In the company of an expert guide explore Istanbul's must-see sights and discover its hidden gems. Start at 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 Suleyman 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.
*This trip is offered on a "join-in" basis. Maximum group size is 12.

Tour duration: 4 hours

Pickup time: 8:30AM
Pickup location: Intrepid Istanbul office. Address: Divanyolu cad. Ticarethane sok No 11. Kat 1 Sultanahmet.

Drop off time: 12:30PM
Drop-off location: 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.