Istanbul: Guided Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience
ID: GYG335386-597131
Category:
Country: Turkey
Duration:
07:00 hours
Description
Get an in-depth look into what Istanbul is really about. This tour has been designed to introduce you to the real Istanbul, and is an alternative tour to see the many different sides of the city.
Your experience will begin with the ancient Hippodrome, where thousands of spectators were entertained and kept happy by the chariot races. Whilst there you will witness a cistern which was recently discovered in 2010, and you can navigate through the labyrinth of streets and passages that are home to more than 4,000 shops, which is known as the Grand Bazaar.
You will soon take a break to experience traditional Turkish tea or coffee and a popular Turkish pastry called borek, all while enjoying the ancient practice of hookah at a favorite local hangout. Following that you'll visit Istanbul’s largest mosque, titled the Suleymaniye Mosque. It is an Ottoman Imperial mosque located on the Third Hill of Istanbul, and is breathtaking due to both its size and interior beauty.
From the mosque you will visit a Spice Bazaar which is full of colors and the powerful aromas of exotic spices. Istanbul is a city which has a rich religious history, and is now composed of many different religions. Your next stop will be the Church of St. George, which since the 1600s has been the location of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, and is recognized as the spiritual leader of the Eastern Orthodox Religion.
Highlights
- Learn about the Roman Chariot races in the Hippodrome
- Learn how to bargain like a Turk in the Grand Bazaar
- Drink Turkish coffee and learn about your future in a 300-year-old Medresah
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
• This tour is not recommended for people with limited mobility
• This tour will take place rain or shine
• Please not that lunch and transportation are not included
The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
You are required to bring and wear a mask
Please arrive 5 minutes before the activity starts.
Your Guide will be waiting you infront of Pudding Shop.
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.