Duration: 7.5 Hours
Highlights: St. Chora Church, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, Little Hagia Sophia Church, Grand Bazaar

Your tour begins with a warm welcome at Istanbul port, where your guide will be holding a sign with your name. From there, you’ll embark on a scenic drive to the 11th-century St. Chora Church. Known for its exquisite Byzantine mosaics and frescoes, St. Chora Church offers a glimpse into the stunning artistry of the Byzantine Empire. The church’s name, “in Chora,” meaning "in the countryside," hints at its original rural location.

Next, you’ll visit the iconic Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture and one of the most renowned landmarks in Istanbul. With a history spanning over 1,400 years, Hagia Sophia has influenced architectural design across the globe.

After exploring Hagia Sophia, you’ll take a short stroll through the Roman Hippodrome Square, where you can see remnants of ancient buildings and shops built atop earlier settlements. A fascinating stop is the Cistern beneath the Nakkas Store, an underground structure showcasing artefacts from both the Hellenistic and Byzantine eras. The Nakkas Cistern now serves as an exhibition hall, displaying relics from the past.

Your final destination is the Church of SS Sergius and Bacchus, also known as the Little Hagia Sophia. Built by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century, this lesser-known gem offers a serene atmosphere and remarkable architecture.

Before returning to the port, you’ll have some time to explore the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, offering a great chance for optional shopping.

The tour concludes with a comfortable drive back to Istanbul port.