Half Day Old City – Sultan Ahmet Tour

Exploring Istanbul’s historic Sultan Ahmet district is a must for any visitor. The Half Day Old City – Sultan Ahmet Tour offers a compelling introduction to the city’s iconic landmarks. Travelers will marvel at the stunning architecture of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia while gaining insight into the region’s rich history. With an expert guide leading the way, this tour provides an enriching experience that’s both informative and convenient. Those eager to uncover Istanbul’s captivating past won’t want to miss this carefully curated experience.

Key Points

• This half-day tour explores the historic Sultan Ahmet district, including the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia Mosque.
• The tour is led by a professional licensed guide and includes hotel pick-up and drop-off service in designated areas.
• The tour duration is approximately 4 hours, with a brief break for personal time.
• Guests should wear comfortable walking shoes and dress modestly when visiting the Blue Mosque.
• The tour price includes admission to the Hagia Sophia Mosque, which costs 25 €.

Tour Overview

The "Half Day Old City – Sultan Ahmet Tour" is a 5.0-rated tour in Istanbul, Turkey that accommodates a maximum of 25 travelers.

A highly-rated tour in Istanbul’s historic Sultan Ahmet district, accommodating up to 25 travelers.

Located in the historic Sultan Ahmet district, the tour explores the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia Mosque.

Guests receive hotel pick-up and drop-off service within designated areas, along with a professional licensed guide.

The tour starts at 8:30 am, returning to the meeting point in Sultanahmet Square.

Confirmation is provided at booking, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but suitable for most travelers, including infants who must sit on laps.

Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off service for guests staying in Fatih, Eminönü, Sirkeci, Sultanahmet, Beyoğlu, Taksim, and Karaköy districts.

Travelers will have a professional licensed tour guide accompany them throughout the experience.

The tour provides admission to the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia Mosque, where guests can explore these iconic Istanbul landmarks.

The price of admission to Hagia Sophia Mosque is 25 €.

With transportation and entry fees covered, guests can focus on seeing the rich history and culture of the Old City during this half-day tour.

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup for the tour takes place between 07:30 – 08:15, depending on the location of the guest’s hotel.

Details are provided a day in advance. Guests staying outside the designated areas must arrive at the meeting point, Sultanahmet Square.

The tour starts promptly at 8:30 am and returns to the same meeting point at the end.

The meeting point’s exact address is Binbirdirek, Sultan Ahmet Parkı No:2, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye.

Guests should arrive on time as the tour doesn’t wait for late arrivals.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is suitable for most travelers.

Tour Schedule

The tour starts promptly at 8:30 am and returns to the same Sultanahmet Square meeting point by the end.

The schedule includes:

• Visiting the historic Hippodrome

• Admiring the iconic Blue Mosque

• Exploring the grand Hagia Sophia Mosque

• Enjoying a brief break for personal time

The tour duration is approximately 4 hours, ensuring guests have ample time to enjoy the rich history and architectural marvels of Istanbul’s Old City.

Guests will return to the starting point, making transportation convenient for the remainder of their day.

Highlights of the Tour

Immersing guests in the captivating history and architectural marvels of Istanbul’s Old City, this half-day tour showcases the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia Mosque. At the Hippodrome, travelers learn about the center of Byzantine civic life and witness remnants of ancient monuments. The Blue Mosque, with its iconic six minarets and stunning interior, presents an awe-inspiring display of Ottoman architecture. Lastly, the Hagia Sophia Mosque, a former Byzantine cathedral, astounds with its massive dome and opulent Byzantine mosaics. Through expert guided commentary, guests gain unparalleled insights into the city’s rich cultural heritage.

| Highlights | Significance |

|————|————–|

| Hippodrome | Center of Byzantine civic life |

| Blue Mosque | Iconic Ottoman architecture |

| Hagia Sophia Mosque | Opulent Byzantine mosaics |

What to Expect on the Tour

Guests can expect a comprehensive exploration of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, led by knowledgeable guides.

The half-day tour covers the highlights of the Old City, including:

• A visit to the stunning Blue Mosque, known for its exquisite blue tile interior

• An exploration of the Hagia Sophia Mosque, a former Byzantine church and one of the most significant architectural achievements in the world

• A stroll through the Hippodrome, the former civic center of Constantinople

• Time for browsing the local shops and experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of the Old City.

The tour provides a well-curated introduction to Istanbul’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Tips for the Tour

Although the tour provides a rundown of Istanbul’s top sights, there are a few tips that can enhance the experience.

Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the tour involves extensive walking. Bring a water bottle and snacks, as there may not be opportunities to purchase refreshments during the tour.

Be mindful of the dress code, especially when visiting the Blue Mosque, where modest attire is required. Have local currency on hand for any additional expenses, such as entry fees.

Finally, be prepared to navigate crowds, as popular sites can get busy, especially during peak tourist seasons.

FAQ

Can I Cancel the Tour if I Am Unable to Attend?

Yes, you can cancel the tour if you’re unable to attend. Most tour operators offer flexible cancellation policies, allowing you to receive a full or partial refund depending on the timing of the cancellation.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Water and Snacks?

The tour doesn’t include any food or drinks, so it’s recommended to bring your own water and snacks. This will help you stay hydrated and energized throughout the tour.

Is There a Dress Code for Entering the Mosques?

Yes, there is a dress code for entering mosques. Visitors should wear modest clothing that covers the shoulders, arms, and legs. Women should cover their heads with a scarf or shawl as well.

Can I Take Photos Inside the Hagia Sophia Mosque?

You can take photos inside the Hagia Sophia Mosque, but flash photography is not allowed. Be respectful of the sacred space and follow any instructions from the tour guide or mosque staff.

How Much Time Do We Spend at Each Site During the Tour?

The tour spends approximately 1 hour at each site, allowing sufficient time for visitors to explore the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia Mosque. The schedule is designed to provide a comprehensive experience within the half-day tour duration.

Sum Up

The Half Day Old City – Sultan Ahmet Tour provides an excellent opportunity to explore Istanbul’s historic highlights. With a professional guide, guests can explore the city’s rich cultural heritage, marveling at iconic sites like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. Convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off make this tour a hassle-free way to take in Istanbul’s architectural wonders and vibrant atmosphere.