10:45 Yerebatan Saranci
Yerebatan Saranci also known as the Basilica Cistern, is an ancient underground water cistern located in Istanbul, Turkey. Dating back to the 6th century, it was built during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I to provide water for the city's palaces and buildings. The cistern is famous for its large columns, including two that feature the head of Medusa carved into their bases. It has been featured in several films and TV shows, including James Bond's "From Russia with Love" and Dan Brown's "Inferno". Today, visitors can tour the cistern and marvel at its unique atmosphere and historical significance.
The legend says that whoever looked at Medusa became stone. Also, old emperors used to chill out in the water is there during summertime. This tourist attraction is underground and extremely unique.
Yerebatan Sarancı and in Engliah: Basilica Cistern
(0212) 512 15 70
https://maps.app.goo.gl/moHfcU29TrNiQn2F8?g_st=ic
11:45 leaving Yerebatan Saranci and walk to the next location - 6 minutes walk
12:00 Topkapi Sara’yı (Palace)
Topkapi Sarayi, also known as the Topkapi Palace, is a historic palace.
Built in the 15th century, it was once the residence of Ottoman Sultans and served as the center of the governing administration of the Ottoman Empire.
As a visitor to Topkapi Sarayi, there are several main areas to see. The first is the Imperial Council Chamber, where the sultans used to meet with high-ranking officials. From there, you can explore the Second Court, which contains the Palace Kitchens, the Treasury, and the Harem where the sultan's wives and concubines lived.
The Third Court houses the Audience Chamber, where the sultan would meet with ambassadors and other important guests. Other highlights of the palace include the Imperial Harem, the Fourth Court, and the gardens, which offer stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait.
Overall, Topkapi Sarayi is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Turkish history and culture.
13:30 walking for lunch 15 minutes walk to the old market
14:00 Lunch at Nusr-et
Nusr-Et Steakhouse Sandal Bedesteni
(0212) 568 77 38
https://maps.app.goo.gl/DKyvDretmCWzkTjr8?g_st=ic
15:00 end of lunch and a free hour or more to walk around Kapali Carsi - Grand Bazaar
Kapali Carsi or the "Grand Bazaar" is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, located in the heart of Istanbul. It is a bustling and vibrant marketplace spread over 60 streets and alleys, with thousands of shops selling everything from jewelry, textiles, carpets, ceramics, spices, and more.
Visitors to the Grand Bazaar should definitely check out the impressive goldsmiths and silverware shops, as well as the traditional Turkish sweets and pastries. There are also numerous Turkish coffee, tea, and spice shops where visitors can enjoy the aromatic scents and flavors of Turkish cuisine.
Another must-see attraction is the Spice Bazaar, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, (around 8 minutes from Nusr-et) which is filled with exotic spices, teas, and sweets.
Egyptian Bazaar
(0212) 513 65 97
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Lz1muxCy9C72Mwrj6?g_st=ic
Overall, the Grand Bazaar and its surrounding areas offer an unforgettable taste of Istanbul's vibrant culture and rich history.
17:30 Galata Kulesi - Galata Tower
From the Egyptian Market you walk 20 minutes to Galata Tower.
Galata Tower, also known as Galata Kulesi in Turkish, is a medieval tower located in the Galata district of Istanbul. It was built in 1348 by the Genoese colony as part of their defense system for the city. The tower stands at a height of 67 meters (220 feet) and offers panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus. Over the years, it has served various purposes ranging from a lookout post for fires to a prison, and today it is a popular tourist attraction that offers a fine dining experience on its top floors. Many visitors come to the tower to enjoy the stunning views and take memorable photos of Istanbul's skyline.
18:00 Beyogulu Walking Street
After Galata Tower you shall walk to Beyogulu