Istanbul Old City: Basilica Cistern – Blue Mosque – Grand Bazaar
Why we love it?
The Istanbul Old City tour offers a three-hour exploration of some of the city's most iconic historical sites, including the Basilica Cistern, the Blue Mosque, and the Hippodrome. Ideal for history enthusiasts and first-time visitors alike, this small group experience provides an intimate setting guided by a professional who shares insights into the rich cultural heritage of Istanbul. What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to discover the hidden wonders of the Basilica Cistern, an underground marvel, alongside the architectural beauty of the Blue Mosque and the vibrant atmosphere of the Hippodrome, making it a comprehensive introduction to Istanbul's storied past.
Inclusions
- Small Group
- Professional Guide
- Basilica Cistern entry ticket (*if all-inclusive option selected)
Exclusions
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Gratuities
- Basilica Cistern
Itinerary
Basilica Cistern
The largest of several hundred ancient cisterns that lie beneath the city of Istanbul (formerly Constantinople) was built in the 6th century during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. Used to supply water to its inhabitants in the ancient past which was carried from 20 km away via aqueducts. Two medusa heads, lying upside down and sideway under two columns are the focal points.
Sultanahmet Mosque ( Blue Mosque )
A popular tourist site, sits next to the Hagia Sophia, and continues to function as a mosque today. The Blue Mosque, as it is popularly known, was constructed between 1609 and 1616 during the rule of Ahmed I. Hand-painted blue tiles adorn the mosque’s interior walls. The Sultan Ahmed Mosque has five main domes, six minarets, and eight secondary domes with traditional Ottoman architecture and is considered to be the last great mosque of the classical period.
Hippodrome
Hippodrome of Byzantine for chariot races
Hagia Sophia Mosque (Pass by)
The Church of Divine Wisdom, a fifteen hundred years old splendid monument, is a must see in Istanbul, built to be the world’s largest place of worship by Emperor Justinian in 532 AD. First a Greek Orthodox Patriarchal Basilica, later an imperial mosque and now a museum. The lofty interior, stunning surviving mosaics and the massive dome, which seems to float unsupported and gives the church its amazing sense of space. An unforgettable experience awaiting you.
Sultanahmet Square
This beautiful square and a great place to make a stop, relax and take photos of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.
Grand Bazaar
Istanbul's Grand Bazaar is high on most tourists' itineraries, and for a good reason. This enormous site is the largest covered market in the world with 61 covered streets and over 4,000 shops on a total area of 30,700 m², attracting between 250,000 and 400,000 visitors daily...
*️⃣↘️
* Seen from outside / Pass by
Please Note
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Not stroller accessible
- Not suitable for pets
- Infant seats unavailable
- Modest clothing should be preferred when visiting the Sultanahmet Blue Mosque. Shorts for men or women should be below the knee. Women cover their heads and exposed shoulders with a scarf or shawl, skirt should be below the knee.
- It may be challenging to do the tour with a stroller, not recommended.
- Grand Bazaar is closed on Sunday
- It is a walking tour, so there is a moderate amount of walking involved
- IF ALL INCLUSIVE OPTION IS NOT SELECTED: Entrance to Basilica Cistern (900TL per person) is not included in the tour price. Once you pay your entrance fee to your tour guide, you will have the privilege of skipping the ticket queue. You can pay the tour guide preferably cash in TRY (or in equivalent to USD or EURO).
- ⚠️ Please arrive at least 5 minutes before the scheduled start time, as finding a taxi and navigating traffic can sometimes be challenging. The tour will begin promptly, as it is a shared experience with other participants
Know Before You Go
- Public transportation nearby
- Infants must sit on laps
Cancellation Policy
Fully refundable until 1 day before start
Non-refundable after 1 day before start
