Meeting Point

Your hotel if it's centrally located.

Reaching to old city, first stop Hagia Sophia

Once we reach the Old City, we'll explore on foot since all the major sites are very close to one another. I usually prefer to start with Hagia Sophia, though we may adjust the order depending on the crowds. With nearly 1,500 years of history, it is one of the oldest buildings in the city, making it the ideal first stop. Originally built by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian as the largest church in the world and later converted into a mosque by Ottoman Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, it never fails to amaze visitors with its thousand-year-old mosaics and even more ancient architectural features.

Basilica Cistern

Just a minute's walk from the exit of Hagia Sophia awaits another nearly 1,500-year-old marvel. A bit shy this time, it hides beneath the surface: the Basilica Cistern, an imperial water reservoir and one of the many ancient cisterns of Old Constantinople. Home to 336 columns and two Medusa heads—all of which are even older than the structure itself—it offers the chance to capture spectacular photos and feel its mysterious atmosphere deep in your bones.

Hippodrome

As the social and sporting heart of Old Constantinople, the Hippodrome was where nearly a hundred thousand people gathered weekly to watch theater performances, gladiator fights, dance shows, and—most importantly—thrilling chariot races. Although the original seating stands no longer exist, the ancient monuments standing in the center more than make up for it. Learning the stories behind these monuments, some of which are even older than the city itself, will help you truly appreciate the complex history of Istanbul and the vibrant culture still alive in its streets.

Lunch or snack time

Of course, a day full of history and culture wouldn't be complete without tasting some local food. Depending on our appetite and mood, we can stop for a proper lunch at an authentic local spot, or simply relax with Turkish tea, coffee, and traditional desserts.

Blue Mosque

A stunning example of Ottoman architecture that blends elegance with impressive craftsmanship, the Blue Mosque boasts 400 years of history and welcomes us with vibrant blue tiles as old as the structure itself. Here, we'll discuss Islam and how it is practiced in daily Turkish life, while also covering fascinating details about daily prayers, fasting, and the extraordinary monuments that faith can inspire people to create.

Grand Bazaar

Back to home

After a fulfilling day of exploring, tasting, and learning, it's time to wrap up our tour and make our way back to your hotel.

Ending Point

We say our goodbyes at the hotel.