Day 3: Istanbul: Sultanahmet Classics

June 9th - Our journey through the heart of historic Istanbul will begin at the majestic Hagia Sophia, a marvel of Byzantine architecture that has served as a cathedral, mosque, and now a museum. Inside, we will admire its soaring dome, ancient mosaics, and the layered history that shaped the city across centuries.

Just steps away, we will continue to the Blue Mosque, known for its cascading domes and six elegant minarets. Its interior, lined with over 20,000 Iznik tiles in shades of blue, offers a peaceful contrast to the bustling square outside.

From there, we will walk to the Hippodrome, once the social and sporting center of Constantinople. Here, we will see historic monuments such as the Egyptian Obelisk, Serpent Column, and the German Fountain—each echoing stories of imperial grandeur.

Next, we descend into the mysterious Underground Cistern, also known as the Basilica Cistern. This atmospheric space, supported by 336 columns and home to the enigmatic Medusa heads, offers a cool and haunting glimpse into the city’s ancient water system.
We’ll then explore the Topkapi Palace Museum, focusing on its highlights: the opulent courtyards, imperial treasures, and sacred relics of the Ottoman Sultans who ruled for centuries from this iconic hilltop residence.

The tour will conclude at the legendary Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. With over 4,000 shops under its vaulted ceilings, it’s the perfect place to wander, sip tea, and perhaps bargain for a keepsake of your journey.
This walking tour offers a vivid immersion into the spiritual, political, and commercial life of Istanbul—then and now. (B, L)