Istanbul Classics & Highlights

Highlights: Hagia Sophia, Hippodrome, German Fountain, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cictern ,Grand Bazaar, Topkapı Palace, Caferağa Medrese, Soğukçeşme Street, Hagia Irene Church, lunch

We start our program with famous Hagia Sophia, former Greek Orthodox patriarchal cathedral, an imperial mosque during Ottoman Period, a museum since 1935 until 2020, and recently has been turned back into a mosque. Then you will see the German Fountain - a gift of Kaiser Wilhelm 2.  and listen the stories of his liaison with the orient. We continue with Blue Mosque, another imperial mosque from 17th century. Next visit is the Hippodrome of Constantinople, the center of Byzantine civic life, from political and theological controversies to chariot races and riots. Following the visits your guide will take you the Grand Bazaar for demonstration of Turkish Handicrafts.

Magnificent Topkapı Museum is the big one, the most important museum of Turkey and the Balkan Peninsula. It is an incomparably rich treasure chest, brimming with things of historical importance. First, second, third and fourth courtyards; the Audience Hall, Divan-the High Court, Historical Kitchens, Royal Stables, the Treasury, gardens, kiosks. Probably the best commentary on Ottoman History, art and its culture is simply to come direct to the First Courtyard of this amazing Palace. Next place to see is Hagia Irene Church. Our final places of interest are Caferağa Medrese and Soğukçeşme Street. Your lunch will be served en route in a local and authentic restaurant where you will be able to taste various types of local tastes. To see these things with a great guide. Well, you will never be quite the same again.

PRICE INCLUSIVE OF:

• Hotel pick-up & drop-off
• English speaking licenced & professional guiding
• Entrance fee to Topkapı Palace (Harem excluded)
• Entrance fee to Hagia Irene
• Lunch

PRICE EXCLUSIVE OF:

• Personal expenses
• Beverages at lunch

Tours will be available soon on the congress online registration portal.