Want to visit the most famous landmarks in Turkey? We’ve got you covered! In this full day trip, you’ll explore the best historic sites in Istanbul all in one day, with the help and knowledge of your friendly Trip Guru! Our first stop is the classic and ever-popular Hagia Sophia. This great architectural masterpiece boasts a long and storied history, serving as a church, mosque, and now museum. We’ll take in the beauty of the structure with its towering minarets before heading to our next stop. The Blue Mosque, given its nickname from the myriad blue tiles that are embedded in its design, is actually named after Sultan Ahmed I when it was built in the early 1600s. Its stunning facade and design make it the city’s must-see sights. After filling our camera rolls with photos of the Blue Mosque, we’ll head to Topkapi Palace. This opulent structure once served as the administrative headquarters of the Ottoman sultans during the 15th and 16th centuries. Today, its beauty is still a sight to behold, with many flocking to the palace to take photos. We’ll stop for lunch at a local eatery before heading to our next stop, the Hippodrome and the Obelisk of Theodosius. The Obelisk was originally commissioned by the Egyptian Pharaoh Tuthmosis II in the 15th century BC. It was erected in the Hippodrome (a place originally built to race horses during the Roman period) by Theodosius in 388. After marveling at the history of the hippodrome and the obelisk, we’ll make our way to the Suleymaniye Mosque. While not as popular as Hagia Sophia or the Blue Mosque, Suleymaniye is known for its staggering size and beautiful architecture. It was designed by the legendary architect Mimar Sinan and was considered to be one of his masterpieces. Our last stop of the day is the Grand Bazaar. As one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, a trip to Turkey would not be complete without a visit to this iconic landmark. Stroll through the numerous stalls and go shopping for some souvenirs to commemorate the day’s adventure.

Inside of Blue Mosque

Blue Mosque

Topkapi Palace

Suleymaniye Mosque

Hagia Sophia

Topkapi Palace

Blue Mosque

Grand Bazaar

Suleymaniye Mosque

Hippodrome and the Obelisk of Theodosius

Grand Bazaar

Hagia Sophia

inside of Topkapi Palace