Istanbul’s iconic Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque are must-see attractions for any visitor. This half-day tour provides an engaging way to explore these architectural marvels. Travelers can expect an expert guide to share captivating histories, while enjoying the convenience of hotel pickup and free time at the famed Grand Bazaar. With stunning interiors, intricate tilework, and remarkable histories, this tour promises a memorable cultural experience in the heart of Istanbul.

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Key Points

This half-day morning tour provides an overview of two iconic Istanbul landmarks: Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.
The tour is priced at £54.39 per person, lasts 4 hours, and accommodates 20-25 participants with hotel pickup included.
Highlights include exploring the historic Hagia Sophia, visiting the 17th-century Blue Mosque, and shopping at the Grand Bazaar.
The tour includes entrance fees, an expert guide, and transportation, with gratuities being optional.
Certain restrictions apply, such as accessibility limitations and mosque visit considerations during prayer times and religious holidays.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Istanbul: Half-Day Morning Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks.

Explore Istanbul’s iconic landmarks on the half-day Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque tour.

Priced at £54.39 per person, the 4-hour tour accommodates groups of 20-25 participants, conducted in English.

Pickup is included from European-side city center hotels. Visitors can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.

The tour highlights the historic Hagia Sophia and the magnificent Blue Mosque, as well as the Sultanahmet Square and the Grand Bazaar, allowing ample time for shopping.

Transportation and entrance fees are included, while gratuities are optional.

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Itinerary Highlights

Built in the 4th century and later reconstructed in the 6th century, Hagia Sophia is a must-see highlight of the tour.

This former Byzantine cathedral, later converted to a mosque and now a museum, impresses with its massive dome and intricate mosaics.

Next, the tour explores the 17th-century Blue Mosque, renowned for its exquisite blue Iznik tiles.

Guests then visit Sultanahmet Square, home to the Hippodrome with its Egyptian obelisk and bronze sculpture.

Finally, there’s free time to shop at the legendary Grand Bazaar, a labyrinth of over 4,000 shops, unless it’s a Sunday when the bazaar is closed.

Inclusions

This half-day tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless start and end to the experience.

Entrance fees to the key sites, like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, are covered. An expert guide accompanies the group, providing commentary and insights throughout the journey.

An air-conditioned vehicle transports the group, adding comfort. The tour price also includes VAT.

Though gratuities are optional, they’re a thoughtful way to show appreciation for the guide’s service.

This comprehensive package allows visitors to make the most of their time in Istanbul without worrying about logistics.

Important Information

Although this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, children under 18 can participate with an accompanying adult.

This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, but children under 18 can participate with an accompanying adult.

Visitors will be provided with cover-ups and head scarves for the Blue Mosque visit.

On Fridays, the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque will only be viewed from the outside during prayer times.

During religious holidays, the Spice Market and Grand Bazaar may be closed.

This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, but travelers should be aware of these important considerations to ensure a smooth and successful experience.

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Customer Feedback

Customers have provided mixed reviews for this Istanbul tour, with an overall rating of 3.6 out of 5 based on 26 responses.

While the guide and transportation received decent ratings of 4.1 and 4 respectively, value for money was rated 3.7.

Common feedback includes concerns about the guide’s attentiveness and language barriers. Some visitors felt the guide didn’t provide enough information or context during the tour.

Despite these issues, the tour seems to offer a convenient way to see key sights like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque in a limited time frame.

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Exploring Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia, a colossal architectural marvel, stands as the centerpiece of this Istanbul tour.

A colossal architectural marvel, the Hagia Sophia stands as the centerpiece of this captivating Istanbul tour.

Built in the 4th century and reconstructed in the 6th, this former church-turned-mosque-turned-museum captivates visitors with its massive dome and intricate mosaics.

Guests explore the grand interior, marveling at the interplay of Christian and Islamic influences.

From the lofty galleries, they gaze upon the stunning Byzantine artwork, a testament to the building’s storied past.

The Hagia Sophia’s sheer scale and historical significance make it a must-see during this comprehensive Istanbul experience.

Discovering the Blue Mosque

After marveling at the grandeur of the Hagia Sophia, the tour moves on to explore the captivating Blue Mosque. Designed by a pupil of the famous architect Sinan, the Blue Mosque features exquisite Iznik tiles that cover the interior walls. Visitors are awestruck by the sheer scale and intricate details of this 17th-century architectural masterpiece.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Architecture | Designed with a grand central dome and six minarets |

| Tiles | Over 20,000 handcrafted Iznik tiles in shades of blue |

| Function | Serves as an active mosque, with specific etiquette required |

The tour offers a chance to take in the Blue Mosque’s serene atmosphere and learn about its rich history and cultural significance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Food and Drinks Included During the Tour?

Food and drinks are not included during the tour. The tour package covers the entrance fees, transportation, and guide services. Participants are responsible for their own meals and refreshments.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Hagia Sophia or Blue Mosque?

Unfortunately, visitors can’t purchase souvenirs at the Hagia Sophia or Blue Mosque. However, the tour includes free time at the Grand Bazaar, a sprawling marketplace where you can find a wide variety of Turkish handicrafts and souvenirs to take home.

What Should I Bring With Me on the Tour?

Visitors should bring a hat, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and a light jacket or scarf. Bring some cash for souvenirs and tips. It’s also a good idea to have a portable charger for your phone or camera.

How Much Time Do We Have for Free Exploration?

Guests will have approximately 45 minutes of free time for shopping at the Grand Bazaar, a labyrinth of over 4,000 shops. However, the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays, so visitors would instead explore Nuruosmaniye Street during that time.

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

There’s a dress code for visiting the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. Visitors must cover up their shoulders, knees, and heads. The tour provider supplies cover-ups and head scarves for those who don’t meet the dress code.

The Sum Up

Enjoy Istanbul’s rich history with the Half-Day Morning Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque Tour. Explore two iconic landmarks, the magnificent Hagia Sophia and the stunning Blue Mosque, gaining insights from an expert guide. This tour offers a perfect blend of culture and convenience, providing a memorable experience for visitors to this captivating city.