Tour 3 - Byzantine & Ottoman Relics

BM-866

Best price guaranteed

No booking fees

E-ticket/Mobile-voucher

Tour 3 - Byzantine & Ottoman Relics - undefined - Image 1

Tour 3 - Byzantine & Ottoman Relics - undefined - Image 2

Tour 3 - Byzantine & Ottoman Relics - undefined - Image 3

Carbon neutral

8 hoursDuration

Group TourJoin a group of travelers

5 - 79 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Select Date

Best price guaranteedNo credit card or booking fees.Carbon neutral tours.

Highlights

Hagia Sophia

Blue Mosque

Topkapı Palace

Hagia Irene Museum

Itinerary

Venture into the heart of Istanbul’s legendary past on the Byzantine & Ottoman Relics tour, thoughtfully crafted for experienced travelers seeking depth and discovery. Your journey begins in the Sultan Ahmet Center, the vibrant nucleus from which both the Byzantine and Ottoman empires once ruled.

Explore Hagia Sophia, the awe-inspiring Church of Divine Wisdom, a marvel of 6th-century architecture commissioned by Emperor Justinian. The tour continues to the stunning Blue Mosque, with its signature blue İznik tiles and six striking minarets, standing proudly opposite Hagia Sophia.

Step back into ancient times at the Hippodrome, the city’s historic arena for chariot races and public ceremonies. Admire monuments such as the Serpentine Column, Obelisk of Theodosius, and the German Fountain—all silent witnesses to centuries of Istanbul’s evolving story.

The Grand Bazaar, the world’s largest “souk,” beckons with nearly 4,000 shops filled with antiques, jewelry, carpets, and more. Take a break for lunch at a local Turkish restaurant before continuing your exploration at the opulent Topkapı Palace—once home to Ottoman sultans and now a treasure trove of imperial artifacts, sacred relics, and exquisite Chinese porcelain. (Please note: the Harem is not included.)

As a unique highlight, visit Hagia Irene, the oldest church of the Eastern Roman Empire and a rare example of early Byzantine architecture. This comprehensive tour package draws together Istanbul’s most influential landmarks, providing rich context and expert insights—a perfect fit for discerning travelers looking to unravel the city’s complex and fascinating heritage.

What's Included

Entrance Fees

A/C Transportation

Live Guide,

Lunch

Parking fees

Free pick and drop off from city hotels

What's Excluded

Customer Reviews

This tour has not received any customer reviews yet. However, you can expect a good tour as it is run by a trusted travel specialist who has received 1 review for other tours with an average 5.0rating.

Availability

Loading availability...

Monthly Price Comparison

Good to Know

Do you need help from our trip consultants?

If you have any question about this tour or need help with planning a trip, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.

Our travel experts are ready to help.

Why Book with Bookmundi

No credit card or booking fees.

Best price guaranteed.

Carbon neutral tours.

25,000+ trip reviews, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5.

What are customers saying about Bookmundi

4.67/5

Excellent based on 848 customer reviews from

Bronwyn

Booking with Bookmundi is so easy. The website is straightforward and easy to use. Peter Adley is an absolute star! He is quick to respond to my many queries and to offer helpful guidance. I am looking forward to the 2 tours I have booked!

3 weeks ago

Similar Tours You Might Like

Discover our top tours similar to Tour 3 - Byzantine & Ottoman Relics that you might like.

Istanbul Classics and Highlights Full Day

Step into centuries of grandeur with the Istanbul Classics and Highlights Full Day tour, a must-do for anyone visiting this timeless city. Begin at the Roman Hippodrome, where echoes of chariot races linger, then admire the Blue Mosque’s six minarets and the historic German Fountain. The day’s centerpiece is the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, a marvel of Byzantine architecture and spiritual heritage. Continue your exploration with a guided stroll through the bustling Grand Bazaar, where Turkish handicrafts dazzle at every turn, before settling in for a local lunch. The afternoon brings a deep dive into the opulent Topkapi Palace, home to the treasures of Ottoman sultans, followed by exterior visits to the ancient Hagia Irene Church, Caferaga Medrese, and the charming Sogukcesme Street. This sightseeing tour package’s unique selling point is its exceptional guide-led journey through Istanbul’s layered history, ensuring you leave with stories and memories that linger long after the day ends.

8 hours

Bosphorus Cruise, Dolmabahce Palace & Uskudar Full Day

Savor Istanbul’s timeless charm on the Bosphorus Cruise, Dolmabahce Palace & Uskudar Full Day tour—a family-friendly journey blending vibrant history, scenic waters, and authentic tastes. Begin at the lively Spice Bazaar, where your guide unveils the secrets of Turkish herbs and sweets. Cruise the Bosphorus for panoramic views of the city’s legendary landmarks: Dolmabahce Palace, the ancient Walls of Constantine, and the opulent Topkapi Palace. Cross continents from Beşiktaş to Üsküdar for a local lunch, then dive into Üsküdar’s Ottoman heritage with visits to masterful mosques by architect Sinan and bustling local markets. The day concludes with an in-depth tour of Dolmabahçe Palace, a 19th-century marvel. The unique highlight? A seamless blend of sightseeing, culinary exploration, and hands-on cultural encounters, making this tour package ideal for travelers seeking a well-rounded Istanbul experience.

8 hours

Istanbul classics private walking tour

Step into the heart of Istanbul’s rich past with the Istanbul Classics Private Walking Tour, crafted for sophisticated explorers seeking an immersive journey through the city’s most iconic sites. Your knowledgeable guide will collect you directly from your hotel or seaport, ensuring a seamless start to your day. Relying on a blend of public transport, taxis, and leisurely strolls, you’ll weave through the bustling streets and storied squares that have shaped centuries of history. The adventure begins at the Hippodrome, once the vibrant center of Byzantine social life. Here, remnants like the Obelisk of Thutmose III and the Serpent Column offer glimpses into the city’s ancient grandeur. Just steps away lies the magnificent Blue Mosque, renowned for its cascading domes, six minarets, and shimmering blue İznik tiles—a marvel of Ottoman architecture. Next, you’ll delve into the opulent world of the Ottoman sultans at Topkapi Palace. Built in 1459, this palace housed the rulers of an empire for nearly 400 years before its transformation into a museum in 1924. Uncover treasures and stories that reveal the inner workings of a vast empire. Midway through your walking tour, pause to savor authentic Turkish cuisine during a relaxing lunch break—an ideal opportunity to recharge and reflect on the sights so far. Your afternoon continues with a visit to Hagia Sophia, a breathtaking monument that has served as both an Eastern Orthodox cathedral and an imperial mosque, reflecting the city’s layered religious heritage. Its transformation into a museum in the 20th century invites all visitors to marvel at its grand architecture and artistic splendor. No classic Istanbul tour is complete without exploring the Grand Bazaar. Lose yourself among 61 vaulted streets and more than 3,000 shops—one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, where treasures and curiosities await at every turn. At day’s end, your guide ensures a smooth return to your hotel or seaport, concluding a day rich in discovery, culture, and memorable moments. The true highlight of this trip is the deep dive into Istanbul’s multifaceted history, guided by a local expert who brings each landmark to life. Perfect for experienced travelers eager to uncover the city’s legendary past, this tour package combines historical insight, local flavors, and seamless logistics for an unforgettable urban exploration.

8 hours

Istanbul Classics Half Day Morning

4.0(1 review)

Begin your day in Istanbul with a captivating journey through the city’s most iconic landmarks. This family-friendly tour starts at the historic Roman Hippodrome, once the site of thrilling chariot races, before moving to the majestic Blue Mosque, famed for its six minarets. Continue your exploration with the German Fountain—a gift from Kaiser Wilhelm II—and hear intriguing stories of historical connections between East and West. The highlight is a guided visit to the Hagia Sophia, the legendary Church of Divine Wisdom, rich with centuries of art and history. Your guide then leads you to the bustling Grand Bazaar, where a demonstration of traditional Turkish handicrafts awaits. Please note, the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays, and the Blue Mosque has limited access on Fridays, with alternative stops provided. This sightseeing trip’s unique selling point lies in its expertly curated blend of history, architecture, and hands-on cultural experiences, making it an ideal introduction to Istanbul for families or anyone seeking a comprehensive city overview.

4 hours

Top Highlights of Istanbul in 4 Hours

Pressed for time in Istanbul but eager to soak in its most iconic landmarks? The "Top Highlights of Istanbul in 4 Hours" tour is your ticket to an unforgettable whirlwind of history and culture. In just half a day, you’ll explore the awe-inspiring Blue Mosque, marvel at the storied Hagia Sophia, stroll through the ancient Hippodrome, and lose yourself in the bustling Grand Bazaar. Accompanied by a professional guide, you’ll dive into the heart of Sultanahmet, gaining insights into Istanbul’s rich past and vibrant present. Skip-the-line access ensures a seamless experience, and hotel pick-up is available for your convenience. This sightseeing tour is ideal for travelers—young adults and seniors alike—who crave a concentrated dose of Istanbul’s magic, all in a short, expertly guided trip.

4 hours

Kadıköy (Chalcedon) Treasures

Start your day in Istanbul’s historic Karaköy, savoring a traditional breakfast among authentic eateries near the famed Güllüoğlu Baklava Shop. This engaging tour offers more than just a culinary journey—it’s a cultural stroll across continents. Board a ferry to Kadıköy, the ancient city of Chalcedon, exploring its vibrant food markets and local shops on the Asian side of Istanbul. Sample fresh seafood at the bustling Fish Market, taste Turkish delicacies like muhallebi and baklava, and enjoy a main course at the renowned Çiya Restaurant, celebrated for its unique regional flavors. Finish your afternoon with lively conversation over Turkish coffee at a classic coffee house before the scenic ferry ride back to Karaköy. This trip’s unique selling point is its blend of culinary adventure and cultural immersion, offering a genuine, behind-the-scenes taste of Istanbul’s Asian side and its living traditions.

5 hours

Tour 1M-Istanbul Classics (HD Morning)

Discover the fascinating crossroads of empires with the Istanbul Classics HD Morning tour, a perfectly paced introduction to the city’s most celebrated sites. Begin your journey in the Sultan Ahmet Center, the historic epicenter where Byzantine emperors and Ottoman sultans once ruled. Stand in awe before Hagia Sophia, the legendary Church of Divine Wisdom, renowned for its soaring domes and intricate mosaics. Opposite, the Blue Mosque captivates visitors with its blue İznik tiles and unique six-minaret design, representing the zenith of Ottoman architecture. Stroll through the ancient Hippodrome, once the stage for thrilling chariot races and political spectacles, and admire monuments like the Serpentine Column and the German Fountain. The trip continues with a visit to the Grand Covered Bazaar, the world’s largest and most vibrant marketplace, where nearly 4,000 shops overflow with antiques, textiles, and treasures. For those curious about local craftsmanship, an optional art demonstration of Turkish carpet making is available. The unique feature of this tour package is its seamless blend of historical depth and vibrant local culture within a concise timeframe, making it an ideal introduction to Istanbul for travelers of all backgrounds.

4 hours

Istanbul private custom tour: 1-4 days

Design your perfect Istanbul experience on a private custom tour, tailored for experienced travelers seeking flexibility and depth. With an expert guide and private vehicle, you’ll explore the city’s most celebrated sights—choose from the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahce Palace, the Grand Bazaar, and the evocative Spice Market, or venture into lesser-known quarters like Karaköy and Taksim. Istanbul’s unique position straddling two continents comes alive as you wander historic neighborhoods, admire Byzantine frescoes, and take in panoramic views from Pierre Lotti Hill. Guides are available in your preferred language, and skip-the-line ticket assistance ensures a smooth, efficient experience. The tour’s standout feature is its complete customization—whether you have one day or several, every itinerary is crafted to your interests and pace. For those who want to truly unlock Istanbul’s past and present, this tour package offers unrivaled flexibility, convenience, and expert insight.

Tour 3 - Byzantine & Ottoman Relics

Highlights

Itinerary