Istanbul Full-Day Classics
Hippodrome: This site of Roman chariot races was the heart of the city in ancient times, it features the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column and the Brick Obelisk.
St. Sophia: This renowned Byzantine basilica, built by Justinian in the 6th century, stands as an architectural marvel, with its immense dome.
Modern Arts Museum : Opened its doors in December 2004 thanks to Eczacibasi family, this is the first and only Modern Arts museum in Istanbul. It's housed at renovated old docks in Karakoy district facing Topkapi Palace, with a rich library, exhibitions, photograph gallery, sculpture courtyard, movie theater, cafe and souvenir shop. One can find in this private museum very nice instances on Turkish contemporary Arts. Open daily between 10:00a.m. - 6:00 p.m. except Mondays.
Grand Bazaar: Time for strolling and browsing at leisure through the labrynthine passages and hundreds of tiny shops in this fascinating covered complex.
Note: St. Sophia is closed on Mondays, Underground Cistern will be visited instead.
Sultanahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque): This mosque, with its celebrated blue Iznik tiles and six minarets, was built in the 17th century by Sultan Ahmet.
Topkapi Palace: From the late 15th to the 19th century the Ottoman Sultans presided over their far-flung empire from this palace. Costumes, armory, weaponry and Chinese porcelain are extensive and impressive. There are eating and resting facilities for visitors on the palace grounds with a great view. Open daily between 9:30 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. except Tuesdays.
Treasury Section: The most attractive exhibition halls of the palace is treasury section with collections of jewels, Islamic holly relics, costumes of the Sultans.
