Discover Istanbul and its fascinating ottoman relics with this half-day afternoon tour. The tour will begin with a visit of the Topkapi Palace, residence of Ottoman Sultans exhibiting imperial treasury, sacred Islamic relics of Prophet Mohammed, Chinese porcelain, weapons, calligraphy and much more. Please note that live guided commentary is not allowed in special sections (Harem is not included in the program).
Topkapi grew and changed with the centuries, but the palace's basic four-courtyard plan remained the same. The Ottomans followed the Byzantine practice of secluding the monarch from the people: the first court was open to all; the second only to people on imperial business; and the third and fourth only to the imperial family, VIPs and palace staff. Discover more about the palace's history while your expert guide takes you through.
The second part of this half-day afternoon tour includes a visit to the Sultan Tombs. There are five tombs of Ottoman Sultans within the graveyard at Hagia Sophia. The ceramic panels are the most beautiful examples of the 16th century, with purple, red, green and blue flower motives. Prince robes and a small piece from the Kaaba covers are displayed on the sarcophaguses. Don't miss out on the best of Istanbul's Ottoman relics on this tour!
