The Old City of Istanbul

Old Istanbul: The Historical Treasures of the Imperial City

Discover Istanbul’s most iconic sites on an exceptional day in the heart of the Old City. Accompanied by a certified French-speaking guide, explore the must-see monuments that shaped the history of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, while enjoying fast-track access to certain sites to avoid long queues.

Pick-up from your hotel at 09:30

Hagia Sophia

The visit begins with the unmissable Hagia Sophia, one of the world’s most famous monuments. Built in the 6th century, this architectural marvel has successively served as a basilica, mosque, museum, and once again a mosque. Its immense dome, historical mosaics, and incredible heritage make it a unique place to discover.

Blue Mosque

Opposite Hagia Sophia stands the majestic Blue Mosque, famous for its six minarets and its beautiful Iznik tiles in blue tones, which gave it its name. It remains one of the masterpieces of Ottoman architecture.

Constantinople Hippodrome

Continue your discovery at the former Byzantine Hippodrome, once the center of public life in Constantinople. Here you will admire, among other things, the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column, and the German Fountain.

Grand Bazaar

Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. Its thousands of shops offer handicrafts, jewelry, spices, carpets, ceramics, and traditional souvenirs.

Balat and Fener

Then head to the historic districts of Balat and Fener, famous for their colorful houses, picturesque streets, and rich multicultural heritage.

St. Stephen Bulgarian Church

Discover the extraordinary St. Stephen Church, known as the Iron Church. Built entirely from prefabricated metal elements, it is a unique example of religious architecture in the world.

Greek Orthodox Patriarchate and St. George’s Cathedral

Visit the seat of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, the spiritual center of the Greek Orthodox Church, as well as St. George’s Cathedral, which houses several historical relics.

The Walls of Constantinople

Before returning, admire the imposing Walls of Constantinople, which protected the city for more than a thousand years and still bear witness today to the grandeur of the Byzantine Empire.

Return to your hotel around 16:00

The package includes

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off

• Certified French-speaking tour guide

• Fast-track access to Hagia Sophia

• Visit to the Blue Mosque

• Visit to the Hippodrome

• Discovery of the Grand Bazaar

• Visit to Balat and Fener

• Entry to St. Stephen Church (Iron Church)

• Visit to the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate

• Discovery of the Walls of Constantinople

Hours

09:30 – 16:00

A must-do excursion to discover Istanbul’s fascinating history through its most prestigious monuments, historic districts, and unique cultural treasures.