Half Day Afternoon Old City Sultananahmet Tour SL-11
Overview
About
Half-day afternoon tour of the Old City, Sultanahmet.
What you'll do
Begin with a delicious Turkish lunch, followed by visits to iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia and the ancient Hippodrome.
Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Spice Bazaar before embarking on a relaxing two-hour Bosphorus cruise, where you'll witness the beauty of Istanbul from the water, sailing between Europe and Asia.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop off, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, this tour provides rich historical context and cultural insights, making it ideal for those who want to explore the city's highlights without spending a full day.
Perfect for first-time visitors or anyone looking to combine history, local flavor, and breathtaking views in one afternoon.
Meeting and pickup
What is included?
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Near public transportation
- Infants must sit on laps
What is not included?
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Most travelers can participate
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 25 travelers
Meet your host
Itinerary
Istanbul Full-day Tours Itinerary (2026 Guide) – What You'll See & Do
Explore the full itinerary for Half Day Afternoon Old City Sultananahmet Tour SL-11 in Istanbul, Turkey. This full-day tours experience includes 8 stops over 1 day. Duration: 7 hours. Activity level: Extreme.
Here is the starting point
Istanbul
- Hotel Pick-up: We pick you up from your hotel in a comfortable vehicle.
- Lunch Stop: Your first stop is a traditional restaurant where you’ll experience the rich flavors of Turkish cuisine.
- Turkish Kebab: Enjoy the authentic taste of a perfectly grilled Turkish kebab, prepared by master chefs.
- Baklava Delight: End your meal with a delicious serving of baklava, one of the most famous desserts of the Ottoman era.
Ayasofya Camii
- Hagia Sophia Mosque – A Timeless Masterpiece
- Hagia Sophia, originally built in 537 AD as a Byzantine cathedral, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. It served as a church for nearly 1,000 years before being converted into a mosque in 1453 by the Ottoman Empire. In 1935, it became a museum, and in 2020, it was reopened as a mosque.
- With its breathtaking dome, stunning mosaics, and rich history, Hagia Sophia stands as a symbol of Istanbul’s diverse cultural heritage. Visiting this architectural wonder offers a unique journey through centuries of history, faith, and art.
Hippodrome
- Hippodrome of Constantinople – The Heart of Ancient Races
- The Hippodrome, also known as Sultanahmet Square, was the social and sporting center of Constantinople during the Byzantine Empire. Built in the 3rd century AD and expanded by Emperor Constantine I in the 4th century, it hosted chariot races, political events, and grand celebrations.
- Today, remnants of its glorious past, such as the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpent Column, and the German Fountain, can still be seen in Sultanahmet Square, making it a must-visit historical site in Istanbul.
Blue Mosque
- Sultanahmet Mosque – The Blue Mosque
- Built between 1609 and 1616 by Sultan Ahmed I, the Sultanahmet Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, is one of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks. It is renowned for its stunning blue İznik tiles, grand dome, and six elegant minarets.
- Located in the heart of the historic district, the mosque continues to serve as a place of worship while captivating visitors with its breathtaking architecture and spiritual atmosphere.
Misir Carsisi (Spice Market)
Spice Bazaar – A Fragrant Journey Through History The Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı), built in the 17th century during the Ottoman era, is one of Istanbul’s most vibrant and historic markets. Located in the Eminönü district, it has been a hub for exotic spices, dried fruits, nuts, Turkish delights, and aromatic teas for centuries. As you wander through its lively corridors, you’ll be enchanted by the rich scents of saffron, cinnamon, and sumac. The bazaar is not only a paradise for food lovers but also a place to experience the authentic atmosphere of Istanbul’s trading heritage.
Boğaz Turu
Topkapı Palace
Topkapı Palace was built in 1478 by Sultan Mehmed II (Mehmed the Conqueror) and served as the main residence and administrative center of the Ottoman Empire for over 400 years. The palace complex includes royal courtyards, sacred relics, imperial treasures, and exquisite Chinese porcelains. In 1924, it was converted into a museum and is now one of Istanbul’s most iconic historical landmarks.
Istanbul
At the end of the tour, we comfortably drive you back to your hotel, ensuring a relaxing and hassle-free return.
This concludes the tour.
