Historical Istanbul Tour in 1-Day

Enjoy a Full Day tour of Sultanahmet Area, the historical center of Istanbul, renowned as a world heritage site by UNESCO. Your local guide will take you to Hagia Sophia. Built in 537 AD as world's first large dome building, Hagia Sophia had been the religious focal point of the Orthodox Church before its conversion into a Muslim Mosque. Admire its unique decoration reflecting the Byzantine and Turkish periods.
Then, enjoy a short walk to the Blue Mosque from the 17th century. The Blue Mosque owes its fame to the exquisite blue Iznik Tiles on its walls. You'll then visit the Hippodrome, located next to the Blue Mosque, where you'll see an Egyptian Obelisk and Serpent Column where once horse chariots races of the Eastern Roman Empire took. Next, you will see the German Fountain which was a gift of Kaiser Wilhelm 2. Listen the stories of his liaison with the orient. The tour will continue to the Grand Bazaar. Following introduction by your professional guide at a recommended store, visit the bazaar at your leisure for shopping at 1,200 spice and gold shops.
After lunch at a local restaurant, visit the amazing Topkapi Palace, which was used as the principle residence of the Turkish Ottoman Empire from 15th to the 19th Century. Get to know this historical landmark accomanied with expert commentaries of your professional guide at the gardens halls where you'll view staggering collection of imperial and religious treasury golden thrones and emerald crowns. Next place to see is Hagia Irene Church (from outside). The final place of interest is the Church of Sergius and Bacchus today known as “Petit Hagia Sophia Mosque”. As you finish this informative tour with your professional guide...well, you will never be quite the same again. After the tour transfer back to the hotel.