Activity description
Visit the "Sultan Ahmet Center", the heart of the "Old City" from where the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires were ruled.
Hagia Sophia, the Church of Divine Wisdom, one of the greatest architectural wonders, built as a basilica in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian.
Blue Mosque, opposite Hagia Sophia, famous for its blue Iznik tiles and the only one with 6 minarets, built in the name of Sultan Ahmet.
The Hippodrome, the center of sporting events (chariot racing, athletics) and political activities in the ancient city, features the Serpentine Column, the Obelisk of Theodosius, and the German Fountain of William II.
Grand Covered Bazaar, the most attractive shopping center and the largest souk in the world, with approximately 4,000 shops selling antiques, jewelry, gold, carpets, leather goods, and souvenirs. (Artistic demonstration of handmade Turkish carpets upon request)
Lunch at a Turkish restaurant.
Topkap Palace?, the residence of the Ottoman sultans, displays the imperial treasury, sacred Islamic relics of the Prophet Muhammad, a kitchen, Chinese porcelain, weapons, a calligraphy section, and more. Live guide commentary is not permitted in the special sections. (The harem is not included in the program.)
Hagia Irene, located in the outer courtyard of Topkapı Palace, is the oldest church in the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empire. It was also the second largest church in Istanbul, after Hagia Sophia. Hagia Irene, a typical Byzantine structure in its materials and architecture, was built on the site of an earlier temple in 330.
Tombs of Sultans, there are five tombs of Ottoman Sultans in the Hagia Sophia cemetery.
The ceramic panels are the most beautiful examples from the 16th century, with purple, red, green, and blue floral motifs. The princes' robes and a small piece of the Kaaba's roof are displayed in the sarcophagi.
Notes:
Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia - visited from outside on Friday mornings until 1:00 pm because of the midday prayer.
Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays and the entire tour is replaced by the Patriarchate in Fener, Church of Panagia of Blachernae, St. Savior in Chora, Dungeons of Anemas and Tekfur Palace (from outside).
