Istanbul: Tour of Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia

Visit the two major highlights of historical Istanbul with a small group

See the Hagia Sophia from inside out and enjoy the mosaics gallery

Learn about the Ottomans as you walk through the Topkapi Palace

Visit the Harem quarter in Topkapi Palace to learn about the Sultan's family life

Have the privilege of an expert guide for priority admission and skip-the-line tickets

Itinerary
This is a typical itinerary for this product

Stop At: Sultanahmet District, Istanbul 34122 Turkey

Meet your expert guide and join your small-group walking tour in the heart of Istanbul's old town Sultanahmet to see the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace.
Our meeting spot in Istanbul is at a hot spot for traditional Turkish delicacies, where there are restroom facilities and you can purchase water or snacks.

Duration: 30 minutes

Stop At: Hagia Sophia Museum / Church (Ayasofya), Ayasofya Square, Sultanahmet, Istanbul 34122 Turkey

Enjoy our priority admission and never wait in a line again! See the glory of Hagia Sophia from the 6th Century. Walk to the former altar and listen to your expert guide as he explains the Arabic calligraphy and Byzantine art - all together in one place.

You can climb up the gallery with your guide to see the mosaics surviving from this ancient church, former mosque, and now internationally famous museum.

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

Stop At: Topkapi Palace, Cankurtaran Mahallesi Gulhane Park, Near Sultanahmet Square, Istanbul 34122 Turkey

Continue your journey to Topkapi Palace, the second stop for the day. Here you can explore the palace grounds, courtyards and its Harem on a guided tour.
Marvel at its opulence and mystery and learn about the Ottoman family and their importance in Istanbul's history.

Later on, you will visit the Harem, ruled by the Queen Mother who wielded domestic and political power. The harem housed hundreds of women and family members as well as hundreds of eunuchs, who performed a wide range of duties.
Admire cupboard doors inlaid with mother of pearl and tortoiseshell and stunning Iznik tiles with verses from the Quran.

Your tour will end with a visit to the holy relics and the imperial kitchens.

Duration: 3 hours