Istanbul: Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia & Topkapi Palace Day Tour

Istanbul, the captivating city that straddles Europe and Asia, offers a wealth of historical wonders. This day tour promises to immerse visitors in the grandeur of the Blue Mosque, the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, and the opulent Topkapi Palace. With professional guidance and convenient logistics, travelers can explore the city’s vibrant past and uncover the stories that have shaped this enchanting metropolis. Whether seeking cultural enrichment or simply a captivating glimpse into the past, this tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to experience the essence of Istanbul.

Key Points

• This day tour covers the top attractions in Istanbul, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace.
• The tour price is $81.42 per person and includes pickup and drop-off from centrally located hotels, a guided tour, and lunch.
• The tour is available in English, Turkish, and Russian, and lasts for 9 hours.
• Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays, and the itinerary may be subject to change due to factors such as construction.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and guests should wear comfortable shoes and clothes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The "Istanbul: Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia & Topkapi Palace Day Tour" is a comprehensive sightseeing experience that covers the city’s iconic landmarks.

Priced at $81.42 per person, the 9-hour tour is available in English, Turkish, and Russian. Visitors can conveniently book the tour now and pay later.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off from centrally located hotels, professional guide services, walking tours, entrance fees, lunch, and tips.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance. While not suitable for wheelchair users, the tour provides an air-conditioned vehicle with parking and fuel fees included.

Itinerary Highlights

Pickup locations for this tour include Beşiktaş, Fatih, Kağıthane, Beyoğlu, and Şişli.

The main stops on the tour are the Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque), German Fountain, Column of Constantine, Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet Square, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar.

Lunch is included at a local restaurant.

After the tour, drop-off is available at Fatih, Beşiktaş, Kağıthane, Beyoğlu, and Şişli.

Pickup and transportation are provided via air-conditioned vehicles, with parking and fuel fees included.

Please note that Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays and will be replaced with a tour to Byzantium.

Tour Details

For this tour, pickup service is available from centrally located hotels; contact the provider via WhatsApp, email, or phone to confirm. Guests should be ready 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time.

Some hotels may require meeting at nearby points due to accessibility issues. Transportation is provided in air-conditioned vehicles, with parking and fuel fees included.

Due to accessibility concerns, some hotels may require meeting at nearby points. Vehicles provided are air-conditioned, with parking and fuel fees covered.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users. Guests should wear comfortable shoes and clothes.

Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays and will be replaced with a tour to Byzantium. Itineraries are subject to change, as some streets may be inaccessible due to ongoing construction.

What’s Included

This tour includes pickup and drop-off service from centrally located hotels.

It also provides a professional guided tour, walking tour, and entrance fees to the attractions on the itinerary. Lunch and drinks during the meal are included as well.

The price covers transportation in air-conditioned vehicles, including parking and fuel fees. Tipping is also taken care of, so guests can focus on enjoying the sights.

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Important Information

Accessibility is an important consideration for this tour, as it isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

When preparing for the tour, guests should wear comfortable shoes and clothes.

The tour has a few closed days – Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays, and will be replaced with a tour to Byzantium instead.

Plus, note that:

1. Itineraries are subject to change.

2. Some streets may be inaccessible due to construction.

3. Guests should be ready 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time.

4. Hotels may require meeting at nearby points due to accessibility issues.

Pickup Locations

The pickup locations for this tour include Beşiktaş, Fatih, Kağıthane, Beyoğlu, and Şişli.

Guests should contact the tour provider via WhatsApp, email, or phone to confirm their pickup point. Some hotels may require meeting at nearby locations due to accessibility issues.

Guests should confirm their pickup point with the tour provider via various contact methods, as some hotels may require meeting at nearby locations.

Guests should be ready 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time.

The tour utilizes air-conditioned vehicles with parking and fuel fees included.

Lunch and Dining Experiences

Lunch is included during the Istanbul day tour, providing guests with a culinary experience at a local restaurant. The meal features:

1. Traditional Turkish dishes, showcasing the rich flavors and diverse cuisine of the region.

2. A selection of appetizers, main courses, and desserts to sample a variety of local specialties.

3. Vegetarian and dietary options available upon request to accommodate various dietary needs.

4. Complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, such as water and tea, to accompany the meal.

The lunch break offers a chance to recharge and take in the authentic dining culture of Istanbul.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Safe to Visit the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia?

The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are generally safe to visit. Visitors should follow standard precautions, respect local customs, and heed any advisories or restrictions in place. With proper preparation, the sites can be enjoyed safely by most travelers.

Can I Take Photographs Inside the Religious Sites?

Visitors can generally take photographs inside religious sites, but they should be respectful and follow any site-specific rules. Some sites may restrict photography in certain areas or during specific ceremonies. It’s best to check with staff on arrival.

How Much Time Is Needed to Fully Explore the Topkapi Palace?

The tour allows 2-3 hours to fully explore Topkapi Palace. Visitors can view the extensive imperial collections, admire the palace’s architecture, and learn about its history as the primary residence of Ottoman sultans. Ample time is provided to take in the palace’s highlights.

Are There Any Dress Code Requirements for the Tour?

The tour has a dress code: visitors should wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes. Modest attire is required when visiting religious sites, with covered shoulders and knees.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for This Tour?

There don’t appear to be any discounts or special offers listed for this tour. The price is fixed at $81.42 per person. However, the tour does offer a "Reserve now & pay later" booking option for added convenience.

The Sum Up

This Istanbul day tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the city’s iconic landmarks. Visitors will explore the stunning Blue Mosque, the majestic Hagia Sophia, and the opulent Topkapi Palace, while also enjoying a delicious local lunch. With professional guidance, transportation, and entrance fees included, this tour provides an efficient and enriching way to experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Istanbul.

You can check availability for your dates here: