Istanbul: Private Old City Shore Excursion

Embark on a private shore excursion from Galata port and discover Istanbul's rich history and culture. Visit several highlights, such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace, and learn about each site with your guide. First, visit Topkapi Palace, the great palace of the Ottoman sultans from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Admire its exquisite collection of crystal, silver, Chinese porcelain, sultans’ robes, miniatures, and Imperial Treasury jewels. See the Holy Mantle, enshrining relics of the Prophet Mohammed. Next, discover the Blue Mosque and admire its magnificent interior decoration of blue Iznik tiles. Continue to the Ancient Hippodrome, the scene of chariot races, and see its 3 monuments: the Obelisk of Theodosius, the bronze Serpentine Column, and the Column of Constantine. Afterward, visit the Hagia Sophia, previously known as the Church of Divine Wisdom, which is the greatest surviving example of Byzantine Architecture. Marvel at the stunning 6th-century golden mosaics in a church that was the largest church in the world for 1,000 years. Continue to the Spice Bazaar and browse for various traditional spices, souvenirs, and aromatic spices. After the tour, transfer back to Istanbul's Galata port.