Your guide takes you on an in-depth tour of both Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace with Harem. You'll hear interesting stories that other tours fail to mention.
Experience the main attractions of Istanbul, as well as the small but equally wonderful details of the city on this small-group tour. Your guide takes you on an in-depth tour of both Blue Mosque and Topkapı Palace. You’ll hear interesting stories that other tours fail to mention.
Sultanahmet (Blue) Mosque
Sultan Ahmed Mosque, known as the Blue Mosque by many tourists because of its bluish interior decoration (blue tiles surrounding the walls of interior design), is the most important mosque of Istanbul standing next to the Byzantine Hippodrome in the old city center..
Sultanahmet Square
This beautiful square and a great place to make a stop, relax and take photos of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.
Topkapi Palace
Topkapı Palace was the seat of Ottoman Empire more than 380 years where 24 of 36 Sultans lived and ruled their land. The palace was transformed into a museum in 1924 and now one of Turkey’s richest museums with its permanent and temporary exhibition halls. Buildings and courtyards, including a treasury, apartments, bathhouses, harems, and an armoury, holy relics section, not to mention imperial halls, kitchens and royal chambers that make a visit into Topkapi’s inner walls one of the world’s great wonders. Treasures within include 13th-century Japanese porcelain, weaponry used by the Ottoman army, 86 carat 4th biggest diamond of its kind and world famous Topkapi Dagger any many more..
Sogukcesme Sokak *
This is a small street with beautiful historic houses which are leaning against the wall of Topkapi Palace.
Hagia Sophia Mosque *
Hagia Sophia the Church of Divine Wisdom, a fifteen hundred years old splendid monument, is a must see in Istanbul, built to be the world’s largest place of worship by Emperor Justinian in 532 AD.
Professional guide
Small Group
Topkapi Palace entry ticket (if “All Inclusive Option” is selected)
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Gratitudes
Iconic Historical Sites: The tour provides access to two of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks—the Blue Mosque and Topkapı Palace with Harem. These are essential for understanding Istanbul’s rich history and the legacies of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires.
In-depth Experience: Unlike many general tours, this one offers a deeper dive into the history, architecture, and fascinating stories behind these monuments, including unique insights into the Harem section of Topkapı Palace, where you’ll learn about the palace’s intimate secrets and royal life.
Skip the Lines: With an All-Inclusive Option, you’ll skip the long queues at Topkapı Palace, saving valuable time, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Expert Local Guide: Your guide is a local expert who will share hidden gems, lesser-known historical facts, and captivating stories that most tours miss, enriching your understanding of the city’s cultural heritage.
Rich Ottoman History: You’ll explore Topkapı Palace, the seat of the Ottoman Empire for over 380 years, and discover its treasure rooms, royal chambers, and the famous Topkapı Dagger—all while hearing tales of the empire’s sultans and their extravagant lifestyles.
Cultural Immersion: Experience the atmosphere of Sultanahmet Square, where you can admire the stunning architecture of the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia, while learning about their transformation from churches to mosques and their role in Istanbul’s cultural identity.
Perfect for First-Time Visitors: This tour offers a balanced overview of Istanbul’s historical core, ideal for those visiting the city for the first time or those wishing to learn more about its cultural and architectural treasures.
Comfortable and Informative: The easy pace of the tour makes it suitable for all visitors, including families and those with limited mobility, while ensuring you gain comprehensive insights into the city’s past.
Comfortable Footwear: Since the tour involves walking through historic sites with cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces, comfortable shoes are a must. Sneakers or sturdy walking shoes are recommended.
Modest Clothing: When visiting the Blue Mosque, dress modestly. Women should bring a scarf or shawl to cover their heads, and both men and women should wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees. If you forget, scarves and shawls are available at the mosque.
Water Bottle: It’s important to stay hydrated, especially during the summer months. Carry a refillable water bottle.
Camera: You’ll want to capture the stunning views, intricate details, and unique architecture, so don’t forget your camera or smartphone. However, be mindful of photography restrictions inside certain parts of the sites, such as the mosque or the Harem section of Topkapı Palace.
Cash for Entrance Fees: If you haven’t opted for the All-Inclusive Option, bring cash (in Turkish Lira or Euro) for the Topkapı Palace entrance fee. You will pay your guide directly to skip the ticket line.
Sunscreen and Hat: For sunny days, bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun while walking outside, especially in Sultanahmet Square and Topkapı Palace gardens.
Travel Guide/Notebook: If you’re a history enthusiast, bring along a small travel notebook or guidebook to jot down any extra details or historical facts shared by your guide.
Light Jacket or Sweater: While Istanbul can be warm during the day, the Blue Mosque and Topkapı Palace can be cooler inside, so it’s a good idea to bring a light jacket or sweater.
Personal Identification: Always carry some form of ID, especially when traveling internationally. A copy of your passport might also be helpful.
Snacks: If you have dietary preferences or restrictions, consider bringing a small snack with you, as the tour might not include a full meal.
In-Depth Historical Knowledge: You’ll gain an understanding of the rich Byzantine and Ottoman history that shaped Istanbul, especially through expert commentary on landmarks like the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. Learn about the fascinating stories behind each site, from royal intrigues to the evolution of Islamic architecture.
Cultural Insights: The tour provides an immersive experience into Turkish culture, from its spiritual heritage at the Blue Mosque to its imperial past in the Topkapi Palace. You’ll hear stories and legends that connect the past with the present, enriching your cultural appreciation of Istanbul.
Architectural Appreciation: Admire the stunning architecture of these two iconic landmarks. The Blue Mosque with its blue-tiled interior and the grandeur of the Topkapi Palace offer a glimpse into the artistic splendor of the Ottoman Empire. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship that went into these architectural marvels.
Exclusive Access: Skip the lines to Topkapı Palace, ensuring you can explore the palace’s treasures, gardens, and harem without wasting time. This privilege lets you experience these legendary sites more comfortably and efficiently.
Knowledgeable Guidance: Your professional guide will provide fascinating facts, lesser-known stories, and expert insights into the history, architecture, and cultural significance of each landmark. You’ll walk away with a well-rounded understanding of Istanbul’s vibrant past.
Spiritual Reflection: At the Blue Mosque, you’ll gain insight into the significance of Islamic religious practices and its architectural elements, offering a chance for quiet reflection and understanding of the spiritual life of the city.
Exclusive Stories: Learn interesting facts that are not typically covered in other tours. Your guide will share details about the life of sultans, the Harem’s hidden chambers, and the Ottoman Empire’s impact on the world that you won’t find in guidebooks.
A Sense of Connection to Istanbul’s Legacy: As you walk through these monumental sites, you’ll feel a deeper connection to the city’s centuries-old history, as well as its role as a crossroads between Eastern and Western civilizations.
Visual Masterpieces: From the mosaics and tile work inside the Blue Mosque to the artifacts in Topkapi Palace, you’ll be surrounded by stunning visuals that reflect centuries of artistic and historical evolution.
Perfect Introduction to Istanbul: This tour is an ideal way to begin your visit to Istanbul, offering both an introduction to the city’s most significant attractions and a deeper dive into its cultural roots. It will provide a comprehensive overview that will enrich your entire trip.
