Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia one-day tour in Istanbul, Turkey

Explore the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Hippodrome on a shared guide walking tour of Istanbul. Admire the historic buildings and unique views of the city. Get an insider's perspective on these must-see attractions. Meet your guide near Sultanahmet and visit Istanbul's great monuments on a walking tour. Start at the Blue Mosque, formerly known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, one of the most famous mosques in Turkey. It is famous for its decoration with blue Iznik tiles. Marvel at this glorious masterpiece of Ottoman-era architecture and art, commissioned by Sultan Ahmed. Witness the evocative power and splendor of its past as you enjoy a comprehensive guided tour of the Blue Mosque. Afterwards, enjoy views of modern Istanbul from the courtyards and stroll around the neighborhood. Pass through the Hippodrome, the political center of the city, and learn about the importance of the famous obelisk. Visit Hagia Sophia to witness the most important site of Greek Orthodox Christianity in Istanbul and learn how it was converted into a mosque after the Ottomans conquered Constantinople. Explore the amazing monument, with elements of a mosque and church next to each other. Admire the cathedral's stunning dome and minarets, as well as its countless mosaics, paintings, and Roman columns. Learn how the amazing Virgin Mary mosaic was made and why the Ottomans chose to bury their sultans in the courtyard. Explore the Arasta Bazaar, located in the shadow of the Blue Mosque, and learn about the architecture of 17th-century public buildings. This is a famous open-air market in the heart of Sultanahmet. Here you can pick up authentic traditional Turkish gifts to take home. End your tour at Sultanahmet Square, where guide will provide enough information and tips to help you explore independently throughout the rest of your time in Istanbul. [Special Note] This product is an English product. The guide/tour staff, itinerary and other arrangements are all in English. If you do not understand English and cannot communicate with the local guide, or if any situation occurs that causes the trip to be unable to proceed, our company will not be responsible. [Starting time] 9:00-15:30 Duration: About 3 hours [meeting point] meeting point: Binbirdirek, Address: At Meydanı Cd No:40, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye. Please arrive at the agreed location at least 20 minutes in advance. Traffic conditions in Istanbul are not good, so please leave early to join your tour on time. If you are late, you will not be able to join. [Remarks] 1. All times in the itinerary description are for reference only. The actual travel time and the length of stay at scenic spots shall be subject to the arrangements of the local tour operator. 2. The attractions, tour sequence, driving distance, tour time, free activity, etc. listed in the itinerary are for reference only. The itinerary may be adjusted according to the actual situation on the day. Please refer to the arrangements of the local tour operator on the day. Our company reserves the right to make adjustments before and after. 3. admission ticket refer to the first gate admission ticket to the attractions included in the itinerary. 4. Included: reserved admission ticket for Hagia Sophia, walking tour, guide, headphones. 5. Not included: transportation to the meeting point, meals, Gratuities, and other items not mentioned in the inclusions. 6. Note: Women must wear headscarves and are not allowed to wear shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless shirts. 7. All visitors must pass through airport-style security and take off their shoes before entering both landmarks. 8. You need to queue to enter the mosque, and the guide will try to make it easier for the group. Due to the long queue, entry to Hagia Sophia is not guaranteed. 9. The traffic condition in Istanbul is not good, so please leave early to join your tour on time. If you are late, you will not be able to join. 10. The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are functioning mosques and may be closed at the last minute without prior notice.