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Istanbul: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Small-Group Tour
Historical Tours 3 hours 4.7 · 171 reviews Offered in: German, English

Istanbul: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Small-Group Tour

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Overview

Join a small-group walking tour of the two most famous monuments in Istanbul: the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia.
Benefit from pre-reserved tickets for the Hagia Sophia
Enjoy a scenic stroll around Sultanahmet and witness the local life with a professional guide.
Experience the splendor and charm of Islamic architecture in the Blue Mosque.
Discover the history and culture of the Ottoman and Byzantine Empires.
Get tips from your guide at the end of the tour to continue exploring Istanbul independently.

  • Recommended by 98% of travelers
  • Badge of Excellence
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
  • Mobile ticket

What's included

3 hours walking tour at a relaxed pace

Small group tour for a more interactive experience

Expert guide for insider's knowledge of the city

Pre-reserved tickets for the Hagia Sophia

Guided tour for the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia

Transport to the meeting spot

Meeting and pickup

Travelers meet at the meeting point.

Meeting point

We meet at Ersoy Bufe. This is a small food kiosk just by the side of the Hippodrome in Sultanahmet Square. It is across the German Fountain. Your guide will be in front of the Ersoy Bufe with a sign that says, “Walks in Europe.”

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Good to know

Please meet your guide and join the tour. Your voucher is not an admission ticket.

What to expect

  1. Sultanahmet Square

    10 min

    Check out Istanbul's greatest monuments on this small walking tour. Meet your dedicated guide at a hot spot for traditional Turkish delicacies, where there are restroom facilities and you can purchase water or snacks.
    Enjoy a scenic stroll around Sultanahmet and witness the local life with a professional guide.

  2. Blue Mosque

    1 hour 15 min

    The Blue Mosque is the most visited monument in Istanbul. Your tour will start in the Sultanahmet neighborhood which takes its name from the mosque.
    Marvel at this imperial Ottoman Mosque, commissioned by Sultan Ahmet the first and the last one built in this grand size. Witness the evocative power and splendor of its past as you enjoy a comprehensive guided tour of the Blue Mosque and its complementary buildings with a professional guide.
    Afterwards, enjoy the courtyard for breathtaking views of modern Istanbulites and take a gentle stroll around the neighborhood. 

  3. Hagia Sophia Mosque

    1 hour 15 min

    Visit the Hagia Sophia with pre-reserved tickets and witness the most significant site of the Greek Orthodox religion in Istanbul. Learn how it was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople.
    In the Hagia Sophia, see elements of a mosque and a church standing next to each other. Admire the basilica’s stunning dome and minarets, and countless mosaics, paintings, and marble columns.
    Learn how the impressive İznik tiles were added over time in the Mosque, how the stunning Virgin Mary mosaic was made, and why the Ottomans chose to bury their sultans in the courtyard.

  4. Hippodrome

    15 min

    Walk the famous hippodrome of Constantinople. Learn about the obelisks that adorn the square.
    Take a break between two major monuments for the best views and learn about the significance of the hippodrome during the Byzantine times of the city.

  5. Arasta Bazaar

    5 min

    Explore the Arasta Bazaar nestled right under the shadow of the Blue Mosque to understand 17th Century architecture of public buildings. It is a well-known but modest open-air market in the heart of Sultanhamet.
    Enjoy a last-minute tea break and hunt for gifts to take home.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.

Times are local to the experience (Europe/Istanbul).

Additional Information

  • Tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.
  • Mobile or paper ticket accepted
  • Up to 15 travelers per booking
  • Each booking must include at least one adult.

FAQs about Istanbul: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Small-Group Tour

Can I cancel Istanbul: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Small-Group Tour for free?

Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.

How long does it take?

It takes about 3 hours.

Where does it start?

We meet at Ersoy Bufe. This is a small food kiosk just by the side of the Hippodrome in Sultanahmet Square. It is across the German Fountain.

What's included?

  • 3 hours walking tour at a relaxed pace
  • Small group tour for a more interactive experience
  • Expert guide for insider's knowledge of the city
  • Pre-reserved tickets for the Hagia Sophia
  • Guided tour for the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia

What's not included?

  • Transport to the meeting spot

Which places does it visit?

It visits Sultanahmet Square, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia Mosque, Hippodrome, Arasta Bazaar.

Which languages is it offered in?

It is offered in German, English.

Is it suitable for children?

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Operated by Walks In Europe

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