Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Hippodrome Square
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Hassle-free
Cancellation
4 hours (approx.)
Small Group Tour
Moderate
Overview
This popular half-day tour is ideal for cruise visitors who wish to see the main sights of Istanbul within a limited time.
The tour will leave the cruise port and head towards the Hagia Sophia which is located in the heart of Istanbul. Once a church then later a mosque, it holds some of the findings from the Byzantium and Ottoman empires. Stand and admire the beauty of the architecture as your guide gives you commentary on this beautiful building and its history. Hagia Sophia was chosen as a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1985.
Please note: The Hagia Sophia is closed on Mondays and, should your tour date fall on a Monday, it will be replaced in the itinerary by a visit to the ancient Basilica Cistern or Sunken Palace. This magnificent site is the largest in Istanbul and consists of two square buildings which are side by side. The first square is an open courtyard surrounded by a colonnade and the second is the mosque itself.
The tour will then continue to the Blue Mosque, probably Istanbul's famous landmark and one of the most visited mosques in the city. This magnificent site is the largest in Istanbul and consists of two square buildings which are side by side. The first square is an open courtyard surrounded by a colonnade and the second is the mosque itself, which is capped in domes. Your guide will be with you throughout the inside visit and will be on hand for any questions you may have.
After spending a little time at the Blue Mosque we will then head toward the acclaimed Hippodrome Square. This was once an ancient race track where the grand chariots and athletic competitions were held. Within the Square, there are three great monuments; the Egyptian Obelisk (brought to Istanbul in the 4th Century), the Serpentines Column and the Column of Constantine. Your guide will be giving you the full history of these fascinating monuments during the tour.
Finally, we will continue to the Grand Bazaar. This is one of the largest covered markets in the world with 60 streets and over 5000 stalls and shops. Famous for the wide selection of souvenirs and of course the haggling on prices! The Bazaar has been an important trading center for Istanbul since 1461, in 1894 it went through a major restoration after the earthquake.
The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays - if your tour date falls on a Sunday, free time will be given for shopping on Nuru Osmaniye Street or in Arasta Bazaar
What's Included
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Cruise Port Pick-up
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Air-Conditioned Transportation
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Professional English Speaking Guide
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Entrance Fees to Hagia Sophia
Considerations
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Food and drinks are not included
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Bring cash and/or credit card for any additional purchases on the day
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Gratuities/Tips are not included in your tour, if you would like to leave a tip, please bring cash
Special Instructions
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Wear comfortable footwear, as there is a lot of walking involved in this tour on uneven and cobblestone surfaces. There are also steps and inclines.
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Shoes are not permitted inside the Mosque, as the Mosque is carpeted. A plastic bag will be given to you that you can put your shoes in and carry with you.
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Men and women cannot enter the Mosque with shorts or sleeveless shirts. Men can wear long trousers and a sleeved shirt. Women may wear slacks or a dress or blouse and skirt (at least below the knees), preferably with elbow-length or longer sleeves (no bare shoulders or upper arms). Women should cover their head with a scarf. No need to cover the face, the covering is meant to hide your hair only. If your dress doesn't match these requirements, Mosque attendants will provide you with robes and/or scarves to wear during your visit (this is free of charge).
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During peak season, this region may experience very high temperatures. Please make sure to dress accordingly and hydrate often.
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup and Dropoff at the Cruise Port Included.
Book Now
Please select a date and time for this tour to continue.
Price Info
Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Hippodrome Square
Per Adult
USD $ 100.00
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