If you want to experience the marvels of Istanbul, this half day Istanbul sightseeing tour is the perfect option. Tour one of the most famous architectural creations in history, Hagia Sophia and visit the Hippodrome and Blue Mosque. This half-day Istanbul tour will take you to all the highlights of this magical city.

The Hagia Sophia was originally an orthodox patriarchal basilica before being converted to a mosque. Famous specifically for its huge dome, it is often regarded as the essence of Byzantine architecture. As the largest cathedral in the world for over a thousand years, Hagia Sophia is an element of history that you will be amazed to witness. Next you will tour the Hippodrome of Constantinople, which is a famous square in the city of Istanbul. During the reign of Emperor Constantine the Great around AD 324, the Hippodrome functioned as a circus and a site for other entertainment purposes. Today the area is officially called Sultan Ahmet Square and is an exciting and historical visit on the tour.

The Blue Mosque, otherwise known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is the next stop on the tour. The culmination of two centuries of both Ottoman mosque and Byzantine church development makes this mosque overwhelming due to its size, brilliance, and majesty. Built in 1616, this mosque consists of a façade, interior, and general architecture that will amaze due to its vast size and overwhelming beauty.

The Grand Bazaar will be the last stop on your tour. The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest markets in the world and contains more than 4,000 shops over an area that consists of 61 streets. Inside the walled city of Istanbul, during your Grand Bazaar tour, shop and enjoy the Turkish culture that this market has to offer. The Istanbul half-day tour is the best way to explore the marvels of this historical city in an exciting and educational manner.

Please Note: The Blue Mosque is currently under restoration until April 21, 2023. The Blue Mosque visit will be replaced with a visit to the Nuruosmaniye Mosque. The Blue Mosque is closed from 30 minutes before until 30 minutes after prayer time, and 2 hours during Friday noon prayer.