Immerse yourself in the history, heritage, and culture of Istanbul on this full-day outing. Visit landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and Hippodrome in the morning, stroll through the Grand Bazaar before a tasty Turkish lunch, and then walk in the footsteps of Ottoman sultans at the Topkapi Palace.

After you're picked up from your hotel, begin your outing in the Sultanahmet District, in the heart of Istanbul's Old City. Hear about what life was like in the city during the Byzantine and Ottoman empires as you make your way to the Hagia Sophia, whose iconic dome and minarets have dominated Istanbul's skyline for centuries. Admire the blue Iznik tiles that decorate the Blue Mosque, (Blue Mosque cannot be visited on Fridays because of Friday pray ) and then visit the Hippodrome, to see the Obelisk of Theodosius and the bronze Serpent Column.

From there, make your way into the atmospheric bustle of the Grand Bazaar. Stroll by stalls overflowing with antiques, jewelry, gold, fine embroidered carpets, and beautiful leather goods, and then head to a traditional Turkish restaurant for delicious lunch.

The afternoon continues with a fascinating visit to Topkapi Palace, the opulent residence of Ottoman Sultans. Stroll through park-like pavilions and see priceless artifacts like sacred Islamic relics and beautiful calligraphy. Hear about the complicated rules governing life in the palace, and then visit The Hagia Irene located in the outer courtyard of Topkapi Palace is the oldest church of the Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantine). It was also the second largest church in Istanbul after Hagia Sophia. It’s a typical Byzantine structure with its materials and architecture, was built on the site of an old temple in 330.