Explore Istanbul’s top landmarks with seamless access, expert guides, and the flexibility to choose your own adventure through the city’s rich history.
Your journey begins in Sultanahmet, where the city's top attractions are all just a short walk away from each other. While each site is within walking distance from one another, please note that there will be mandatory security checks at each entrance, even for those with skip-the-line tickets. These checks ensure safety and can take up to 60 minutes during peak hours. Once inside, a licensed expert guide will be ready to take you through the rich history of these incredible sites.
With its towering dome and intricate mosaics, Hagia Sophia is a breathtaking masterpiece that seamlessly blends Byzantine and Ottoman architecture. Its rich history as a cathedral, mosque, and now museum offers visitors a captivating journey through Istanbul's layered past.
Just a short walk from Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque stands as one of Istanbul’s most impressive landmarks. Adorned with thousands of blue Iznik tiles, it captivates visitors with its serene atmosphere, grand dome, and six towering minarets, making it a must-see for any visitor to the city.
A few minutes away, Topkapi Palace offers a fascinating journey into the life of the Ottoman sultans. Explore the opulent rooms, lush courtyards, and treasure-filled chambers, including the sacred relics and royal collections that offer a peek into centuries of imperial history.
Just around the corner from the palace, the Basilica Cistern invites you to step beneath the city into a quiet, cool, and mysterious space. With its towering columns rising from the reflective waters, it’s a stunning underground marvel that once provided water to the Byzantine palace, now a peaceful escape from the bustling city above.
This tour lets you choose the sites that interest you most—one, two, or all four. Whether you're fascinated by Ottoman history, Hagia Sophia’s mosaics, or Istanbul's mosques, you’ll have the freedom to explore at your own pace with expert commentary along the way.
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Wear comfortable, sturdy footwear with good traction, as some areas, especially the Basilica Cistern, may be wet or slippery.
Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered; women should bring a scarf or shawl to cover their heads when visiting Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.
Bring a small bag for your shoes when entering the Blue Mosque, as shoes must be removed before entry.
Wired earphones or headphones are recommended for the audio guide app, as Bluetooth may not work effectively in underground areas.
Bring cash for small purchases, such as scarves or body covers at mosque entrances, and for nearby cafés or souvenirs.
Consider bringing a light jacket or sweater, as the Basilica Cistern remains cool and damp even in summer (June to August).
Large bags, backpacks, food, and drinks are prohibited inside the sites.
Flash photography, tripods, and selfie sticks are not allowed within the landmarks.
Shoes must be removed before entering the Blue Mosque and cannot be worn indoors.
Modest clothing is required at Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque; attire that exposes shoulders or knees is not permitted.
Some areas in Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque may be closed to visitors during prayer times.
All visitors must pass through mandatory security checks at each site, even with skip-the-line tickets. Wait times can be up to 60 minutes during peak hours (June to August).
Scarves and body covers are available for purchase at the entrance of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia for approximately €1 to €3, if needed.
Hagia Sophia is closed to tourists on Fridays from 12pm to 2:30pm for Friday prayer; plan your visit accordingly.
The ground floor of Hagia Sophia is reserved for prayers, while the Upper Gallery is open to visitors (when accessible).
Cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time. Variant-specific cancellation policies may apply.
