You will be picked up at your hotel at around 09:30 and head out to see the historic sites of the city on this full-day, private tour. Hippodrome and Obelisks (15th century) At this Byzantine site from the 4th century, your guide will show you the Serpentine Column, the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Obelisk of Constantine, and the German Fountain. Blue Mosque (1609-1616) This ornate Ottoman mosque dating from the 17th century is the second-largest mosque in Turkey, and is known for its brilliant Iznik tiles and minarets. Hagia Sophia (532-537) One of oldest Greek Orthodox churches of the Byzantine era dates back to the 6th century. During the Ottoman Empire it was used as a mosque and today it is a museum. Grand Bazaar (1461) One of the oldest and biggest bazaars in the world features over 4,000 shops in a covered marketplace. Wander through the bazaar and marvel at the vast array of goods on offer. Enjoy a lunch of fresh, traditional Turkish dishes at a cozy restaurant. Topkapi Palace (1478) For more than 400 years, the Palace was home to Ottoman sultans and their courts. Visit the imperial treasury, and see sacred relics of the prophet Mohammed, John the Baptist, and the prophet Musa. See one of the most valuable diamonds in the world, weighing 86 carats. Note that the Harem section is not included in the program, and an additional fee applies for admission. Little Hagia Sophia Mosque (527-536) This early domed basilica is one of the oldest standing churches in Istanbul. It was originally a temple founded by Emperor Justinian during the golden age of the Roman Empire. This church was converted into a mosque in 1497, during the Ottoman Empire.