Private Half-day Tour: Imperial Istanbul - Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern and Grand Bazaar
4 Hours
Mobile Ticket
Hotel Pickup Offered
English
Language Offered
×Offered in
Overview
Explore the fascinating history of Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern and Grand Bazaar during this half-day privately guided tour of imperial Istanbul. Discover the ancient church, former mosque and now internationally famous museum, the Hagia Sophia. This tour will wind you through the Grand Bazaar where you can haggle for Turkish treasures and then take you 500 feet below ground into the historic Basilica Cistern where a James Bond once thwarted evil plans.
Entrance fees included
Private half-day sightseeing tour of Istanbul's imperial sites
Visit Hagia Sophia
Shop in the Grand Bazaar
Visit the Underground Cistern or Nakkas Cistem
Inclusions & Exclusions
Inclusions
Hotel pickup and drop off
Entrance fees
Local guide
Transport by private vehicle
Exclusions
Gratuities (optional)
Food and drinks, unless specified
Departure & Return
Departure point
Pick up from centrally located hotels in Istanbul (European only)
Departure Time
9:00amPlease note: You must contact your local service provider 24 hours prior to the tour to reconfirm your departure point and time
Return Details
Returns to original departure point at approximately 1:00pm
What To Expect
Meet your private guide at your centrally located hotel in Istanbul (European side only) for your half-day tour of Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern and Grand Bazaar. Start with a short drive to the 6th century church and now museum, the Hagia Sophia. Built by the Roman Emperor Justinian, learn how Hagia Sophia remained one of the largest Basilicas until Ottoman rule when it was converted to a mosque. Then, stroll with your guide and observe the beautifully detailed Byzantine mosaics. (Closed on Mondays, this attraction will be exchanged with the Chlora Museum.)Continue to the underground Basilica cistern also referred to as the "Sunken Palace" (Turkish: Yerebatan Sarayi). Constructed below the famous peninsula of Sarayburnu by Byzantine Emperor Justinian in the 6th century, learn about this cistern's massive size, the largest of hundreds in Istanbul. Next, surface from the cistern and head to the Grand Bazaar. Famously in operation for over six centuries, wind your way along its 58 corridors and marvel at one of the largest covered markets on the planet. Peer into some of the 4,000 plus shops and see ornate jewelry, leather goods, spices and colorful carpets. (Closed on Sundays; extra time will be dispersed over the other locations.)
Additional Info
Confirmation will be received at time of booking
In the event of any museum closures, an alternative similar museum will be visited
Not recommended for children aged 4 and under
Children 18 years and under must be accompanied by an adult
Adult pricing applies to all travelers
During religious holidays (September 1-4, 2017) the spice market and Grand Bazaar are closed
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel At least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.