Excursion Glorious byzantine empire tour at Istanbul

Explore Istanbul through the centuries during this scenic and memorable, full-day introduction to some of the city's major attractions.

Byzantine City Walls

Depart the pier for the drive through Old Istanbul, crossing the Galata Bridge. Your guide will point out the Suleymaniye Mosque, one of the most important mosques of the Ottoman Empire, before you drive along the city walls surrounding the ancient city.

Byzantine Hippodrome

After panoramic drive, visit the Byzantine Hippodrome, once the heart of Constantinople's political and sporting life, and monuments on the site include the Snake Column from Delphi and an Egyptian Obelisk taken from the Temple of Karnak at Luxor.

Hagia Sophia Mosque

The next visit in the morning part of your program will be St. Sophia Mosque, also known as the 'Church of Divine Wisdom'. First erected by Constantine in 325 A.D. and later rebuilt by the Holy Roman Emperor Justinian, the mosque is considered the Eighth Wonder of the World by many historians. At one time, it may have been the world's largest building, and as a manmade structure ranked only behind the Great Pyramids of Egypt and the Great Wall of China. For many centuries, St. Sophia was the world's largest church, and today remains the fourth-largest behind St. Paul's in London, St. Peter's in Rome, and Duomo in Milan. The minarets that tower above the gigantic dome were added after Istanbul's conquest in 1453, when the church was converted into a mosque.

Lunch

After this enchanting visit, proceed for lunch to one of the best restaurants of Istanbul that specializes in traditional Ottoman Palace recipes.

Underground Cistern

This amazing underground cavern measures roughly 210 feet wide and 420 feet long, with a capacity of 80,000 cubic meters of water. The 336 beautiful columns that support the cistern were salvaged from pagan temples destroyed during the Roman Empire's conversion to Christianity. Two of the columns are carved with the head and hair of Medusa on the plinth. Following your exploration of the reservoir, proceed for a visit to the Grand Bazaar.

Grand Bazaar

The world's largest covered market, this famous institution occupies a whole city quarter. Sections spanning a maze of lanes and alleys separate the various trades. A short orientation and general directions are offered before setting out on your own to browse the precious handmade carpets, jewellery, leather and souvenirs. Keep your eyes out for bargains, and get ready to negotiate and soak in the unparalleled atmosphere of one the world's great merchant centres.

Following your visit, re-board your coach for the return drive to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Byzantine City Walls, Byzantine Hippodrome, Hagia Sophia Mosque, Underground Cistern, Grand Bazaar, Lunch

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 3 miles ( about 4.9 km) with 60 steps to reach the Underground Cistern, and is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Please bring local currency or USD if you wish to purchase souvenirs at the Grand Bazaar. The tour sequence may vary. On Sunday the Grand Bazaar is closed and the visit will be replaced by a visit to the Spice Market. The St. Sophia Museum is now a mosque, therefore to enter guests must have their shoulders-knees covered and women must cover their heads. Visit to St. Sophia Mosque will take place to the upper gallery floor and access via ramp and few steps. Guides’ commentary will be limited inside the mosque regarding to official rules and headsets devices will be used during the visit. As guests make their way back to the exit, they will encounter 30 steps before reaching the ramp, followed by a few steps and cobblestone road just before exit. The mosque is not wheelchair accessible.