As you move toward the heart of Istanbul, you will encounter the Hagia Sophia Mosque, one of the most significant monuments in history. Originally a church, later a mosque, and now also serving as a museum, this building is a Byzantine masterpiece dating back to the 6th century. With its mosaics, architecture, and historical ambiance, Hagia Sophia captivates visitors and becomes an unmissable stop on your Istanbul tour.
Tour Experience: Istanbul's Gems
Istanbul’s Gems is a unique city that offers a new beauty to discover in every corner, with its rich history and breathtaking views. If you want to explore the most important sites of this ancient city on a day tour, you can follow this route that has become symbolic of Istanbul. Here is a magnificent one-day Istanbul tour, starting from Çamlıca Hill and ending at the Eyüp Sultan Mosque:
Istanbul's Gems on Çamlıca Hill and Çamlıca Mosque
Starting your day in Istanbul from Çamlıca Hill, one of the city’s most stunning viewpoints, is an excellent choice. Located on the Anatolian side, this hill is the perfect spot to enjoy a panoramic view of the city. You’ll be greeted by the unique blue of the Bosphorus and the magnificent sight of the historic peninsula. The Çamlıca Mosque, situated on the hill, has become one of Istanbul’s new symbols with its modern architecture and majestic design. A morning walk here, paired with a coffee while enjoying the view, will energize you for the rest of the day.
Hagia Sophia Mosque
Sultanahmet Square
Located right next to Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet Square is the perfect place for those who want to deeply experience Istanbul’s historic atmosphere. Once used as a Hippodrome during the Roman Empire, the square today hosts numerous monuments reflecting both Ottoman and Byzantine history. While walking through the square, you can admire historical landmarks such as the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column, and the German Fountain, fully enjoying this magnificent historic square in the heart of Istanbul.
Basilica Cistern
Just a few steps from Sultanahmet Square, the Basilica Cistern is an excellent place to explore Istanbul’s mysterious underground world. Built in the 6th century by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, this massive water reservoir, with its columns and dim lighting, resembles a film set. Famous for its enigmatic details, such as the Medusa heads, the Basilica Cistern offers fascinating stories about the city’s past.
Istanbul's Gems at Topkapi Palace
Topkapi Palace, one of Istanbul’s most important historical landmarks, is renowned as the seat of the Ottoman Empire for over 400 years. Just a short walk from Sultanahmet, this palace captivates visitors with its magnificent Bosphorus views, expansive gardens, and historic buildings. Inside, you can explore the Harem section, the sacred relics, and the sultan’s private collections. Topkapi Palace is an unmissable stop in Istanbul, both for its architectural beauty and historical significance.
