6-Hour Private Sultanahmet Tour with Byzantine and Ottoman Relics

6 Hours Round trip from Hotel Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore the ancient Roman Hippodrome and see the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpent Column, and the Column of Constantine
02 Visit the Blue Mosque, celebrated for its exquisite 17th-century tilework
03 See Hagia Sophia from the outside while restoration works continue
04 Descend into the 6th-century Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan) beneath the city streets
05 Browse the 15th-century Grand Bazaar, home to 4,000 shops under one roof

Step into the layered history of Istanbul on this 6-hour private tour focused on the city's greatest Byzantine and Ottoman relics. Explore the historic Sultanahmet area, where ancient public squares, grand mosques, imperial landmarks, and bustling marketplaces sit side by side. From the former arena of chariot races to the vibrant lanes of the Grand Bazaar, this experience brings centuries of history to life with the ease and flexibility of a dedicated guide. Hagia Sophia is included as an exterior visit only due to ongoing restorations.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 6 Hours

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

City Istanbul

Languages English, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Byzantine and Ottoman Highlights of Sultanahmet

Visit the ancient Roman Hippodrome, dating back to the 3rd century, where you will find the Obelisk of Emperor Theodosius, the Serpent Column, and the Column of Emperor Constantine.

Continue to the Blue Mosque, a 17th-century masterpiece famous for its tiles.

See Hagia Sophia, dating from the 6th century, on an exterior visit only due to ongoing interior and exterior restorations.

Explore the Underground Basilica Water Cistern, Yerebatan, from the 6th century AD.

End at the Grand Bazaar, a 15th-century covered market with 4,000 shops.

The route