Step back in time with our captivating Full Day Old City Walking Tour that immerses you in the stunning Byzantine and Ottoman history of Istanbul. Starting with a convenient hotel pick-up, our journey unfolds with a guided tour to the city’s most iconic landmarks.We begin at Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, a marvel built in 537 by Emperor Justinian, which stood as the world’s largest church for 916 years before being converted into a mosque by Sultan Mehmet II in 1453. It is now a mosque once again. This magnificent structure is a testament to centuries of history, religion, and architecture. Next, we visit Topkapı Palace, a sprawling complex built between 1465 and 1478 by the Ottoman sultans. Once home to 4,000 residents, including the sultan’s court, this majestic palace boasts opulent rooms and a vast array of treasures. We’ll then walk by the Hagia Eirene Museum, located in the first courtyard of Topkapı Palace, which was once a significant Byzantine church.Our tour continues with a visit to the Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque), the first six-minaret mosque in Turkey, renowned for its 21,000 beautiful blue tiles adorning the interior. Constructed between 1609 and 1616, it remains an active place of worship for Muslims while welcoming visitors from around the globe.Stroll through the Hippodrome, an ancient stadium that once hosted gladiator fights, horse races, and political gatherings. Today, it is home to historical structures like the Egyptian Obelisk, Serpentine Column, and German Fountain.We break for a traditional Turkish lunch at a local restaurant where you can saver the delicious flavours of Turkish kebabs.Finally, enjoy free time to explore the Grand Covered Bazaar, Istanbul's largest and most famous market, where you can indulge in some shopping and find unique souvenirs. Please note: On Fridays, the tour will be conducted in reverse order to accommodate the Friday prayers at the mosques.