Istanbul classics and Ottoman Relics guided tour

See some of Istanbul's most important landmarks on a tour that combines the city's Byzantine and Ottoman heritage.

Start by visiting the Sultanahmet Centre, the heart of the Old City and the historic seat of both empires. Step inside Hagia Sophia, the Church of the Divine Wisdom, originally built as a basilica in the 6th century under Emperor Justinian and renowned for its remarkable architecture.

Continue to the Blue Mosque, facing Hagia Sophia, famous for its blue İznik tiles and its six minarets, built in the name of Sultan Ahmet. In the nearby Hippodrome, once the centre of sporting events and political life in the city, you'll see monuments including the Serpentine Column, the Obelisk of Theodosius and the German Fountain of Wilhelm II.

You'll then have time to browse the Grand Bazaar, one of the world's largest covered markets, home to nearly 4,000 shops selling antiques, jewellery, gold, carpets, leather goods and souvenirs.

After lunch at a Turkish restaurant, you'll visit Topkapı Palace, the former residence of Ottoman Sultans. The palace houses collections including the imperial treasury, sacred Islamic relics of the Prophet Mohammed, Chinese porcelain, weapons and calligraphy. Your entrance also includes access to the Harem, which you can visit independently at your own pace.