OVERVIEW: On the Istanbul Favorites Tour; Hagia Sophia, Palace of Topkapi, Serefiye Cistern tour, Egyptian Spice Market and the active Blue Mosque one experiences some core sites of unforgettable Istanbul, the 2010 European Capital of Culture.  Our licensed Archaeologous guide will show you why Istanbul was, and is, the crossroads of cultures. Istanbul is the only city in the world that spans two continents and has the rich blending of ancient cultures that have left their marks on the cuisine, architecture and customs.

INCLUDED: licensed guide (languages available -request when booking), A/C vehicle and dependable driver

NOT INCLUDED: entrance fees, lunch, and tips (appreciated when deserved)

HIGHLIGHTS: Hagia Sophia, Underground Serefiye Cistern, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, time for lunch, and the Spice (Egyptian) Market 

On this full day shore excursion, you'll experience: The 1500 year old Byzantine masterpiece, Hagia Sophia. It was the largest building in the world for over 1,000 years. It's still universally considered one of the most beautiful buildings ever built. The exotic underground 1600 year ol d-newly discovered- Serefiye Cistern. Then the opulent landmark, the Topkapi Palace. Afterwards, time for a great Turkish lunch before continuing on to the glorious Blue Mosque. This building's entire interior is an exquisite piece of art and is covered with over twenty thousand hand painted tiles and two hundred sixty stained glass windows. Last, is the exciting, colorful and aromatic Spice Market, for gifts and souvenirs that range from teas, spices, and copper tea sets, to jewelry, silk scarves, leather goods and more.

FYI: At both Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque it is required that head, shoulders and knees not be bare. So scarves, long pants, or long skirts are appropriaate. Also, please no photos of people in prayer. PS. There are occasionally renovations in parts of the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace is closed Tuesdays. (A substitute location of Archaeological Museum is offered)

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