Hidden Istanbul Walking Tour

Hidden Istanbul Walking Tour
Excursion Highlights:
  • Visit noteworthy location, savor Turkish tea, and immerse in local culture on this Hidden Istanbul Walking Tour
  • Explore the famous Sultan Ahmet Square, a former sporting and social hub, and witness remnants of a bygone era
  • Immerse in architectural wonder at Sukollu Mehmet Pasa Mosque and meander through charming Davanyolu Street's unique shops and eateries
  • Experience the bustling Grand Bazaar, one of the world's largest indoor markets, and delve into Turkish shopping culture
  • Marvel at the grand Suleymaniye Mosque, learn about Turkish baths, and enjoy a captivating city view with sipping Turkish tea at a local tea house
Price: $25.00
Choose Options My Cruise Itinerary
Summary
Shore Excursion Size ? Small
Shore Excursion Type Cultural, Active, Scenic
Shore Excursion Duration 5 Hours
Activity Level ? Easy
Shore Excursion Leaves From ? Cruise Ship Terminal
Food/Beverage Provided Tea at local tea house in Süleymaniye.
Recommended Dress Comfortable lightweight seasonal clothing. Good quality sunglasses are advised, and photo-chromatic lenses for those who wear spectacles. Please be aware that the standard of dress throughout Turkey is conservative. We recommend modest clothing to respect this fact; clothing that covers your shoulders and knees is required. Please note that short shorts for both men and women are not acceptable nor are tank or singlet tops.
Restrictions Must be able to get in/out of vehicle and walk about 2-3 miles. Not handicap accessible. Must be above the age of 6 years.

Hidden Istanbul Walking Tour

Embark on a personalized journey to some of Istanbul's most noteworthy destinations. On this Istanbul tour, you'll visit locations full of rich history, learn about Turkish culture, and sample delicious Turkish tea while enjoying a wonderful view of the city. This Istanbul tour is ideal for small groups or families looking for an enjoyable and interesting cultural experience at a low price.

Begin your Istanbul walking tour by exploring the Hippodrome of Constantinople. This famous square, today named Sultan Ahmet Square, is the site of a former sporting and social center. Horse and chariot races were popular pastimes in Constantinople, drawing large crowds to watch and revel in excitement. Political discussions were also held on occasionally in this historic square, where fragments of the original structure still survive, along with historic monuments.

Next on your Istanbul tour is the Sukollu Mehmet Pasa Mosque. Located in the old part of town, this beautiful dignified mosque is noted for its architecturally unique setting on a steep slope and its stunning collection of Iznik tiles. After visiting this gorgeous mosque, make your way through Davanyolu Street, a historic road decorated with charming shops, restaurants, and hotels.

Enjoy a brief look at several local craftsmen going about their daily work, then navigate the Grand Bazaar's scenic backstreets. The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. This beautiful walled marketplace contains over 3,000 shops across 61 covered streets. Feel the excitement of shopping in Turkish culture; the Grand Bazaar was designated the number one most-visited tourist attraction in 2014. Book lovers will enjoy a visit to the book bazaar, where Turkey's first printed book was sold in 1729.

Your Istanbul tour then leads you to one of the best-known sights in the city, the Süleymaniye Mosque. This extraordinary mosque is Istanbul's largest. Its stunning architecture and impeccable design are sure to impress you, along with the historically significant Turkish baths inside the complex. Learn about the Turkish bath's history and cultural importance from your knowledgeable guide. Your tour of historic Istanbul continues to a local tea house, where you'll sample delicious Turkish tea and enjoy captivating views of the city. Finalizing your Istanbul tour is a stop at the Spice Bazaar, where you can enjoy lunch at a local "lokanta" (small restaurant) or spend time with your professional guide learning about Istanbul's array of available experiences.

Book this Istanbul tour now for a personalized tour at a great low price. Please note: the standard of dress throughout Turkey is conservative. Modest clothing covering your shoulders and knees is required. Short shorts and sleeveless shirts (for both men and women) are not acceptable. Shoes must be removed upon entering any mosque.