Itinerary
- Day 1
Istanbul
Your hotel picks you up this morning for a full day walking through Istanbul's central historic district. You'll start at Hagia Sophia, where the scale of the architecture really hits you once you step inside. The Blue Mosque is just across the plaza, and you'll have time to see both the exterior and interior. After that, you're heading to Topkapi Palace where the Harem section shows you how the Ottoman court actually lived. Your guide points out details you'd miss on your own. The Byzantine Hagia Irene comes next, then you'll walk through the ancient Hippodrome to see what remains from chariot racing days. By afternoon you descend into the Underground Cistern, which is cooler and quieter than the busy streets above. The Grand Bazaar wraps up your day, and while it's crowded and touristy, navigating the covered market with your guide makes finding the good sections easier. Hotel drop-off happens in the evening after a long but thorough day.
Included Activities
- Visit Hagia Sophia Museum
- Visit Blue Mosque
- Visit Topkapi Palace
- Visit the Harem at Topkapi Palace
- Visit Hagia Irene
- Explore the Hippodrome
- Visit the Underground Cistern
- Stroll through the Grand Bazaar
Landmarks Hagia Sophia Blue Mosque Topkapi Palace Hagia Irene Hippodrome Underground Cistern Grand Bazaar
