The wonders of Istanbul on a shared tour from Galataport

This tour offers an immersive and efficient way to explore some of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks, guided by a professional, licensed guide. With the convenience of skipping long queues at entrances, you’ll save time and make the most of your visit. The tour is conducted in Italian, making it ideal for Italian-speaking travelers who wish to delve into the fascinating history of Istanbul with expert commentary.

Your journey begins at the Hippodrome, a historical square from the Byzantine era. This location, once the center of Byzantine public life and sports, is home to several significant monuments, including the German Fountain, the Ancient Greek Serpent Column, the Obelisk Column, and the Stone Column. Your guide will share the rich history of this area, providing context and stories from its past, giving you a deeper understanding of its significance in the ancient world.

Next, you will visit the Hagia Sophia, one of the most important and majestic structures in the world. With its stunning architecture, this building has served as a church, a mosque, and now a museum. The guide will explain the unique architectural style and the fascinating history of its interior, revealing why Hagia Sophia has been a symbol of both Byzantine and Ottoman greatness for centuries.

Then, you will head to the Topkapi Palace, which was the residence of the Ottoman sultans and the administrative center of the empire for 400 years. The palace offers an incredible glimpse into the opulence and grandeur of the Ottoman era, with hundreds of rooms, courtyards, and stunning mosaics. You’ll also have the chance to explore the harem, the private quarters where the sultan and his family lived. Your guide will provide an insightful narrative on the history of the palace, its royal inhabitants, and its influence on Ottoman politics and culture.

The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmet Mosque, is another stop on this fascinating journey. Known for its impressive six minarets and cascading domes, this mosque is one of Istanbul's most renowned architectural wonders. The guide will explain the history behind the mosque's construction and its significance in the context of Islamic architecture and Ottoman religious life.

Finally, you will visit the Basilica Cistern, one of the largest and most magnificent underground cisterns in Istanbul. Built during the reign of Emperor Justinian I, this impressive structure was once used to store water for the city. Today, it serves as a mesmerizing historical monument, with its marble columns rising out of the water, creating an almost mystical atmosphere. Your guide will share the fascinating story behind the cistern’s construction and its role in ancient Constantinople’s water system.

This tour offers a perfect blend of history, architecture, and culture, guided by a knowledgeable expert who will bring each location to life. Whether you are interested in the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire or the ancient Byzantine legacy, this tour will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of Istanbul’s rich past.