Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace Tour

• Admission fee: The admission fee for the Hagia Sophia is required and it's recommended to purchase tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
• History and architecture: Your local expert guide can provide a detailed explanation of the history of Hagia Sophia and the architecture of Hagia Sophia, including its religious significance and the unique features of its construction.
• Mosaics and frescoes: There are a number of stunning mosaics and frescoes located throughout the Hagia Sophia, including the famous mosaic of the Virgin Mary and Child. Your guide can point out these details and explain their meaning and significance.
• Audio guide: An audio guide is available for rent inside the Hagia Sophia for an additional fee. This can be a helpful resource if you'd like to learn more about the site's history and features in a self-paced manner.

• Shoe covers: Visitors are required to remove their shoes before entering the Blue Mosque, and shoe covers will be provided to protect the mosque's carpets.
• Prayer times: The Blue Mosque is an active place of worship, and visitors are asked to be respectful of the mosque's prayer times. Your guide can provide information on the daily prayer schedule and help you plan your visit accordingly.
• Art and design: Your guide can point out the beautiful art and design elements of the Blue Mosque, including the stunning tile work, stained glass windows, and calligraphy.

• Admission fee: The admission fee for the Topkapi Palace gardens is required, but it is less expensive than admission to the palace itself.
• Bosphorus views: The Topkapi Palace garden offers stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait and the surrounding city. Your guide can point out notable landmarks and provide historical context for the area.
• Imperial kitchens: The imperial kitchens of Topkapi Palace are located in the garden area and offer a unique glimpse into Ottoman culinary traditions. Your guide can provide information on the types of dishes prepared here and their cultural significance.

Read More: Reasons to Visit Topkapi Palace

• Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks.
• Admire the impressive dome and intricate mosaics and frescoes that adorn the interior of the cathedral-turned-mosque-turned-museum.
• Learn about the significance of the building to both the Christian and Muslim faiths, and how it has shaped the history of Istanbul over the centuries.

Check More:  Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern

• Step inside this active place of worship and marvel at the beautiful tile work, stained glass windows, and calligraphy that decorate the interior.
• Learn about the mosque's history and significance, including its construction during the Ottoman era.
• Take in the peaceful ambiance of the mosque and appreciate its unique place in Istanbul's cultural and religious landscape.

Ckeck Out:  Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace

• Enjoy a relaxing stroll through the serene gardens of Topkapi Palace, which offer stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait and the city skyline.
• Explore the imperial kitchens, which offer a fascinating glimpse into Ottoman culinary traditions.
• Learn about the history and culture of Istanbul as you take in the beauty and tranquility of the palace gardens.

Check Out: City Half-Day Tour and Istanbul Topkapı Palace

• Public Transport: Istanbul has an extensive public transport network consisting of buses, trams, and metro lines. You can take the tram T1 line and get off at the Sultanahmet stop. Both Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque are within walking distance of this station. Alternatively, you can take bus lines 80, 81, or 336E and get off at the Gülhane stop, which is close to Topkapi Palace.
• Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Istanbul, and you can hail them on the street or book them through apps like BiTaksi or iTaksi. Make sure to agree on the fare beforehand or ask the driver to use the meter.
• Private Tour: Another option is to book a private tour that includes transportation, entry tickets, and a guide. This option is convenient if you want to skip the queues and get an in-depth tour of the attractions.

Location: Topkapi Palace Museum, Cankurtaran, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey

Click here to Know: How to Reach Topkapi Palace

The best time to visit the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace tour is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and fall (September to November). The weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season. It's also recommended to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the busiest times of the day. Remember to check the opening times and plan accordingly.

Timings

During Winter: 9 AM to 4:45 PM

During Summer: 9 AM to 6 PM

 Closed Dates: Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays and first day of Ramadan

Check Out: Activities to Do Near Topkapi Palace

• The morning part of the tour involves a walking tour, so wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather.
• Expect to spend about 30 minutes in the security line at the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque during off and mid-seasons, but this time can increase to 90 minutes during high season. Plan accordingly.
• The grand bazaar tour is self-guided as every customer has different expectations. You will also visit a leather shop during the tour.
• Pick-up service is only available from hotels located in specific areas, including Sisli, Osmanbey, Harbiye, Taksim, Findikli, Karakoy, Tepebasi, Sirkeci, Sultanahmet, Kadirga, Beyazit, Laleli, Aksaray, Yenikapi, Findikzade, and Topkapi.
• The transfer service is shared, so early or late pick-up may be possible. Be sure to confirm your pick-up time with the tour operator in advance.

Check Out: Hotels Near Topkapi Palace