Istanbul: Hagia Sofia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar Tour

Exploring the rich cultural heritage of Istanbul is a must-do for any traveler. This guided tour takes visitors on a captivating 3-hour journey, showcasing the city’s iconic landmarks – from the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia to the breathtaking Blue Mosque adorned with intricate tiles. Along the way, a live guide provides insightful commentary, bringing the history and significance of these sites to life. But the tour’s highlights don’t end there, as the vibrant Grand Bazaar, the world’s largest souk, awaits to immerse visitors in the bustling heart of Istanbul’s commercial past.

Key Points

• This 3-hour guided tour in English and Spanish allows visitors to explore the architectural marvels of Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, entry tickets, and live commentary by a guide, providing a comprehensive experience.
• Visitors can take advantage of the "reserve now, pay later" option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and appropriate attire and a valid ID are required.
• The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays, and alternative stores will be visited instead.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Istanbul: Hagia Sofia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar Tour is a 3-hour guided excursion that takes visitors to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Priced from £82 per person, the tour is available in English and Spanish. Pickup is included from select locations in Taksim Square, Fatih, and Istanbul.

The tour offers a convenient reserve now, pay later option, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Highlights include the architectural marvel of Hagia Sophia, the magnificent Blue Mosque, the historical Hippodrome, and the bustling Grand Bazaar, the largest souk in the world.

Itinerary Highlights

After being picked up from the designated locations, the tour begins with a visit to the Hagia Sophia, a 6th-century architectural marvel that was originally constructed as a basilica.

Next, the group explores the Blue Mosque, known for its blue İznik tiles and six minarets, built for Sultan Ahmet.

The tour then moves to the Byzantine Hippodrome, the site of historical events, featuring the Serpentine Column, Obelisk of Theodosius, and German Fountain of Wilhelm II.

The Byzantine Hippodrome, a historical site, boasts the Serpentine Column, Obelisk of Theodosius, and German Fountain of Wilhelm II.

Finally, the tour culminates with an experience at the Grand Bazaar, the largest souk in the world, offering a vast array of antiques, jewelry, carpets, and more.

Tour Inclusions

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation during the tour, a live guide, and entry tickets to the sites.

You won’t have to worry about navigating the city or purchasing tickets – it’s all handled for you. The live guide will provide insightful commentary and historical context as you explore the iconic Hagia Sophia, the magnificent Blue Mosque, and the bustling Grand Bazaar.

Tips are optional, so you can focus on enjoying the sights and experiences. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour offers a hassle-free way to discover Istanbul’s top attractions.

Important Information

Although not suitable for wheelchair users, this tour offers a range of important information to consider. Guests should bring their passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and appropriate clothing, as smoking is prohibited in the vehicle. The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays, so alternative stores will be visited instead. To make the most of the tour, here are a few key details:

| Information | Details |

| — | — |

| Accessibility | Not suitable for wheelchair users |

| Attire | Comfortable shoes and appropriate clothing |

| Restrictions | No smoking allowed in the vehicle |

| Grand Bazaar | Closed on Sundays, alternative stores visited |

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Booking Details

Travelers can check availability for the Istanbul: Hagia Sofia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar Tour on the tour provider’s website.

The booking process is flexible, with no upfront payment required. Visitors can reserve their spot and pay later.

The tour has multiple departure times available, so travelers can choose the option that best fits their schedule.

Booking the tour is simple and straightforward, allowing visitors to secure their place on this popular excursion with ease.

Whether planning a trip to Istanbul or already there, this tour is a convenient way to explore the city’s iconic landmarks.

Exploring Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia stands as an architectural marvel, dating back to the 6th century.

Originally built as a basilica, this former Byzantine church and Ottoman mosque is now a museum showcasing its stunning Byzantine mosaics and towering domed interior.

Visitors can marvel at the grand scale and intricate details of this historic structure.

The Hagia Sophia’s religious heritage is reflected in its blend of Christian and Islamic elements, making it a unique and captivating site to explore.

With its rich history and impressive design, the Hagia Sophia is a must-see highlight of the Istanbul tour.

Visiting the Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar

After visiting the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, the tour continues to the iconic Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque.

Its six minarets and stunning blue İznik tiles make it one of Istanbul’s most recognizable landmarks. Guests will have the opportunity to explore the mosque’s interior and learn about its history and architectural significance.

Next, the tour visits the Grand Bazaar, the largest covered market in the world.

With over 4,000 shops, it’s a shopper’s paradise, offering a vast array of antiques, jewelry, carpets, and more. Guests can haggle with vendors and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this historic marketplace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos Inside the Mosques?

Photography is generally allowed inside the mosques, but visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting the worshippers. Some areas may have restrictions, so it’s best to follow the guidance of the tour guide or local staff.

Is English the Only Language Available for the Tour?

The tour is available in both English and Spanish. Visitors won’t be limited to just English during the tour, as the live guide can provide commentary in either language to accommodate different language preferences.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Included Meals?

The tour doesn’t include any meals, so there aren’t any dietary restrictions. Participants should bring their own snacks and refreshments as needed during the 3-hour walking tour.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Visit Additional Sites?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to visit additional sites. However, this may incur an extra charge and require prior coordination with the tour operator. Travelers should inquire about the availability and cost of customizing the tour.

How Do I Get to the Meeting Point if I’m Not Staying at a Hotel?

If you’re not staying at a hotel, you can get to the meeting point by taking public transportation like the metro, bus, or taxi. The tour provider offers pickup from designated locations like Taksim Square and Fatih, so you can easily access the starting point.

The Sum Up

This captivating 3-hour tour of Istanbul’s iconic sights is a must-do for any visitor. Explore the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar with insightful commentary from a live guide. Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, included entry tickets, and flexible booking make this an unforgettable and hassle-free experience in the cultural heart of Turkey.

You can check availability for your dates here: