After breakfast at the hotel, we will depart for Istanbul (257 km/approx 4 hr).
Upon arrival; our Old Town Tour will start at "Sultan Ahmet Square"
where the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires were ruled.
We start visiting the Hippodrome of Constantinople. Previously, it was a
circus that was the sporting and social centre of Constantinople, capital
of the Byzantine Empire. Today it is still possible to see Obelisk(Egyptian
Column); Serpentine Column; Constantine Column and German
Fountain in this area which is used to be held for sportive events (chariot
races, athletics) and political activities of the old city.
Later on continue to visit Blue Mosque(Sultan Ahmet Mosque); famous
with its’ blue İznik tiles and unique with 6 minarets, built under the name of Sultan Ahmet I.
After having lunch in a local restaurant; we will visit Hagia Sophia
(Ayasofya)Grand Mosque, one of the greatest marvels of architecture,
constructed as a basilica in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian and
converted into the mosque by Ottomans and museum at the time of
Turkish Republic until few years back.
Then; we will visit Topkapı Palace, which used to be a residence of Ottoman Sultans exhibiting imperial treasury, Holy Relic Section;
(belonging of prophet Muhammed); kitchen section with
Chinese/Japanese porcelains , armour and guns section, etc.
After having dinner in a local restaurant; we will proceed to hotel and rest.
MEALS :
Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner