Private Tour: Istanbul's Ottoman Experience Including Topkapi Palace and Blue Mosque

4 Hours

Mobile Ticket

Hotel Pickup Offered

English

Language Offered

Overview

Marvel at Istanbul's best Ottoman sites during this 4-hour private guided tour of the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. This tour captures the essence of why the Sultanahmet district is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You will learn about the history of Istanbul dating back to its former Ottoman days as Constantinople. Plus, hear old stories about the reign of sultans from your expert guide and admire architecture and ancient relics within each famous attraction.

Private half-day tour of Istanbul's Ottoman landmarks
Explore three historical attractions around Sultanahmet, a UNESCO World Heritage site
Walk around Istanbul's Hippodrome and see the Obelisk of Theodosius
Visit the Blue Mosque and marvel at its colorful Iznik tiles and minarets
Explore Topkapi Palace while learning about the sultans and harems who once called the building home

Inclusions & Exclusions

Departure & Return

What To Expect

Meet your local guide at your Istanbul hotel (European side only) or at a central meeting point and hop into your air-conditioned minivan to begin your private tour of the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. Listen as your guide runs through the 4-hour tour itinerary, but note the order to visit each landmark is subject to change. At last, set off towards the life blood of Istanbul - the Sultanahmet neighborhood. Stroll through this UNESCO World Heritage Site and discover the Hippodrome. Here, learn about day to day Ottoman-life in this extensive arena. Go back in time hundreds of years to feel the heartbeat of this ancient city's political gatherings, sports, and even riots! Next, listen as your guide explains how this area has become fun for both locals and visitors. Perhaps, bust a move for a photo in front of the ancient Obelisk of Theodosius which was brought over from Egypt in 390 AD by the Emperor.Next, wander over to the Blue Mosque and stare up towards the six towering minarets. Then, quietly enter this house of worship and admire the thousands of detailed Iznik tiles that illuminate the dome's walls in a brilliant blue. See this perfect example of Ottoman architecture and learn why Sultan Ahmet, who ordered its construction, was adamant about building a place of worship to contend with the stunning beauty of neighboring Hagia Sophia.After snapping photos and staring into the magnificent dome above, cruise to the final attraction Topkapi Palace. Explore this illustrious palace home to peculiar 15th-century sultans. Then, learn about day to day life of the palaces harems, princes, and eunuch servants. Now that Topkapi Palace has settled down into a fine museum, wander through its exhibits to see royal armor and weapons, ancient artifacts and read tales about the famous people who once resided in Istanbul's most opulent palace.After exiting Topkapi Palace, walk along a tree-laden path with your guide to your minivan. Climb aboard and cruise back to your start point in central Istanbul or to your hotel on the European side.Please note: on Fridays the Blue Mosque cannot be visited due to 2.30pm prayer, instead you will visit Rustem Pasha Mosque.

Private Tour: Istanbul's Ottoman Experience Including Topkapi Palace and Blue Mosque

Inclusions & Exclusions

Departure & Return

What To Expect

Additional Info

Cancellation Policy

Similar tours that might be interesting for you