Experience the splendor of Ottoman history with our Topkapi Palace, Hagia Irene & Sultan Tombs Relics Tour — a compact yet immersive journey through the heart of the former imperial capital.
Tour Highlights 1. Topkapi Palace Museum Step into the official residence of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. Explore the courtyards, imperial halls, and treasury. - See the Sacred Relics collection, including items attributed to prophets and early Islamic history. - Learn about palace protocol, daily life, and the power structure of the empire.
2. Hagia Irene (Aya İrini) Located within the outer courtyard of Topkapi Palace, this serene Byzantine church became an Ottoman armory and later a museum. - Discover one of the few churches in Istanbul that was never converted into a mosque. - Admire its simple, powerful architecture and unique acoustics. - Hear how it bridges Byzantine and Ottoman eras.
3. Sultan Tombs Visit the richly decorated mausoleums of Ottoman sultans and their families (near Hagia Sophia). - See intricate Iznik tiles, calligraphy, and fine interior details. - Learn the stories of the sultans buried here and Ottoman burial traditions.
01 Topkapı Palace
Topkapı Palace, residence of Ottoman Sultans exhibiting imperial treasury, sacred Islamic relics
of Prophet Mohammed, kitchen, Chinese porcelain, weapons, calligraphy section etc. Live guide commentary is not allowed in special sections. (Harem is not included in the program)
02 The Hagia
The Hagia Irene located in the outer courtyard of Topkapı Palace is the oldest church of the Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantine). It was also the second largest church in İstanbul after Hagia Sophia. It’s a typical Byzantine structure with its materials and architecture, was built on the site of an old temple in 330.
03 Sultan Tombs
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.
Duration Approximately 3–4 hours, designed to give a rich overview without feeling rushed.
Live guide commentary is not allowed in special sections at Topkapı Palace
Harem is not included in the program
Topkapı Palace is closed on tuesday
What’s Included - Professional, licensed English-speaking guide - Entrance tickets to: - Topkapi Palace Museum - Hagia Irene - Sultan Tombs (where ticketed/if applicable)
Not Included (typical, can vary by operator) - Hotel pickup/drop-off (unless specified) - Food and drinks - Personal expenses and tips
The tour can be canceled up to 24 hours before the start time.
Make your reservation now, pay anytime before the tour starts.
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