Istanbul Old City Tour: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque & Topkapi

Summary

Discover Byzantine and Ottoman Landmarks in Sultanahmet

If you want to really feel Istanbul’s history—touching ancient stones, tasting local food, and hearing stories from someone who knows every corner—this tour brings it all together in one day. You’ll walk away with memories (and maybe a few treasures from the bazaar) that stick with you long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

We kicked off our morning right in the heart of Sultanahmet, where the city’s layers of history seem to hum beneath your feet. The air was cool and a bit salty from the Bosphorus, and you could hear the distant call to prayer mixing with the chatter of street vendors setting up for the day. Our guide, Emre, had a knack for weaving stories about sultans and emperors as we walked toward Hagia Sophia. Standing inside, I couldn’t help but stare up at those golden mosaics—somehow even more impressive when you catch the sunlight filtering through the high windows. It’s wild to think this place has seen so many centuries pass by.

Next up was the Blue Mosque. You’ll notice right away why it gets its name—the blue Iznik tiles really do glow in the morning light. There’s a quiet buzz here: locals coming in to pray, tourists tiptoeing around with scarves borrowed at the door. Emre pointed out little details I would’ve missed, like the marble columns that feel cool to the touch even on a warm day. Just outside, we wandered through what used to be the Hippodrome. It’s hard to picture chariot races now, but you can still see the old Egyptian Obelisk and hear school kids giggling as they chase pigeons around the square.

By midday, we ducked into a small café near the Grand Bazaar for lunch—simple lentil soup and fresh bread (the kind that’s still warm when it hits your table). The bazaar itself is a maze: 400 shops packed into covered lanes, each one overflowing with carpets, ceramics, and that sweet smell of apple tea. I tried my hand at bargaining for a small tile—didn’t do great, but it was fun chatting with the shopkeeper about his family’s stall.

Our last stop was Topkapi Palace. The courtyards are peaceful, with stray cats sunning themselves on old stone walls. Inside, you’ll see relics like Prophet Muhammad’s cloak and sword—Emre explained their significance with real care. There’s something about standing where sultans once made decisions that shaped half the world. We finished up at Little Hagia Sophia Mosque—a quieter spot where you can actually hear your own footsteps echo on ancient tiles.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Istanbul Old City Highlights

• Explore Byzantine and Ottoman sites
• Visit Hagia Sophia
• Visit Blue Mosque
• Visit Hippodrome and Obelisks
• Shop at Grand Bazaar
• Visit Topkapi Palace

Top questions

How much walking is involved on this Istanbul Old City tour?

You’ll be on your feet most of the day exploring historic sites and markets. Wear comfy shoes—it’s mostly flat but there are some cobblestones.

Is lunch included? What kind of food is served?

Yes, lunch is included at a local spot near the Grand Bazaar. Expect simple Turkish dishes like lentil soup and fresh bread—vegetarian options are usually available.

Are entrance fees for Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace covered?

All entrance fees for included attractions are covered in your tour price. No need to worry about extra tickets on the day.

Will there be time for shopping at the Grand Bazaar?

You’ll have some free time to browse or shop at your own pace inside the bazaar. There are hundreds of stalls selling everything from carpets to sweets.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pick-up and drop-off by air-conditioned minibus, an English-speaking local guide who knows Istanbul inside out, all entrance fees for listed sites, plus lunch at a neighborhood café. Just bring your curiosity—and maybe some lira for souvenirs!