Join us on this historic trail and enjoy an enriching experience! Our guides are dedicated to helping you gain a deeper understanding of our history, culture, and local life.
Join us on this historic trail and enjoy an enriching experience! Our guides are dedicated to helping you gain a deeper understanding of our history, culture, and local life.
- Hagia Sophia Mosque - Hagia Sophia, meaning Holy Wisdom, is a significant Byzantine edifice in Istanbul and one of the world’s most remarkable monuments. Originally constructed as a Christian church in the 6th century under the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, it later transformed into a mosque, then a museum, and once again a mosque. The structure…
- Hagia Sophia Mosque - Hagia Sophia, meaning Holy Wisdom, is a significant Byzantine edifice in Istanbul and one of the world’s most remarkable monuments. Originally constructed as a Christian church in the 6th century under the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, it later transformed into a mosque, then a museum, and once again a mosque. The structure embodies the region’s religious evolution over the centuries, showcasing Islamic minarets and inscriptions alongside the opulent Christian mosaics.
- Sogukcesme Sokak - This charming cobblestone street, nestled between the Topkapi Palace walls and Hagia Sophia, is named after the Soğuk Çeşme (Cold Fountain) located at its southern end.
- Caferaga Madrasa - Handicrafts Center - This delightful building, hidden in the shadow of Hagia Sophia, was designed by the Ottoman Architect Mimar Sinan at the behest of Cafer Aga, Suleyman the Magnificent’s chief black eunuch. Built in 1560 as a school, it now hosts a cultural organization dedicated to teaching and promoting traditional Turkish handicrafts. The courtyard features the modest Caferaga Medresesi Tea House, where visitors can enjoy a glass of tea or a cup of Turkish coffee.
- Topkapi Palace - Topkapi is renowned for its vibrant history, surpassing most of the world’s museums in colorful tales. Sultans, beautiful concubines, and cunning eunuchs resided and worked here from the 15th to the 19th centuries when it served as the Ottoman Empire’s court. Exploring the palace’s lavish pavilions, jewel-laden Treasury, and expansive Harem offers a captivating insight into their lives.
Please note that Topkapı Palace is closed on Tuesdays. The Basilica Cistern is visited instead.
- Hippodrome - Byzantine emperors relished afternoons at the chariot races, and this rectangular arena next to Sultanahmet Park was their preferred venue. In its prime, it was adorned with obelisks and statues, some of which still stand today.
- Blue Mosque - The mosque’s beautifully curvaceous exterior boasts a cascade of domes and six slender minarets. The interior is adorned with blue Iznik tiles.
- Kapali Carsi - The vibrant and bustling Grand Bazaar is the heart of Istanbul’s Old City and has been for centuries. Initially a small vaulted bedesten (warehouse) commissioned by Mehmet the Conqueror in 1461, it expanded to cover a vast area as lanes between the bedesten, shops, and hans were roofed, forming the sprawling, labyrinthine market that exists today.
Please note that the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays. The Basilica Cistern is visited instead. The Basilica Cistern entrance fee is not included. Your guide will assist you in purchasing tickets. A skip-the-line option is available for the Basilica Cistern.
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Basilica Cistern Museum - Optional Basilica Cistern Visit.
The Topkapı Palace is closed on Tuesdays.
The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.
We will visit the Basilica Cistern on these days instead.
Please note that the Basilica Cistern visit can be added to any daily tour schedule upon request, as the tour is private and customizable.
This underground structure was commissioned by Emperor Justinian and constructed in 532. As the largest surviving Byzantine cistern in Istanbul, it was built using 336 columns, many of which were salvaged from ruined temples and feature intricately carved capitals. Its symmetry and sheer grandeur are truly awe-inspiring.

- Professional licensed guidance during the tour
- Professional licensed guidance during the tour
- Lunch
- All Fees and Taxes
- Lunch
- All Fees and Taxes
- Vehicle - No ( If needed our guests should inform us in advance )
- Vehicle - No ( If needed our guests should inform us in advance )
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.