Istanbul Ottoman Splendours Old City Afternoon Half Day Tour

Istanbul Ottoman Splendours Old City Afternoon Half Day Tour

Active

3h - 4h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the heart of Ottoman Istanbul on this half-day afternoon Istanbul Old City guided tour.
Begin your journey at Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans for over four centuries. Visit the Imperial Treasury, Baghdad Kiosk, and Imperial Armory, home to priceless treasures including the famous Spoonmaker’s Diamond. Enjoy a walk through the palace courtyards shaded by centuries-old trees.

Continue your Istanbul Old City (Historic Peninsula) experience with a visit to Hagia Irene Church, one of the few churches in Istanbul never converted into a mosque. The tour concludes with a relaxing walk through Gülhane Park, once part of the outer gardens of Topkapi Palace and the site where the historic Gülhane Edict was proclaimed.

This half-day Istanbul Old City tour is ideal for travelers seeking a compact yet in-depth experience with a professional guide.

Available options

Istanbul Ottoman Splendours Old City Afternoon Half Day Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Professional licensed tour guide

Museum Entrance Fees

Insurance

Hotel pickup and drop-off from the European side and central Istanbul

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Topkapi Palace is one of Istanbul’s most important historical landmarks and a key symbol of the Ottoman Empire. Serving as the residence of Ottoman sultans for nearly four centuries, this impressive palace complex features elegant courtyards, richly decorated halls, and remarkable collections of imperial treasures. Highlights include the Imperial Harem, the sacred relics, and the Treasury, home to world-famous artifacts such as the Spoonmaker’s Diamond. Today, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Topkapi Palace offers visitors an immersive journey into royal life and Ottoman history, making it a must-see attraction in Istanbul’s Old City.

Stop 2

Hagia Irene Church is one of Istanbul’s oldest Byzantine churches, located in the outer courtyard of Topkapi Palace. Unlike Hagia Sophia, it was never converted into a mosque and has preserved its original church character. Today, it is mainly used as a museum and concert venue, admired for its simple architecture and excellent acoustics.

Stop 3

The Baghdad Kiosk is a historic pavilion located within Topkapi Palace in the Cankurtaran district of Fatih, Istanbul, Türkiye. Built in the 17th century to commemorate the Ottoman victory in Baghdad, it is admired for its exquisite Iznik tiles, elegant interior decorations, and panoramic views of the Bosphorus. The kiosk reflects the refined taste and artistic splendor of the Ottoman court

The Outer Imperial Treasury is located within Topkapi Palace in Istanbul, Türkiye. It once served as a storage and exhibition space for the Ottoman Empire’s military equipment and ceremonial items. Today, it functions as part of the palace museum, displaying a rich collection of Ottoman weapons, armor, and artifacts that reflect centuries of imperial military history.

Stop 5

Gülhane Park is one of Istanbul’s oldest public parks, located next to Topkapi Palace and once part of its outer gardens. It is historically significant as the site where the Gülhane Edict was proclaimed, marking an important step in the modernization of the Ottoman Empire. Today, the park is a peaceful green space, popular for its walking paths, mature trees, and views toward the Bosphorus.