Discover Istanbul Tour - Day 1Upon arrival in Istanbul you will be collected from the airport and transferred to your hotel for early check-in and breakfast. Late morning we start our guided walking tour of old Istanbul. We start with Haghia Sophia, the most influential church of Byzantium. Originally built by Emperor Constantine in the 4th century, reconstructed by Emperor Justinian in 6th century and converted into a mosque by the Ottomans in the 15th century, it still stands today as one of the world's greatest architectural marvels. The magnificent interior is testament to the unique east-west synthesis that is manifest in Istanbul. Shimmering biblical mosaics juxtapose huge plaques bearing the names of Islamic caliphs.
We stop for lunch at an authentic restaurant serving Turkish Cuisine. Next we visit the Blue Mosque, another of the world's most important religious buildings. Built in the 16th century the mosque is unique for it's 6 minarets and it's celestial interior decorated with the famous blue Iznik tiles.
Next, visit the Hippodrome, scene of chariot races. Although little remains of the great stadium which, in its hey day, is thought to have held 100'000 people, the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column and the Column of Constantine are highlights.
From here explore the Basilica Cistern, a vast underground water depot constructed to meet the needs of the Palace of Constantinople.
After lunch visit the grand Topkapi Palace, residence of Ottoman Sultan's from the 15th to the 19th century. With its impressive treasury, exquisite harem, attractive courtyards and pavilions housing huge collections of antiquities, Topkapi Palace offers a true insight into the heart of the Ottoman Empire.
End of the tour and return to your hotel. If requested, dinner and show programs can be arranged at an extra cost. |
