Istanbul: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Cistern & Bazaar Tour

Istanbul’s iconic landmarks are a must-see for any visitor. The "Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Cistern & Bazaar Tour" offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the city’s rich history and culture. From the grand Hagia Sophia to the stunning Blue Mosque, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through some of Istanbul’s most renowned architectural marvels. But the adventure doesn’t end there – explore the mysterious Basilica Cistern and lose yourself in the vibrant Grand Bazaar. Where will this tour take you?

Key Points

• This 5-hour guided tour covers Istanbul’s top attractions, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, and the Grand Bazaar.
• The tour price of $36 per person includes an English-speaking guide, entrance tickets, headsets, and a hassle-free lunch.
• Highlights of the tour include admiring the blue Iznik tiles of the Blue Mosque and the mesmerizing dome of Hagia Sophia.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with heart problems, or those with mobility impairments, and a dress code is required.
• With an overall rating of 4.8/5 from 143 reviews, the tour offers excellent value for money and an engaging exploration of Istanbul’s iconic sights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Istanbul: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Cistern & Bazaar tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s top attractions for just $36.00 per person.

The Istanbul: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Cistern & Bazaar tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s top attractions for just $36.00 per person.

This 5-hour adventure covers the iconic Blue Mosque, the historic Hagia Sophia, the captivating Basilica Cistern, and the vibrant Grand Bazaar.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours before and the option to reserve now and pay later, it’s a convenient and flexible way to experience Istanbul’s highlights.

The tour includes an English-speaking guide, entrance tickets, headsets, and even lunch, making it a great value for money.

Itinerary Highlights

Visitors first marvel at the Blue Mosque‘s stunning blue Iznik tiles, six towering minarets, and the captivating blend of Islamic and Byzantine architecture.

Next, they explore the historic Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece that has served as both a church and a mosque. Its mesmerizing dome and intricate mosaics captivate visitors.

Finally, they descend into the eerie atmosphere of the Basilica Cistern, the underground reservoir from the Roman period, known for its mysterious Medusa heads.

The tour also includes a visit to the vibrant Grand Bazaar, where visitors can browse thousands of shops selling spices, textiles, jewelry, and carpets.

Tour Inclusions

This Istanbul tour package includes an English-speaking guide to provide insights throughout the journey.

The guide will lead you through the iconic Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, explaining their architectural wonders and historical significance.

Entrance tickets to both the Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern are included, allowing you to skip the lines.

You’ll also receive headsets if the group size exceeds 15 participants, ensuring you can hear the guide clearly.

The tour includes lunch, and tips are covered, making it a hassle-free experience.

With these inclusions, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive exploration of Istanbul’s top attractions.

Accessibility and Restrictions

Although this tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with heart problems, or those with mobility impairments, most travelers can participate.

To ensure a comfortable experience, women must wear headscarves when visiting the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque.

Plus, participants should bring:

1. Long pants to cover their legs.

2. Cash for the entrance fees to the Basilica Cistern (1300 TRY per person) and Hagia Sophia (1300 TRY per person).

3. An open mind to fully enjoy the captivating history and architecture of these iconic Istanbul landmarks.

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Customer Reviews

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised this Istanbul tour, awarding it an impressive 4.8/5 rating based on 143 reviews.

Guests highlight the tour’s excellent value for money and the knowledgeable, engaging guides. Specific mention goes to tour guide Oz, who receives praise for his storytelling abilities and efficiency in managing skip-the-line tickets.

Reviewers appreciate the comprehensive itinerary, which allows them to experience the city’s top sights like the iconic Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, and vibrant Grand Bazaar.

Tour Highlights: Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia stands as a remarkable jewel in Istanbul’s crown, captivating visitors with its mesmerizing blend of Byzantine and Islamic architectural elements.

This architectural masterpiece boasts:

1. A colossal 56-meter-wide central dome that dominates the skyline, an engineering marvel of the 6th century.

2. Stunning mosaics that adorn the interior walls, offering a glimpse into the building’s illustrious past as a church and mosque.

3. The opportunity to witness the seamless integration of Christian and Islamic influences, making Hagia Sophia a symbolic testament to Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage.

Tour Highlights: Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque stands as an iconic landmark in Istanbul, captivating visitors with its stunning architectural design and rich history.

Its six graceful minarets and shimmering blue Iznik tiles create a mesmerizing blend of Islamic and Byzantine influences.

Visitors can marvel at the mosque’s impressive scale and intricate details, including the stunning mihrab, a niche indicating the direction of Mecca.

With its serene atmosphere and impressive acoustics, the Blue Mosque offers a truly immersive cultural experience, allowing guests to step back in time and gain a deeper understanding of Istanbul’s profound religious heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photographs Inside the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque?

Yes, you can take photographs inside the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, but you’ll need to follow certain guidelines. Avoid flash photography and be respectful of the religious nature of these sites.

Is There a Dress Code for Visiting the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque?

There’s a dress code for visiting the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. Women must wear headscarves, and both men and women should cover their legs and shoulders. Bringing long pants and a shawl is recommended.

How Much Time Should I Allocate for Each Attraction on the Tour?

The tour allots around 1-1.5 hours for each major attraction – the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Basilica Cistern. Visitors should plan to spend 15-30 minutes exploring the Grand Bazaar, depending on their interest in shopping.

Are There Any Additional Costs or Fees Not Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price doesn’t cover the entrance fees to the Basilica Cistern (1300 TRY per person) and Hagia Sophia (1300 TRY per person), which visitors must pay in cash upon arrival. There are no other additional costs.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour or Add Additional Activities?

There’s no option to extend the tour or add activities, but travelers can explore the attractions further on their own after the guided tour ends. Any additional activities would require booking a separate tour.

The Sum Up

This tour offers an immersive exploration of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks. Visitors will be captivated by the grandeur of Hagia Sophia and the stunning Blue Mosque, while the atmospheric Basilica Cistern and vibrant Grand Bazaar provide a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture. With an expert guide, convenient inclusions, and skip-the-line access, this tour ensures an unforgettable experience for those seeking to discover the essence of Istanbul.

You can check availability for your dates here: