• Kapali Carsi - Your Imperial Istanbul tour begins with an early afternoon pickup from your hotel. Traveling by minivan, your guide will spend five hours immersing you in the rich history and culture of Turkey’s largest city.

Exploring Istanbul’s ancient past, you’ll discover that this city was the capital of four major empires: the Roman Empire (330–395), the Byzantine Empire (395–1204 and 1261–1453), the Latin Empire (1204–1261), and the Ottoman Empire (1453–1922). Strategically positioned along the Silk Road, connecting Europe and the Middle East, Istanbul has been a coveted prize for millennia.

Your first destination is Hagia Sophia, a former Greek Orthodox church constructed in the 6th century by Roman Emperor Justinian. Once the seat of the Patriarchate of Constantinople, Hagia Sophia was one of the largest basilicas in the Christian world before being converted into an Imperial mosque following the Ottoman conquest. Today, it stands as a magnificent museum showcasing Istanbul’s intricate history and featuring breathtaking Byzantine mosaics. Join locals and tourists as you explore Turkey’s second-most visited museum with your guide, who will provide detailed explanations.

A short walk from Hagia Sophia brings you to the Basilica Cistern, your next stop. The largest of several hundred ancient cisterns beneath the city, the Basilica Cistern was built in the 6th century during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I to serve as a water filtration system for the Great Palace of Constantinople.

Back on the surface, head to the Grand Bazaar to hone your bargaining skills at one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets. The original market was established in the 15th century, shortly after the Ottoman conquest. Today, you’ll find an astonishing variety of local treasures in more than 3,000 shops spread across 61 streets. Browse jewelry, leather goods, pottery, spices, carpets, and more, and absorb the vibrant atmosphere as your guide leads you through this cultural landmark.

Your tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel.

Please note: You may visit either the Basilica Cistern or Nakkas Cistern, Hagia Sophia (Closed on Mondays; will be replaced with Chora Museum), Grand Bazaar (Closed on Sundays; additional time will be spent at other locations).

• Hagia Sophia Mosque - St Sophia
• Basilica Cistern - Basilica Cistern
• Sultanahmet District - Walk through the Sultanahmet district

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Local guide
• Transport by air-conditioned minivan

• Gratuities
• Food and drinks, unless specified

Get a glimpse of Istanbul’s fascinating Imperial legacies on this half-day sightseeing tour with an expert local guide. First visit Hagia Sophia, once one of the largest basilicas in the world and now the second-most visited museum in Turkey. Venture below ground to the ancient Basilica Cistern, which once supported the Great Palace of Constantinople, and hone your haggling skills at the bustling Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets where you can shop for jewelry, spices, leather goods and souvenirs galore.

• Not recommended for children aged 4 and under
• Children 18 years and under must be accompanied by an adult
• In the event of any museum closures, an alternative similar museum will be visited
• Hagia Sophia will be closed on Mondays, should you travel on this day, you’ll visit the Chora Museum instead
• The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays and on religious holidays (September 1-4, 2017) should you travel on these days, you’ll spend additional time at Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.