Istanbul's Historic Highlights
Pick up from Istanbul port or hotel.
Begin at Hippodrome Square, where chariot races once took place and Byzantine riots occurred during the Roman and Byzantine periods.
Go to Hagia Sophia, built in 532 AD by Roman Emperor Justinian I, and the Blue Mosque, famous for its beautiful blue Iznik tiles.
Walk to Topkapı Palace, which was the residence of the Ottoman sultans and the administrative and educational centre of the state. It was constructed between 1460 and 1478 by Sultan Mehmed II, the conqueror of Constantinople. Also visit Topkapı Palace, including the treasury and weapons section.
Visit the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with more than 58 covered streets and over 1,200 shops, attracting between 250,000 and 400,000 visitors daily. Opened in 1461, it is well known for its jewellery, pottery, spice, and carpet shops.
Drop off at the port or hotel.
