit My Interests?

Yes, you can typically customize the tour to suit your interests. Many tour providers offer flexibility to adjust the itinerary or focus areas based on your preferences, ensuring you have an enriching and personalized experience.

Is the Tour Wheelchair/Disabled Accessible?

The tour is generally wheelchair/disabled accessible, with the guide able to adjust the itinerary to accommodate participants’ needs. Visitors should notify the tour provider in advance to ensure the necessary arrangements are made.

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting Religious Sites?

When visiting religious sites, it’s important to dress conservatively. This typically means covering shoulders and knees, and avoiding tight or revealing clothing. Many sites may also require women to cover their hair with a scarf.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Trip?

Passengers are generally not permitted to bring their own food or drinks on the Bosphorus boat trip. The tour includes a lunch served on board featuring local Turkish cuisine, so outside food and beverages are typically not allowed.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour operator does not offer an option to extend the tour duration. The standard full-day tour lasts 10 hours, and there’s no flexibility to customize the length of the experience beyond what’s included in the itinerary.

Recap

The Istanbul Historic and Scenic Full Day Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks and neighborhoods. From the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia to the picturesque Balat district, the tour provides an immersive experience that combines rich history, stunning architecture, and the natural beauty of the Bosphorus. With a delicious Turkish lunch and a scenic boat trip, this captivating tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to discover the essence of Istanbul.

You can check if your dates are available here: