Discover Old Istanbul: Guided Historical City Tour of Iconic Landmarks

Step into Istanbul’s imperial past with Sanamentum’s guided city tour, specially designed for patients and companions who wish to combine their medical stay with cultural exploration. Straddling Europe and Asia, Istanbul embodies both Eastern mystique and Western influence, offering a unique journey through centuries of history. This tour covers iconic landmarks including Topkapı Palace, Hagia Sophia, Harem, Sultanahmet Square, and the Blue Mosque.

Tour Route

Topkapı Palace – Hagia Sophia – Harem – Sultanahmet Square – Blue Mosque

This tour takes place every Monday – Wednesday – Thursday – Saturday.

Historical Highlights of the Sites

Topkapı Palace

Constructed seven years after the 1453 conquest of Constantinople by Fatih Sultan Mehmet, Topkapı Palace served as the heart of the Ottoman Empire. Visitors today can walk in the footsteps of emperors while exploring the palace’s many wings, courtyards, and collections. As Turkey’s oldest and largest museum, Topkapı offers an unparalleled glimpse into Ottoman history.

Harem of Topkapı Palace

The Harem was the private quarters for women within the palace, including both blood relatives of the sultan and foreign women brought into the court. Spacious and architecturally intricate, the Harem reflects the social and political structure of the Ottoman Empire.

Hagia Irene

Located near Topkapı Palace, Hagia Irene is one of Istanbul’s earliest churches, predating Hagia Sophia. Unlike Hagia Sophia, it was never converted into a mosque and today functions as a museum and occasional concert hall, preserving its Byzantine heritage.

Hagia Sophia

Built in 537, Hagia Sophia is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture and a symbol of Istanbul’s religious history. Over the centuries, it has served as a church, a mosque, and a museum. Today, it functions as a mosque and remains a key cultural and tourist landmark.

The Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque)

Adjacent to Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque is a magnificent example of Ottoman architecture. Constructed in 1612, it features the distinctive İznik-style blue tiles that give the mosque its name. Visitors can compare the architectural and symbolic differences between Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.

Hippodrome & Local Shops

The tour concludes at the Hippodrome, home to historic monuments and artifacts, followed by a stop at local shops for traditional souvenirs and Turkish delights such as baklava.

Tips for Medical Tourists

Accessibility: The walking pace is moderate, suitable for those recovering from procedures.
Duration: The tour lasts approximately 4–5 hours.
Guidance: English-speaking guides are available throughout the tour.
Integration: Ideal for combining with recovery days or post-treatment leisure activities.