Exploring the captivating sights of Istanbul has never been easier. The Istanbul-St Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Hippodrome Guided Tour offers travelers a chance to explore the city’s rich history and stunning architecture. Led by a licensed professional, this 3-hour experience takes you on a journey through the iconic landmarks, providing a hassle-free way to discover the treasures that have shaped Istanbul’s legacy. From the magnificent Blue Mosque to the iconic Hagia Sophia, prepare to be mesmerized by the grandeur that awaits. But the tour doesn’t end there…
Key Points

- This guided tour covers the iconic landmarks of Istanbul, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Hippodrome.
- The tour lasts 3 hours and includes hotel transfers, professional English-speaking guide, and entry fees to all sites.
- Visitors should bring their passport/ID, comfortable shoes, and a camera, and be prepared for security checks and possible delays.
- The tour starts at the Istanbul Hotel Alzer in Sultanahmet and includes a 1-hour visit to each the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.
- Customer feedback indicates mixed reviews, with the tour guide and value for money ratings being relatively low.
Overview of the Tour

This guided tour of Istanbul offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks.
Spanning three hours, the tour takes guests on a journey through the stunning Blue Mosque, the architectural marvel of Hagia Sophia, and the historic Hippodrome.
Along the way, a professional English-speaking guide provides expert insights and commentary, bringing the rich history and cultural significance of these sites to life.
With convenient hotel transfers and all entry fees included, this tour is a hassle-free way to experience the best of Istanbul in a single, well-paced outing.
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Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at the Istanbul Hotel Alzer in Sultanahmet, where guests gather to embark on their 3-hour journey.
Their first stop is the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, where they’ll spend an hour admiring its stunning minarets and intricate Iznik tiles.
Next, they’ll visit the renowned Hagia Sophia, an architectural masterpiece that captivates for another hour.
The tour concludes with a leisurely walk through the Hippodrome, the historical site of Roman chariot races, where guests can soak in the rich history of this iconic destination.
The itinerary highlights include:
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Guided tour of the Blue Mosque
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Exploration of the Hagia Sophia
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Walking through the Hippodrome
Included Services
The tour includes a professional English-speaking licensed guide to lead the way.
They’ll handle all service charges and taxes, so you don’t have to worry about those extra costs.
Hotel transfers and transport to the meeting point are also covered, ensuring a seamless start to your tour.
All entry fees to the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Hippodrome are included, saving you time and hassle at the entrance.
However, food, drinks, tips, and gratuities aren’t part of the package, so plan accordingly.
With these services taken care of, you can focus on exploring Istanbul’s iconic sights.
Visitor Information
When visiting the Istanbul-St Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome Guided Tour, be sure to bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a camera to capture the stunning sights.
Keep in mind that:
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Large bags and pets aren’t allowed.
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All visitors must pass through airport-style security.
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Entry into Hagia Sophia may be delayed due to long lines, and closures can occur without notice.
Despite these considerations, this guided tour offers a chance to explore the architectural marvels of Istanbul, from the Blue Mosque’s minarets to the Hagia Sophia’s renowned masterpiece.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Feedback
Based on 10 reviews, the overall rating for the Istanbul-St Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome Guided Tour sits at 3.6 out of 5.
Guests gave the tour guide a rating of 2 out of 5, and felt the value for money was only 1.8 out of 5.
Based on the reviews, guests felt the tour guide was disappointing and the value for money was poor.
However, some noted the tour had a pleasant pace and good explanations.
Challenges with the meeting point due to other tours starting simultaneously were also mentioned.
The reviews are mixed, with some guests appreciating the organization and communication via WhatsApp, while others were less satisfied with the overall experience.
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Meeting Point and Availability
The tour meeting point is at the Alzer Hotel in Sultanahmet, directly across from the obelisk on the Hippodrome. Guests should arrive at the designated location at least 15 minutes before the tour’s scheduled start time.
Here are 3 key points about the meeting point and availability:
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The tour is offered at various times throughout the day, so guests should check the availability when booking.
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Due to the popularity of the tour, the meeting point can get crowded with other groups, so it’s essential to arrive early.
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In case of any changes or cancellations, the tour operator will communicate with guests via WhatsApp, so they recommend providing a valid mobile number when booking.
Tour Duration and Price
The tour lasts 3 hours and costs from Kč 500 per person. That’s a fair price for a guided tour of these top Istanbul attractions.
The Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Hippodrome are all included, ensuring you see the city’s most iconic sights. While the duration may seem short, the guided nature means you won’t waste time wandering or getting lost.
With an English-speaking professional guide, you’ll learn the history and significance of each location. Just be mindful that entry fees and transportation to the meeting point are the only things included in the price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Pictures Inside the Mosques?
Yes, visitors can generally take photos inside the mosques, but they should be respectful and avoid disrupting prayers or services. Some mosques may have specific rules about photography that should be followed.
Do I Need to Cover My Head to Enter the Mosques?
Yes, visitors must cover their heads to enter the mosques. Many tour operators provide head coverings for women, but it’s a good idea to bring your own scarf or shawl just in case.
Is the Tour Accessible for Visitors With Disabilities?
The tour doesn’t explicitly mention accessibility for visitors with disabilities. It’s best to check with the tour operator about their accommodations and make any special arrangements needed ahead of time to ensure a comfortable experience.
Can I Leave the Tour Group to Explore on My Own?
Although the tour is guided, you can generally explore on your own during the designated free time. However, you’ll need to rejoin the group at the specified meeting point to continue the tour as scheduled.
Are Audio Guides Available During the Tour?
The tour doesn’t provide audio guides. You’ll have a live, English-speaking guide who’ll provide commentary throughout the tour. If you’d prefer to explore at your own pace, you can always leave the group to do so.
The Sum Up
This Istanbul sightseeing tour offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the city’s iconic landmarks. From the stunning Blue Mosque to the historic Hagia Sophia and Hippodrome, you’ll discover the rich cultural heritage of Istanbul under the expert guidance of a licensed professional. With entry fees and hotel transfers included, it’s a hassle-free way to make the most of your time in this captivating city.
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