Hidden Istanbul

Discover the secrets haunts of locals in Sultanahmet and explore the back streets and hidden gems Walk the ancient highway to Rome "Divanyolu" Explore Aya Sofya and other mosques with a local and gain insight into Islam Be stunned by stellar views of Istanbul and hear tales of both Byzantine and Ottoman drama and intrigue Explore the labyrinth that is the Grand Bazaar.

After a visit to the monumental Aya Sofya (Hagia Sofia), the church-turned-mosque-turned-museum, we walk up the Divanyolu, to explore the Grand Bazaar. We’ll explore the Suleymaniye Mosque Complex with our local guide, who points out the best photographic opportunities. We’ll also take the time to rest and try traditional Turkish tea in a picturesque hidden garden.

Get the most out of Istanbul with a few hours in the company of an expert local guide. As we go, your local guide will point out places to get the best coffee, pastries and show you the main points of interest along the way. Explore Istanbul’s monumental Aya Sofya (Hagia Sofia), a Byzantine church-turned-mosque-turned-museum. Following this we make our way across to walk Divanyolu, a historical thoroughfare originally mapped out by Emperor Constantine, in the early 300s AD. For a change of pace, explore the Grand Bazaar, internationally known as the first ever shopping mall, and take a look at the incredible array of goods for sale in any of the 4000 shops. We’ll also stop by the book bazaar, where the first printed book in Turkey was sold in 1729. Just behind the Book Bazaar is Beyazit Mosque, where your local guide will teach you about Islam, the mosque and the roles both play in Turkish society.

Then explore the beautifully symmetrical Mosque of Süleyman the Magnificent, including time to try Turkish tea in the sunken garden area in the vicinity of the Mosque. We’ll continue our tour with a visit to the Istanbul University, built by the reforming Ottoman Sultans, and learn about the role of education in the modern republic, and the amazing transformation that was undertaken during the time of Ataturk. We’ll finish the tour in the Grand Bazaar area, where your leader can direct you to a local ‘lokanta’ (small restaurant) for lunch.

Includes: English speaking guide, Aya Sofya entry / guiding and Sultanahmet, tour of the Grand Bazaar, Book Bazaar, Beyazit Mosque, tea at Local teahouse in Suleymainye, visit to Suleymainye Mosque Complex.
Not included: Extra Drinks and additional food stuff shopping, tips or gratuities for your local guide.

Assistance or guided tour

Admissions

Drinks

Half Day - Morning in English

Appropriate age for child ticket from 7 to 11 years