Hidden Istanbul

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After a basic Orientation of the must sees and a visit to the grand Blue Mosque we get off the beaten track to discover Hidden istanbul. We explore the Grand Bazzar, Suleymainye Mosque Complex, Rustem Pasha Mosque with our local guide who points out the best photographic opportunities. We also head into the hectic trading district before delving in to the local Markets to treat our taste buds and following our noses to the Famous Spice market to taste test authentic Turkish Delight.

Highlights:

Discover the secrets haunts of locals in Sultanahmet and explore the back streets to visit hard to find sites.
Walk the ancient highway to Rome"Divanyolu".
Explore Mosques with a local and gain an insight into Islam.
Explore the labyrinth that is the Grand Bazzar.
Be stunned by stellar views of Istanbul and hear tales of both Byzantine and Ottoman drama and intrigue.
Photograph breathtaking ceramic tiles
Treat the gourmet in you.
Taste testing local cheeses,dried fruits and famous pistachio nuts in local market stalls.
Wander the Spice Market, try delicious authentic Turkish delight.

Tour style:Local Life & Culture, Walking & Orientation, Food/Cuisine & Market, Heritage & History
Inclusion:

English speaking guide, walking tour of Hippodrome, Blue Mosque and Sultanahmet, tour of the Grand Bazaar, Book Bazaar, Beyazit Mosque, tea at Local teahouse in Suleymainye, visit to Suleymainye Mosque Complex, Rustem pasha mosque and adventures in the local fresh food markets and Spice market

Exclusion:

Extra Drinks and additional food stuff shopping, Aya Sofya entrance is not included, tips or gratuities for your local guide.

Group size:Maximum 12
Schedule details:

Duration: 4 hours
Meeting point:
Intrepid Istanbul office. Address: Divanyolu cad. Ticarethane sok No 5. Kat 1 Sultanahmet.
Start time: 8.30 AM
Finish point:
Sultanahmet. Your local guide can provide instructions on how to get back to your hotel or you are free to continue your own personal exploration.

Additional information :

Voucher exchange details:
Please present your voucher to the local guide at the beginning of the trip.
Confirmation of booking:
Please contact Istanbul Urban Adventures to confirm your trip 24 hours prior to departure.
Dress standard:
Please be aware that the standard of Dress through out Turkey is both conservative and modern. On this walking tour we visit a variety of Mosques. To respect this and for your own comfort we recommend modest clothing. This means clothing that covers your shoulders and knees for both men and women. We would also request that women have their own scarf to cover their heads which can be easily purchased in istanbul. The weather in Istanbul is highly variable depending on the time of year. Winters range from freezing cold to extremely hot and humid in Summer (June, July and August).
Child policy:
Children must be aged 6 to 11 years inclusively. Children below the age of 6 are not permitted on this tour.
Language: English

Itinerary:

In the company of an expert guide explore Istanbul’s must-see sights and discover its hidden gems. Start in the heart of Sultanahmet we pass by Aya Sofya, a Byzantine church turned mosque. From here, walk the famous hippodrome known as At Meydani or Horses Square, once the site of great chariot races. The next stop is the Blue Mosque, a peaceful building resplendent with 6 minarets. Following this we make our way across to walk Divanyolu, an historical thoroughfare originally mapped out by Emperor Constantine, in the early 300s AD.

Your guide will point out places to get the best coffee, pastries and show you the main points of interest along the way. For a change of pace, explore the Grand bazaar famed internationally as the first ever shopping mall! Take a look at the incredible array of goods for sale in any of the 4000 shops. Also stop by the book bazaar where the first printed book in Turkey was sold in 1729. Just behind the Book bazaar is Beyazit Camii where your local guide will teach you about Islam, the mosque and the roles both play in Turkish society. Visit the Istanbul University built by the reforming Ottoman Sultans, then explore the beautifully symmetrical Mosque of Süleyman the Magnificent. Dive into Istanbul’s hectic trading to explore crumbling Byzantine buildings and Ottoman architectural relics. Rub shoulders with local shoppers as you explore markets filled with nuts, vegetables and cheeses. Take time to visit a local deli and taste cold meats and sit down to enjoy a coffee before heading to the Egyptian Spice Market. Learn about the spices for sale and try some traditional-style Turkish delight. The adventure ends at the busy Eminou port, close to Galata Bridge, the perfect spot to continue your Istanbul explorations.

Your trip:

This trip is offered on a "join-in" basis. Maximum group size is 12.

Tipping:

If you are happy with the services provided by your local guides and drivers a tip - though not compulsory - is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, it is of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many Intrepid Urban Adventures destinations. Please consider this when budgeting for your extra expenses on this tour

Cancellations made more than 2 days prior to travel receive a full refund
Cancellations made 2 days or less prior to travel attract a 100% cancellation fee.

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Price range: USD

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