Istanbul, Turkey
MORE INFORMATION
Highlights
Gülhane, Hippodrome of Constantinople (Sultanahmet Square)
Delve into the architectural masterpiece of the East Roman (Byzantine) World, the mighty Hagia Sophia
Visit the majestic Topkapı Palace, the residential and administrative center of 24 Ottoman Emperors, covering 125 acres
Description
Discover the historical, architectural, religious, and political landmarks of Istanbul in this tour. Your journey starts with a ferry ride across the Bosphorus, followed by a walk through Sirkeci Train Station, Gülhane Gardens, and the Hippodrome of Constantinople, leading to Hagia Sophia. As the largest structure on earth for nine centuries, the 56-meter-high central dome of Hagia Sophia served Christianity for 916 years, followed by 481 years of Islamic Era. The tour concludes with a visit to Topkapı Palace, which was once the center of the Ottoman Empire and now houses priceless collections from the classical Ottoman Era.
Who This Experience Is Good For
This experience is perfect for history lovers and those interested in East Roman (Byzantine) and Ottoman history.
Meet Our Local Host
Aydın Kudu is a distinguished tour guide and a travel expert, photographer and documentary film maker. He is National Geographic’s local expert. When writers, photographers or filmmakers work in Turkey he guides them, interpreting Turkey’s culture, history and language. He has been an active tourist guide in all over Turkey since 1987.
Itinerary
8:00 AM: Meet at Kadıköy Pier for Eminönü
Ferry ride to Eminonü
Sirkeci Train Station, Gülhane Gardens, and The Hippodrome
Hagia Sophia
Opkapı Palace
3.00 PM: End of the tour - Return to Kadıköy
What’s Included
Local guide
Topkapı museum entry fee
What’s Not Included
Ferry fare / Transportation
Harem entrance fee
Anything not mentioned above
Know Before You Go
Minimum Needed: 6 people
Maximum Capacity: N/A
Booking Deadline: 4 days before start date
Weather Dependent: No
Difficulty Level: Easy
Special Clothing Required: Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, as well as a light backpack with water and snacks
Women should cover their heads when entering Hagia Sophia, and a shawl could be handy to cover the shoulders as well
Moderate clothing for both men and women is required for Hagia Sophia.
Special Dietary Restrictions: Bring water and snacks
Extra Cash: Needed for tipping (Not mandatory: you liked the service Tip! You did not? Is ok not to Tip. 10% is good), additional services & souvenirs.
Ground Transportation: We will meet at the pier and go there by ferry. For the ferry fare, you have to load money on the transportation cards.
Additional Information: N/A
Liabilities: The liability for any injury, loss, or damage incurred by participants is not assumed by Remote Year or its affiliates.