İstanbul Half Day Morning Tour

Hippodrome

The Hippodrome had been a center for sports and entertainment in the old Constantinople, the Eastern Roman Capital; as well as a very important center for politics, as sports and politics were closely knit ın these times. No wonder that the Hippodrome had been a starting point for revolts and political movements throughout history.

Echoes of cries by slaves riding chariots in ferocious races; and the passionate words of intellectuals and poets that lit the flame of public movements have still been reminiscent, to those with a powerful imagination.

Sultan Ahmet Mosque / Blue Mosque

It was the dying wish of Sultan Ahmet, who perished at a young age at the 17th century, due to a disease, to finish the mosque so that his name would live forever.

It is called the Blue Mosque by visitors who fell in love wıth the delicate designs of Ottoman tiles that decorate the walls of the shrine. The floral patterns of the tiles, as well as the well lighted, capacious internal spaces are testimonials of the eternity of the soul.

The St Sophia Museum / Aya Sofya Museum

The “Shrine of Holy Wisdom”, the marvelous Byzantine basilica built in the 6th century marks the true beginning of the golden age of Justinianus, the conqueror of Africa and Italy, who achieved lasting fame through the complete revision of all Roman law, resulting in what is known today as the Corpus Juris Civilis.

The domed construction of the sanctuary is an architectural innovation; and was so richly and artistically decorated that Justinian proclaimed, “Solomon, I have outdone thee!”. Mankind would have to wait for millennia before being able to build a cathedral that would surpass the gigantic size of Haghia Sophia.

Converted to a Mosque following the Ottoman conquest of the city, by the order of Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror in 1453; as the young Sultan fulfilled a divine premonition by the Holy Prophet Mohammad himself. In 1935 the building was converted to a museum, by the executive order of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey.

Grand Bazaar

The largest and the most attractive covered bazaar in the world; where people have been trading diamonds, carpets, food, perfumes, and, even gossip for centuries!

Tour also includes a short demonstration of Turkish rugs.

PRICES

Per person: 60 €

Prices do not include 18 % V.A.T.

INCLUDES

• Transportation by air conditioned vehicles.
• Fully escorted by an English speaking tour guide.
• Admission fees.

EXCLUDES

• Drinks and all personal expenses.