Topkapi Palace-Harem, Basilica Cistern, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque

Immersing oneself in the grand Ottoman legacy, the tour of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks promises an unforgettable journey. From the opulent Topkapi Palace and its captivating Harem to the hauntingly beautiful Basilica Cistern, each site offers a unique window into the city’s rich history. The stunning Blue Mosque and the majestic Hagia Sophia, with their architectural marvels and breathtaking mosaics, captivate visitors. As the tour progresses, one can’t help but wonder what other wonders await, setting the stage for a truly remarkable exploration.

Key Points

• The guided tour visits Topkapi Palace, showcasing the opulent halls, courtyards, and the private Harem quarters of the Ottoman sultans.
• The Basilica Cistern, an underground water reservoir, features over 300 columns supporting the vast, dimly lit space.
• Hagia Sophia, a significant example of Byzantine architecture, impresses visitors with its stunning interior and famous mosaics.
• The Blue Mosque, a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture, is adorned with elaborate blue-and-white tiles.
• Visitors have the opportunity to explore the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest markets, and bargain for traditional Turkish crafts and spices.

Tour Overview and Attractions

The tour provides a guided visit to the iconic Topkapi Palace and its captivating Harem.

Visitors will also explore the Blue Mosque, renowned for its stunning architecture and intricate interior.

The tour includes a stop at the Hagia Irene Church, offering a glimpse into Byzantine history.

The Basilica Cistern, with its mesmerizing underground chambers, is another highlight.

Attendees will visit the Hippodrome, a former sports arena, and have free time to explore the bustling Grand Bazaar.

The tour culminates with entry to the impressive Hagia Sophia, a true architectural masterpiece.

This comprehensive itinerary allows travelers to enjoy Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage.

Pricing and Tickets

Topkapi Palace entrance tickets cost 1,700 Turkish Lira per person, payable in cash.

Visiting the Basilica Cistern requires an 800 TL entry fee per person.

There’s an additional 25 Euro fee to enter Hagia Sophia after the main saloon closure starting in January 2024.

The overall tour price is $61.46. The tour includes a professional English-speaking guide, but gratuities and lunch aren’t covered.

Travelers must meet at the Buhara 93 Restaurant in Sultan Ahmet, Fatih, Istanbul at 9 am. The activity ends back at the meeting point.

The tour has a maximum of 14 participants and requires a moderate fitness level.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off if the option is selected, as well as a professional English-speaking guide.

Gratuities and lunch aren’t included. Confirmation is received at booking. The start time is 9:00 am, and the meeting point is Buhara 93 Restaurant in Sultan Ahmet, Fatih, Istanbul.

Fixed pick-up times are available for centrally located hotels. The activity ends at the meeting point.

The tour has a maximum of 14 travelers and isn’t wheelchair accessible, but stroller accessible. A moderate physical fitness level is required, and specific dress code applies for sacred sites.

Grand Bazaar is closed on religious holidays and Sundays.

Meeting Points and Schedule

At 9:00 am, the tour commences from the Buhara 93 Restaurant, located in Sultan Ahmet, Fatih, Istanbul. The guide will meet the group at the restaurant, and they’ll embark on a journey to explore the city’s rich history and iconic landmarks. For those staying at centrally located hotels, there are fixed pick-up times to ensure a seamless start to the tour.

Start Time	Meeting Point	Activity Ends
9:00 am	Buhara 93 Restaurant, Sultan Ahmet, Fatih, Istanbul	At the meeting point
Fixed pick-up times	Centrally located hotels	N/A
Maximum of 14 travelers	Not wheelchair accessible; stroller accessible	Moderate physical fitness level required

The tour is designed to maximize the experience, with a focus on efficiency and convenience for the participants.

Topkapi Palace and Harem

After the group assembles at the meeting point, the tour begins with a guided visit to the iconic Topkapi Palace.

This former residence of Ottoman sultans is a stunning example of Ottoman architecture. The group will explore the palace’s opulent halls, courtyards, and gardens, learning about its rich history and the lives of the rulers who once called it home.

The highlight of the visit is a guided tour of the Harem, the private quarters of the sultan’s family, which offers a glimpse into the intrigues and power dynamics of the Ottoman court.

With an expert guide providing insights, visitors can enjoy the grandeur and intricacies of this remarkable historical site.

Blue Mosque and Hagia Irene

Following the group’s immersive exploration of Topkapi Palace, they now head out to uncover the captivating spiritual sites of Istanbul.

The first stop is the Blue Mosque, an iconic masterpiece of Ottoman architecture. Adorned with magnificent domes and minarets, the mosque’s interior mesmerizes visitors with its elaborate blue-and-white tiles.

Next, the group visits Hagia Irene, a former Byzantine church that now serves as a museum. This ancient structure, with its impressive architecture and rich history, offers a glimpse into the city’s religious past.

As the group absorbs the serene ambiance of these sites, they gain a deeper appreciation for Istanbul’s diverse cultural and spiritual heritage.

Basilica Cistern and Hippodrome

The group’s journey now takes them to the captivating Basilica Cistern and the historic Hippodrome.

The Basilica Cistern, an underground water reservoir, amazes visitors with its vast, dimly lit space supported by over 300 columns.

The Hippodrome, once the heart of Byzantine Constantinople, now stands as a remnant of its former glory.

Travelers explore the sites, learning about their rich histories and architectural marvels.

The Basilica Cistern’s reflective pool and the Hippodrome’s existing monuments offer a glimpse into the city’s past.

These sites provide a captivating contrast to the grandeur of the previous stops, offering a unique perspective on Istanbul’s diverse heritage.

Grand Bazaar and Hagia Sophia

The tour now continues to the vibrant Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest covered markets.

Visitors can browse through the maze of shops, bargaining for traditional Turkish crafts, carpets, and spices.

After the Grand Bazaar, the tour proceeds to the iconic Hagia Sophia.

Once a Christian church, then a mosque, and now a museum, Hagia Sophia is a magnificent example of Byzantine architecture.

Visitors will be able to admire the stunning interior, including the famous mosaics, before the additional fee to visit the upper galleries after the main saloon closure starting in January 2024.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Opening and Closing Times for the Attractions?

The opening and closing times for the attractions vary. Topkapi Palace and Harem are open from 9am to 5pm. Basilica Cistern operates from 9am to 6:30pm. Hagia Sophia’s hours are 9am to 4:30pm. The Blue Mosque is open during prayer times.

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Historic Sites?

Photography is generally allowed inside the historic sites, but there may be restrictions or additional fees in certain areas. Visitors should check with their guide or on-site signage for specific photography policies and rules.

Are There Any Dress Code Restrictions for Visitors?

Visitors must wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and headscarves when visiting sacred sites like mosques. This dress code helps maintain the sites’ cultural and religious significance.

How Accessible Are the Sites for People With Disabilities?

The tour sites have limited accessibility for people with disabilities. The Basilica Cistern and Hagia Sophia are not wheelchair accessible, though the Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar can be more easily navigated. Visitors should check accessibility requirements before booking.

What Is the Best Time of Day to Visit the Attractions?

The best time to visit the attractions is in the morning, as the crowds are smaller and the temperature is cooler. This allows visitors to explore the sites more comfortably and avoid long lines.

The Sum Up

Istanbul’s historic attractions offer an immersive journey into the city’s captivating past. From the opulent Topkapi Palace to the grand Hagia Sophia, each landmark showcases the city’s rich cultural heritage. With stunning architecture, intricate tile work, and breathtaking mosaics, this tour provides travelers with a comprehensive understanding of Istanbul’s enduring significance as a crossroads of civilizations.