Private Walking Tour: Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia

Exploring the rich history of Istanbul is an unforgettable experience. This private walking tour takes you on a journey through the city’s iconic landmarks, from the ancient Hippodrome to the stunning Blue Mosque and the magnificent Hagia Sophia. With a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll uncover the cultural heritage and architectural evolution of these remarkable sites. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to learn about the vibrant atmosphere of Istanbul, this tour promises to captivate and leave you eager to discover more.

Key Points

• The private walking tour covers three iconic landmarks in Istanbul: the Hippodrome, the Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia.
• The tour lasts four hours and is limited to 10 participants, providing a personalized experience.
• Although the Blue Mosque’s interior is currently closed for renovations, the tour includes viewing the exterior features.
• Entrance fees to the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia are included in the starting price of $107.47 per person.
• The tour has received positive customer feedback, with an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 8 reviews.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The private walking tour of Istanbul offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks.

Discover Istanbul’s iconic landmarks through a comprehensive private walking tour.

Spanning four hours, the tour takes guests through the Hippodrome, the Blue Mosque, and the Hagia Sophia. Priced from $107.47 per person, the tour is limited to just 10 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Led by an expert local guide, the tour includes entrance fees to all attractions. Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, and the option to reserve now and pay later.

The tour isn’t available on Mondays, so guests should check availability for starting times.

Hippodrome of Constantinople

As the ancient Roman sporting and social center, the Hippodrome of Constantinople stands as an open-air museum, with remnants of its original structure still visible.

Key features include the Obelisk of Theodosius, a 3,500-year-old Egyptian obelisk; the Serpentine Column, a bronze column from the ancient Greek sanctuary of Delphi; and the Fountain of Wilhelm II, a German fountain donated in 1900.

Visitors can explore these historical artifacts and imagine the lively chariot races and events that once took place in this important venue from the Byzantine era.

Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque)

Iconic for its striking blue tiles, the Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultanahmet Mosque, stands as a testament to Ottoman architectural prowess. This mosque features a beautiful courtyard and six towering minarets. However, the interior is currently closed for renovations until June, so visitors will not be able to admire the mosque’s stunning interior details during this time.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Courtyard | The mosque’s expansive courtyard provides a serene setting for visitors. |

| Minarets | Six towering minarets punctuate the mosque’s silhouette, a signature of Ottoman architecture. |

| Renovations | The interior is undergoing renovations, with the closure expected to last until June. |

Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia was formerly the largest church for over 1,000 years, but now serves as a museum.

This architectural marvel features stunning Byzantine mosaics, paintings, and sculptures. Visitors can admire the intricate details and grandeur of this historic structure.

The museum offers a glimpse into the building’s past as both a church and a mosque. Hagia Sophia’s vast interior and impressive design have made it a popular tourist attraction in Istanbul.

Exploring this iconic site provides insights into the city’s rich cultural heritage and the evolution of religious architecture over the centuries.

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Tour Inclusions

The tour includes the services of an expert local guide to lead participants through the key sites.

The guide will provide insight and commentary on the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia. Entrance fees to these historic attractions are also covered.

The tour doesn’t include personal expenses or gratuities, which are at the discretion of the traveler.

With a maximum group size of 10, the tour offers an intimate experience for guests to explore Istanbul’s iconic landmarks.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and reservations can be made without immediate payment.

Important Information

This walking tour isn’t available on Mondays.

Travelers should check the availability for the starting times.

The Blue Mosque’s interior will be closed for renovations until June. This means visitors won’t be able to explore the mosque’s stunning blue tiles and impressive architecture from the inside during this tour.

However, the tour will still visit the Hippodrome and Hagia Sophia.

Participants should expect to see the key external features of the Blue Mosque, like its beautiful courtyard and six towering minarets, as part of the walking itinerary.

Customer Reviews

Customers who’ve experienced this private walking tour of Istanbul have generally provided positive feedback.

According to customer reviews, this private walking tour of Istanbul has received generally positive feedback.

The overall tour rating is 4.4 out of 5 based on 8 reviews.

Key highlights from the customer reviews include:

• Excellent local guide who provided thorough and engaging commentary

• Disappointment over the Blue Mosque’s interior being closed for renovations during the tour

• Appreciation for the tour’s efficient use of time to see the key attractions

• Enjoyment of the small group size, allowing for a more personalized experience

• Recommendation of this tour as a great way to explore Istanbul’s top sights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour operator hasn’t specified a dress code, but visitors should dress modestly when entering religious sites. Covering knees and shoulders is generally recommended to respect local customs.

Can We Take Photos Inside the Hagia Sophia?

Yes, visitors are allowed to take photos inside the Hagia Sophia. However, flash photography is prohibited, and guests should be respectful of the museum’s rules and regulations during their visit.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour Guide?

Yes, there is an option for a private tour guide. The tour overview states that this is a "Private Walking Tour" with a group size limited to 10 participants and the services of an expert local guide included.

Can We Stop for a Traditional Turkish Coffee Break?

The tour doesn’t explicitly include a traditional Turkish coffee break. However, guests could likely request a stop for coffee during the tour, though this would be an additional expense not covered in the tour price.

How Physically Demanding Is the Walking Tour?

The walking tour is moderately demanding, with several stops requiring some walking and stair climbing. Guests should be able to comfortably walk for extended periods. Those with mobility concerns may find the tour challenging.

The Sum Up

This private walking tour of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the city’s rich history and architecture. From the ancient Hippodrome to the stunning Blue Mosque and the magnificent Hagia Sophia, the tour provides a comprehensive understanding of Istanbul’s diverse cultural heritage, guided by a knowledgeable local expert. This unforgettable journey is a must-do for anyone seeking to fully appreciate the wonders of this remarkable city.

You can check availability for your dates here: