The second palace built in Istanbul after the conquest, Topkapi Palace was constructed between 1465 and 1478. Successive sultans added various sections, giving the palace a somewhat eclectic architectural style. Unlike many other palaces, Topkapi was perhaps the most modest yet served as a palace-city for around 4,000 inhabitants. The palace complex covers an impressive area of 70 hectares (173 acres).

This magnificent temple was commissioned by Roman Emperor Justinian in 537 AD. Upon completion, Justinian famously declared, “Solomon, I have surpassed thee,” as it was the largest church of its time and remained so for nearly 916 years. In 1453, Sultan Mehmed II converted it into a mosque, where it served for about 483 years. In 1934, under the leadership of Turkey’s first president Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, it was transformed into a museum. Today, it is once again functioning as a mosque.

Once a stadium for horse races, gladiator battles, theatrical performances, and political events, the Hippodrome was renamed At Meydanı (Horse Square) during Ottoman times, used as a horse training ground. Three ancient monuments still stand here: the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpent Column, and the Column of Constantine.

Board a private boat for a scenic 2-hour Bosphorus cruise, featuring 1 hour along the European side and 1 hour along the Asian side of Istanbul, accompanied by a licensed professional guide.

The tour concludes with a visit to a traditional Turkish market (bazaar), where you can explore and sample local delights such as Turkish delights, spices, and other authentic products.