Istanbul: Historical Constantinople City Tour With Lunch

Keen to uncover the captivating history of Istanbul? Embark on a journey through the city's iconic landmarks, delving into its rich cultural heritage and savoring a delightful lunch.

Istanbul’s Historical Constantinople City Tour with Lunch promises a captivating journey through the city’s storied past. Priced at $73.82 per person, this 8-hour excursion takes visitors to iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, immersing them in the city’s rich cultural heritage. With a professional guide by their side, participants can uncover the fascinating stories that have shaped this remarkable metropolis over the centuries. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seek to explore the wonders of Istanbul, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the city’s captivating past.

Key Points

  • This 8-hour Istanbul tour takes visitors to the iconic Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and bustling Grand Bazaar.
  • The tour is priced at $73.82 per person with a 15% savings and includes lunch, hotel pick-up/drop-off, and all admission fees.
  • Highlights include exploring the intricate Iznik tiles of the Blue Mosque, marveling at the Byzantine mosaics of Hagia Sophia, and discovering the opulent Topkapi Palace.
  • The tour offers ample photography opportunities and is led by a professional licensed guide who provides historical context.
  • Booking is available with no upfront payment, and cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

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The Istanbul Historical Constantinople City Tour with Lunch offers visitors an immersive experience in the heart of Istanbul.

Priced at $73.82 per person – a 15% savings – this 8-hour tour showcases the city’s iconic landmarks. Guests can explore the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar.

The tour includes lunch, hotel pick-up/drop-off, and admission fees. Travelers can book with no upfront payment and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This comprehensive tour includes lunch, hotel transportation, and admission fees. Travelers can book with no upfront payment and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

With a licensed guide and ample photography opportunities, this comprehensive tour is an excellent way to discover Istanbul’s rich history and culture.

Highlights and Attractions

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Key historical sites await visitors on this Istanbul tour, including the iconic Blue Mosque with its soaring minarets and intricate Iznik tiles.

Travelers will also explore the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a 6th-century architectural marvel with stunning Byzantine mosaics.

The tour ventures into the Topkapi Palace, where visitors can admire the Bosphorus views and uncover the secrets of the Ottoman Empire.

The journey culminates at the bustling Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest covered markets, offering a vibrant glimpse into modern Turkish life and culture.

Itinerary and Experience

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This Istanbul tour begins with hotel pick-up from the European side of the city.

The experience starts at the Hippodrome, where the guide provides historical insights. Next, guests admire the iconic minarets and Iznik tiles of the Blue Mosque.

The tour then visits the magnificent Hagia Sophia, built in 537 AD, to marvel at its Byzantine mosaics. Afterward, they explore the opulent Topkapi Palace and enjoy panoramic views of the Bosphorus.

Finally, the tour concludes at the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest covered markets.

  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off

  • Visit Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace

  • Explore the Grand Bazaar

  • Professional licensed tour guide

Inclusions

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The tour includes a delectable lunch, as well as hotel pick-up and drop-off for your’ convenience.

Visitors will have access to the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace.

They’ll also gain entry to the Hagia Irene Museum, which is part of the Topkapi Palace complex.

Throughout the tour, a professional licensed guide will provide historical insights and context.

All entry fees and admissions to the featured attractions are included in the tour price.

This comprehensive package ensures a seamless and enriching experience exploring Istanbul’s renowned landmarks.

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Booking and Availability

Customers can check the availability of the Istanbul Historical Constantinople City Tour for their preferred starting times.

The tour is offered multiple times daily, providing flexibility for travelers.

Booking is available online through the tour provider’s website or mobile app.

To secure a spot, customers can select the desired date, number of participants, and pay upfront or choose the "Reserve Now, Pay Later" option to lock in the tour without an immediate payment.

  • Check availability for preferred starting times

  • Book online through website or mobile app

  • Select date and number of participants

  • Option to "Reserve Now, Pay Later"

Exploring the Blue Mosque

One of the highlights of the Istanbul Historical Constantinople City Tour is the visit to the Blue Mosque.

Admiring the mosque’s magnificent minarets and ornamental Iznik tiles is a captivating experience. Guests will marvel at the stunning interior, adorned with over 20,000 handpainted ceramic tiles in 50 different tulip designs.

The mosque’s unique six minarets and vast dome create an impressive silhouette against the skyline. Visitors can observe the active prayer life and experience the serene atmosphere within this iconic Istanbul landmark.

The Blue Mosque stands as a testament to the city’s rich history and architectural heritage.

Discovering Hagia Sophia’s Byzantine Mosaics

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Towering over Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet Square, Hagia Sophia captivates visitors with its breathtaking Byzantine mosaics.

These intricate artworks, spanning centuries, offer a glimpse into the grandeur of the ancient Byzantine Empire:

  • Luminous mosaics of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and various saints adorn the interior walls and domes.

  • The Deesis mosaic, depicting a majestic Christ flanked by the Virgin Mary and John the Baptist, is a masterpiece of Byzantine art.

  • Exquisite gold and glass mosaics in the upper galleries showcase the technical prowess of Byzantine artisans.

  • Visitors can admire the stunning detail and symbolism of these timeless mosaics, connecting them to Hagia Sophia’s rich history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos Inside the Topkapi Palace?

Yes, visitors can take photos inside Topkapi Palace. However, photography may be restricted in some areas to preserve the historical artifacts and architecture. It’s best to follow the tour guide’s instructions on where photography is allowed during the visit.

Is There a Dress Code for Visiting the Mosques?

There is a dress code when visiting mosques in Istanbul. Visitors should wear long pants or skirts that cover the knees, and avoid sleeveless shirts. Women should also cover their heads with a scarf.

Are Vegetarian/Halal Meal Options Available for Lunch?

Yes, vegetarian and halal meal options are available for lunch on this tour. The tour provider caters to various dietary requirements to ensure all participants can enjoy a satisfying meal during the tour.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Grand Bazaar?

Yes, visitors can purchase souvenirs at the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest covered markets. It offers a wide variety of traditional Turkish crafts, textiles, spices, and other local goods for travelers to browse and shop.

How Accessible Are the Tour Sites for People With Disabilities?

The tour sites are generally accessible for people with disabilities, with wheelchair-friendly paths and elevators available. However, visitors should check specific accessibility details with the tour provider prior to booking to ensure their needs can be accommodated.

The Sum Up

istanbul-historical-constantinople-city-tour-with-lunch

The Istanbul: Historical Constantinople City Tour with Lunch offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s storied past. Priced at $73.82 per person, the 8-hour tour provides a seamless experience with visits to iconic landmarks, a delicious lunch, and an expert guide to uncover the fascinating history. With flexible booking and a full refund policy, it’s an excellent choice for history enthusiasts seeking an immersive journey through the former Byzantine capital.

You can check availability for your dates here: