Istanbul, the captivating city that straddles Europe and Asia, boasts a rich cultural tapestry. The Full Day Hagia Sophia-Hippodrome-Iron Church-Balat&Boat Tour invites visitors to enjoy this tapestry, exploring iconic landmarks and scenic waterways. From the breathtaking Hagia Sophia to the serene Sultanahmet Mosque, this comprehensive tour promises a profound understanding of Istanbul’s diverse heritage. But the real question is, what secrets will this journey unveil?
Key Points
- This full-day tour in Istanbul showcases iconic landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia Museum, Sultanahmet Mosque, Hippodrome, Iron Church, and a scenic Bosphorus boat trip with lunch.
- The tour offers a comprehensive experience, lasting 10 hours, with hotel pick-up and drop-off, priced from Kč 2,589 per person with up to 10% savings.
- Visitors can explore the architectural grandeur and mosaics of the Hagia Sophia Museum, a former cathedral and mosque now serving as a museum.
- The Sultanahmet Mosque, known as the Blue Mosque, features six towering minarets and an interior adorned with exquisite blue İznik tiles.
- The Iron Church, or St. Stephen Bulgarian Church, is a unique architectural marvel with a striking red-and-white facade and intricate woodcarvings.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Hagia Sophia tour offers a full-day experience that includes visits to iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque), Hippodrome, Iron Church, and the colorful Balat neighborhood.
Priced from Kč 2,589 per person, the tour provides significant savings of up to 10% compared to the standard rate. Lasting 10 hours, the tour includes hotel pick-up, drop-off, and a scenic Bosphorus boat trip with lunch.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and travelers can reserve their spot with no upfront payment. With professional guides available in English and Russian, the tour promises an informative and memorable experience.
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Itinerary Highlights
Visitors can explore iconic landmarks across Istanbul, including the Hagia Sophia Museum, where they’ll marvel at its architectural grandeur and stunning mosaics.
The tour also features the Sultanahmet Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, with its six minarets and exquisite blue İznik tiles.
The historic Hippodrome is another highlight, where travelers can walk through the ancient center and view monuments like the Serpent Column and the Obelisk of Theodosius.
The itinerary also includes:
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The Iron Church (St. Stephen Bulgarian Church), known for its unique construction and significance to the Bulgarian community.
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The Balat neighborhood, where visitors can stroll through colorful streets and learn about the area’s diverse Jewish, Greek, and Armenian heritage.
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A scenic Bosphorus boat trip with a delicious local Turkish lunch served on board.
Hagia Sophia Museum
Hagia Sophia Museum stands as an iconic architectural marvel, a testament to the city’s rich history.
Originally constructed as an Orthodox Christian cathedral, it later became a mosque and is now a museum. Visitors are captivated by its grandeur, from the impressive dome soaring 180 feet above to the stunning Byzantine mosaics that adorn its walls.
The museum offers a glimpse into Istanbul’s evolution, showcasing the interplay of Christian and Islamic influences. Guests can explore the building’s intricate details and learn about its historical significance, seeing the city’s cultural tapestry.
Sultanahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque)
After exploring the grandeur of Hagia Sophia, the tour continues to the renowned Sultanahmet Mosque, commonly known as the Blue Mosque.
This iconic structure features:
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Six towering minarets, a unique design element that sets it apart from other mosques.
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Exquisite blue İznik tiles that adorn the interior, giving the mosque its distinctive name.
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A magnificent interior with intricate calligraphic panels, stained glass windows, and a grand central dome.
Visitors are captivated by the mosque’s architectural splendor and the serene atmosphere that permeates the space.
More Great Tours NearbyHippodrome
As the tour moves on, the Hippodrome takes center stage. This historic site was once the heart of Constantinople, hosting chariot races and other spectacles. Visitors can walk through the ancient grounds, catching glimpses of the Serpent Column and the Obelisk of Theodosius.
| Feature | Description |
| — | — |
| Serpent Column | A bronze column brought from Delphi, Greece |
| Obelisk of Theodosius | An ancient Egyptian obelisk erected in the 4th century |
| Chariot Races | Thrilling competitions that took place in the Hippodrome |
| Historic Significance | The site of many important events in the Byzantine Empire |
| Architectural Remnants | Visitors can explore the remaining structures and monuments |
Iron Church (St. Stephen Bulgarian Church)
The Iron Church, also known as the St. Stephen Bulgarian Church, is a unique architectural marvel. This brick-built Orthodox church stands out with its striking red-and-white facade and distinctive onion domes.
Key features include:
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Exceptional construction: The church was built entirely without the use of nails, relying on an ingenious wooden dowel system.
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Vibrant history: Serving the Bulgarian community, the church has witnessed significant events and played a crucial role in the country’s cultural heritage.
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Mesmerizing interior: The interior boasts intricate woodcarvings, ornate chandeliers, and stunning frescoes that captivate visitors.
Balat Neighborhood
Balat Neighborhood, nestled along the Golden Horn, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into Istanbul’s multicultural tapestry.
Once home to Jewish, Greek, and Armenian communities, the area’s vibrant streets are lined with colorful houses, historic synagogues, and local shops.
Visitors can stroll through the lively markets, admire the beautifully restored facades, and learn about the neighborhood’s rich cultural heritage.
The guides provide insight into the area’s history and point out notable landmarks, enabling travelers to gain a deeper understanding of Balat’s unique identity within the larger context of Istanbul.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Boat Tour Included in the Ticket Price?
Yes, the boat tour is included in the ticket price. The tour package covers all the activities, including a scenic Bosphorus boat trip with a delicious lunch served onboard.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The tour does not specify a maximum group size. However, it is described as a small-group tour, suggesting an intimate experience with a personalized approach. The group size is likely capped at a reasonable number to ensure a quality tour for all participants.
Can I Book Private Transportation to the Starting Point?
The tour operator offers private transportation to the starting point for an additional fee. Customers can book this service when making their reservation to ensure a seamless start to their tour experience.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Senior Citizens?
Yes, the tour offers a 10% discount for senior citizens. Customers aged 65 and above can save up to Kč 288 per person by booking this full-day sightseeing excursion in Istanbul.
Can I Modify the Itinerary to Visit Additional Sites?
Yes, the tour itinerary can be modified to visit additional sites. Customers can work with the tour operator to customize the tour based on their interests and preferences, subject to availability and additional costs.
The Sum Up
This full-day Istanbul tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the city’s cultural and historical highlights. Visitors will marvel at the architectural wonders of Hagia Sophia and the Sultanahmet Mosque, discover the ancient Hippodrome, and enjoy the charming Balat neighborhood. The tour also includes a serene Bosphorus boat ride and a delicious lunch, making it an ideal way to experience the rich tapestry of Istanbul’s heritage.
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