ITINERARY

• The Hippodrome is often associated with the glory days of Constantinople as an imperial capital. However, it was actually built before that era when the city was known as Byzantium, a provincial town of moderate significance. In AD 203, Emperor Septimius Severus rebuilt the city and expanded its walls, constructing a hippodrome for chariot races and other entertainment. In AD 324, Emperor Constantine the Great decided to reestablish Byzantium as Nova Roma (New Rome) after his victory at the nearby Battle of Chrysopolis. However, this name failed to impress and the city was soon renamed Constantinople, the City of Constantine. Constantine expanded the city significantly, and one of his major projects was the renovation of the Hippodrome. Estimates suggest that Constantine's Hippodrome was approximately 450 m (1,476 ft) long and 130 m (427 ft) wide.
• Our professional licensed tour guide is the best way to experience the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii). Meet our friendly self-guided and licensed tour guide at gate C and discover the hidden gems of this magnificent site.
• The Basilica Cistern Museum is one of the most important cultural assets where we can trace the traces of glorious Istanbul's history. This grand underground cistern, built by Eastern Roman Emperor Justinian I (527-565), is nicknamed “Yerebatan Sarayı” (Sunken Palace) among the public due to its numerous marble columns rising from the water. It is also known as “Bazilika Sarnıcı” (Basilica Cistern) by some, as it was built on the site of the former Stoa Basilica, which was a basilica. With its 80,000-ton water storage capacity, Yerebatan Cistern is the largest covered cistern in the city and stands out with more reclaimed supporting elements compared to other covered cisterns. Covering an area of approximately 10,000 square meters, this colossal structure has a rectangular shape with a length of 140 meters and a width of 70 meters. Ticket fee 26 usd is not included.
• Engaging the services of a licensed professional tour guide is the most optimal way to gain access to the Hagia Sophia museum complex while avoiding lengthy queues and uncovering the hidden treasures of this exceptional Byzantine structure. Ticket fee 29 USD is not included.
• Since the middle of the 15th century, the Grand Bazaar is the most famous in Istanbul and a shopping paradise par excellence. Part of the Historical Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985, the bazaar is like a hidden city full of wonders and treasures. Visitors can enjoy an incomparable shopping experience and a unique atmosphere that reflects Istanbul’s spirit. No wonder that the Grand Bazaar is one of the must-see attractions of Istanbul and attracts over half a million visitors every day. Around the bazaar great opportunities for buying the best local carpets jewelery iznik tiles and leather jacket furs. Sunday bazaar close. it will replace with around bazaar craft centers.
• In the heart of Old Istanbul, next to Hagia Sophia and a few steps from Blue Mosque, we will have a lunch break at Deraliye Restaurant which offers a selection of dishes that used to be served at the court of the Ottoman Empire. we will experience the exclusive delight of a menu fit for a Sultan. Optional lunch extra