Istanbul Tours
Ottoman Relics Tour
Depart: 08:30 Return: 12:00
Half Day / Afternoon Tour
The Ottoman Relics Tour in Istanbul is a must-do experience for those who want to delve deep into the history of the Ottoman Empire, which ruled over Istanbul for 400 years. The tour covers the highlights of the Ottoman period, including the opulent Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia – once a church, later a mosque, and now a museum – and the Blue Mosque, a stunning example of Ottoman architecture. The tour also includes visits to lesser-known, but equally fascinating sites such as the Hagia Irene Church, the elegant Rustem Pasha Mosque, and the colourful Grand Bazaar.
Highlights
- Topkapı Palace
- Little Hagia Sophia
- Sultan Ahmet Square
- Hippodrome
- Obelisk of Theodosius
Included
- Hotel Pick-up & drop-off by air-conditioned non-smoking tour coaches
- Entrance Fees mentioned by the itineraries
- Professional Licensed Tour Guide
- Services Charges & Local Taxes
Excluded
- Lunch and Beverages
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratuitie
Tour Itinerary
TOPKAPI PALACE
Topkapi Palace is a historic site in Istanbul, Turkey, that served as the primary residence and administrative center of the Ottoman sultans for almost 400 years. Originally constructed in the mid-15th century, the palace was expanded and rebuilt by subsequent sultans, resulting in a complex of buildings, gardens, and courtyards spanning almost 180 acres. Visitors to Topkapi Palace can explore the various sections of the palace, including the Imperial Harem, the Treasury, and the Gardens. Some of the highlights of the palace include its collection of Islamic art and manuscripts, the impressive courtyards and fountains, and the ornate decorations and architecture. Today, Topkapi Palace is a popular tourist destination and museum, showcasing the rich history and cultural heritage of the Ottoman Empire.
LITTLE HAGIA SOPHIA
Little Hagia Sophia, or Küçük Ayasofya in Turkish, is a historical mosque located in Istanbul, Turkey. Originally built as a Byzantine church in the 6th century, it was later converted into a mosque during the Ottoman era. The mosque’s architecture is a blend of Byzantine and Ottoman styles, featuring a central dome and intricate stone carvings. It is significantly smaller than the famous Hagia Sophia, hence its name ‘Little Hagia Sophia’.
The mosque is still in use today and is open to visitors to admire its unique architecture and historical significance. It is a popular attraction for those interested in Istanbul’s rich history and architectural heritage.
SULTAN AHMET SQUARE
Sultan Ahmet Square is a public plaza in Istanbul, Turkey, surrounded by historical landmarks. One of these landmarks is Caferaga Medresesi, a 16th-century Ottoman theological school that now serves as a cultural center. Another nearby attraction is the Hippodrome of Constantinople, an ancient sporting arena that has been repurposed over the centuries for various events and monuments. One of these monuments is the Obelisk of Theodosius, a towering structure that dates back to the 4th century and is covered in intricate carvings depicting ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs. Together, these sites offer visitors a glimpse into Istanbul’s rich cultural and historical past, showcasing the blending of different architectural styles and traditions that have shaped the city over the centuries.
Notes
- Topkapı Palace is closed on Tuesdays.
- Treasury and Harem sections in Topkapi Palace are not included in the program and are due to extra entry.