Istanbul: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Small-Group Tour Small Group Tour in English
ID: GYG204412-318043
Category:
Country: Turkey
Duration:
03:00 hours
Description
Join a small group walking tour of the two most famous monuments in Istanbul: the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia. Enjoy a scenic stroll around Sultanahmet and the Hippodrome as you witness local life with a professional guide.
Check out Istanbul's greatest Islamic monument on this small walking tour. Meet your guide in the Sultanahmet neighborhood, at a hot spot for traditional Turkish delicacies where you can purchase water or snacks. Then let your guide lead you to the Blue Mosque, the most visited monument in Istanbul.
Marvel at this imperial Ottoman Mosque, commissioned by Sultan Ahmet. Witness the evocative power and splendor of its past as you enjoy a comprehensive guided tour of the Blue Mosque and its complimentary buildings with a professional guide. Afterward, enjoy the courtyard for breathtaking views of modern Istanbulites and take a gentle stroll around the neighborhood.
Walk through the Hippodrome, the social and political center of the city, and learn about the significance of the famous obelisks. Visit the Hagia Sophia and witness the most significant site of the Greek Orthodox religion in Istanbul and learn how it was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople.
On this 3-hour tour, you’ll explore the museum with a licensed guide. In the interiors of each building, you’ll see elements of a mosque and a church standing next to each other. Admire the basilica’s stunning dome and minarets, and countless mosaics, paintings, columns, and mosaic gallery. Learn how the impressive İznik tiles were added over time in the Mosque, how the stunning Virgin Mary mosaic was made, and why the Ottomans chose to bury their sultans in the courtyard.
Highlights
- Experience the splendor and charm of Islamic architecture in the Blue Mosque
- Enjoy easy access to the world famous Hagia Sophia
- Discover the history and culture of Ottoman and Byzantine Empires
- Get tips from your guide at the end of the tour to continue exploring Istanbul independently
- See the Hippodrome and learn about its importance in the city's social and political life
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
• The small-group tour has a maximum of 12 participants
• You must remove your shoes before entering both landmarks
• The Blue Mosque is being renovated so some parts of the ceiling might be temporarily covered
The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
You must keep social distance while in vehicles
Masks are required while indoors
You are required to bring and wear a mask
House of Medusa Restaurant in Sultanahmet, Alemdar Mh., Yerebatan Cd. No:32, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 48 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 48 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.
