Experience Istanbul Highlights in one day with confidence

About this tour

If you’re visiting Istanbul and don’t know where to start, the best way is from the old town. Once the administrative center of the Roman Empire, Eastern Romans, and Ottomans, the city is divided into three. The European side is made up of an old town and a new part separated by the Halic "Golden Horn," and the Asian side of Istanbul is separated by the Bosporus strait.

Your day starts with Hippodrome, which was the social and cultural center of ancient Rome where chariot races took place. Visualize it like a modern-day sports stadium, with enthusiastic supporters on each side, like the blues and greens, screaming and shouting in a loud voice. Facing the grand Roman palace, they would eagerly wait for the emperor to come out and start the race. This was a place where people used to gather and entertain themselves under the hard conditions of life, as it was one of the only sources of entertainment available at the time.

As you explore the Hippodrome, you’ll see four fascinating relics (monuments): the German fountain, The Egyptian Obelisk, The Serpent Column and the Column of Constantine These relics are not only a testament to the rich history of ancient Rome but also a symbol of the power and influence it once held over the world.

Take your time to appreciate the intricate details of each monument and imagine the stories and events that took place around them. The German Fountain, for example, is a beautiful structure that features a stunning fountain with sculptures of Tritons, Nereids, and other mythical creatures. The Egyptian Obelisk, on the other hand, is a towering structure that has stood the test of time and is one of the oldest surviving ancient Egyptian obelisks in the world. The Serpent Column is another fascinating monument that was built to commemorate the victory of the Greeks over the Persians, while the Column of Constantine is a towering structure that was named after the Byzantine emperor who commissioned its construction.

After our visit to this location, we will proceed to the Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmet Mosque. This majestic structure was constructed during the reign of Sultan Ahmet, the 14th Ottoman Sultan of the dynasty. You will be captivated by the fascinating stories surrounding his life, all while admiring the breathtaking blue Iznik tiles.

Next stop, we have the Hagia Sophia mosque. This monumental structure in Istanbul, completed in the 6th century AD, was once an Orthodox patriarchal basilica. It has a rich history, serving as a church for 900 years until 1453, then as a mosque for 482 years, and now, as a mosque once again. It is important to note that shoes are not allowed inside the mosque, so please make sure to bring a small plastic bag with you.

You’ll have lunch at a Turkish restaurant.

After lunch, we will have the pleasure of visiting the renowned Topkapi Palace, the main residence of Ottoman Sultans and the heart of Istanbul. It was the soul of the Ottomans from the 1460s to 1856, and it boasts four courtyards, a zoo, and exquisitely designed kitchens with magnificent porcelain variations. Notably, it houses the fascinating and enigmatic HAREM, which never fails to pique visitors’ curiosity.

The final destination is undoubtedly the most vibrant: The Grand Bazaar- a shopping mall that resembles ancient times. It is impossible to stroll through its corridors without being mesmerized. Despite the crowd and chaos, the atmosphere is authentic and unparalleled.

It’s time to head back to the hotel, feeling satisfied with an unforgettable experience.