Istanbul: Hippodrome Cistern & Turkish Craft Experience

4.75 reviews
Duration
7 Hours
Location
Istanbul Türkiye
Host or Greeter
English, Turkish
Pickup Optional
Please wait at the main security gate of your hotel 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup time.

About This Activity

You’ll commence this unique cultural experience with a warm welcome and a concise briefing from our friendly team, before descending into a 5th‑century underground cistern once reserved for the imperial palace. Beneath the vibrant modern streets, you’ll explore an immersive exhibition that revives the lost grandeur of the ancient Hippodrome through vivid displays, detailed reconstructions, and evocative artifacts. In this atmospheric subterranean setting, every stone and archway whispers stories from Byzantine Constantinople, inviting you to discover the hidden layers of Istanbul’s captivating past.

After immersing yourself in this historical wonder, you’ll ascend to the upper floor for a fascinating session on Turkish carpet artistry. Here, a female master weaver will work live before your eyes—her skilled hands and precise movements revealing centuries of tradition in every intricate knot. This is more than a demonstration; it’s an intimate journey into the cultural heritage of Turkish textile craftsmanship, where you’ll marvel at the brilliant colors, elegant patterns, and the artistry that makes these carpets world‑renowned.

Your exploration continues with a leisurely browsing of an elegant showroom filled with handcrafted carpets, fine ceramics, and artisanal jewelry—each piece a testament to Turkey’s artistic legacy. As a valued guest, you’ll receive a special discount code, making it the perfect opportunity to take home a one‑of‑a‑kind souvenir that embodies both beauty and tradition.

The experience concludes atop our rooftop terrace, where you’ll gaze upon the remaining Hippodrome walls and soak in the panoramic silhouette of historic Istanbul. From this elevated vantage point, the past and present converge in a breathtaking scene—an unforgettable finale to your journey through history, craftsmanship, and culture.

Discover the hidden 5th‑century cistern lying beneath the heart of Istanbul’s Old City.
Explore the immersive Hippodrome Exhibition housed within this ancient cistern.
Witness a skilled female master weaver craft a traditional Turkish carpet by hand.
Browse exquisite artisan carpets, ceramics, and jewelry, all with a special discount.
Admire sweeping rooftop views over the Hippodrome walls and historic Istanbul skyline.

Meeting Point Options

Meeting Address:

Meeting Point Options

This activity includes a designated meeting point. Please arrange your own transportation and arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the departure time.
Entrance To The Hippodrome Cistern
Access To The Hippodrome Exhibition Inside The Cistern
Live Carpet Weaving Demonstration By A Female Artisan
Presentation On Turkish Carpet Art And Crafts
Rooftop Terrace Visit With Views Of The Hippodrome Wall And Old Istanbul
Hotel Pick-Up and Drop-Off
Tips
Personal Expenses
Wheelchair users
Alcohol and drugs
Luggage or large bags
Comfortable clothes
Comfortable shoes

Hotel Pickup Options

Check if your hotel/address is covered: Pickup service is available from selected areas.
You can add your exact address during checkout or up to 24 hours before your activity.
This 60-minute experience is perfect for those passionate about history and traditional crafts, set right beside the ancient Hippodrome in Old Istanbul.
Families are welcome children aged 0 to 11 can join free of charge, making this tour both educational and enjoyable for guests of all ages.
Conveniently located in the heart of Istanbul’s Old City, the tour can be easily combined with visits to nearby landmarks like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.

Select date, participants and language

Adult x 1, Child x 0, Infant x 0

Itinerary

See itinerary

Hotel Pick-up

Start Activities

Arrival & Briefing

30 MinuteVisit

The Istanbul: Hippo Experience

30 MinuteOptional

Lunch Break / Leisure Time

30 MinuteVisit

Return to Hotel

30 MinuteOptional

Customer Reviews

4.7
Based on 5 reviews
J
James B.
3 weeks ago
An fantastic time we had! Highly recommended. Definitely a highlight of our trip!
J
John C.
2 weeks ago
An fantastic value for money. Everything was perfectly organized. Definitely a highlight of our trip!
S
Susan W.
3 weeks ago
An unforgettable time we had! Highly recommended. Definitely a highlight of our trip!
J
James F.
1 month ago
An excellent day out for the whole family. Definitely a highlight of our trip!
S
Susan A.
2 weeks ago
An excellent time we had! Highly recommended. Definitely a highlight of our trip!
Likely to Sell Out
Price from
10.00
per person
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
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