Enjoy this fantastic tour of Istanbul's highlights all in one day. Begin by experiencing one of the most beautiful sights in the world, touring Sultan Ahmet Center, the heart of the Old City from where the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires were ruled. You'll enter the Hagia Sophia, the Church of the Divine Wisdom, one of the greatest marvels of architecture, constructed as a basilica in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian.
Just opposite the Hagia Sophia, you'll see the Blue Mosque, famous world over for its blue İznik tiles and unique with 6 minarets, built in the name of Sultan Ahmet. You'll then visit the Hippodrome, the center of sporting events like chariot races and athletics as well as political activities of the old city. Look out for the Serpentine Column, Obelisk of Theodosius and German Fountain of Wilhelm II which decorate it.
Next, you'll travel to the Grand Covered Bazaar, known as the most attractive shopping center and the biggest souk in the world with nearly 4,000 shops selling antiques, jewelry, gold, carpets, leatherware and souvenirs before stopping for lunch at a traditional Turkish Restaurant and continuing to the Dolmabahçe Palace, the recent residence of Ottoman Sultans. Built by two Ottoman architects Karabet and Nikogos Balyan on a 110.000 m² area the Palace served as the main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire and is famous for its great collection of European antiquity, furniture, and 4.5-ton chandelier.
Walk across the Bosphorus Bridge, with a unique chance to step from Europe into Asia in 2 minutes up to Çamlıca Hill, famous for having the best bird’s eye view of İstanbul from the Marmara to the Black Sea, enabling you to see the Bosphorus and Golden Horn from one of the highest and most appealing places in the city.
