2 Days Private Byzantine & Ottoman & Ephesus Tour

Exploring the captivating Byzantine and Ottoman legacies of Istanbul, as well as the ancient wonders of Ephesus, this private 2-day tour promises an immersive journey through Turkey’s rich cultural tapestry. From the iconic Hagia Sophia to the vibrant Grand Bazaar, knowledgeable guides unravel the intriguing historical narratives that have shaped this dynamic destination. After a brief flight to Kusadasi, the tour delves into the well-preserved Roman ruins of Ephesus, inviting travelers to step back in time and witness the grandeur of a bygone era. With carefully curated inclusions and personalized experiences, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to…

This experience made our list of the 2 Best 2 Day Tours In Izmir.

Quick Points

• Comprehensive 2-day private tour exploring Istanbul’s Byzantine and Ottoman heritage, including iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar.
• Includes a short flight to the ancient site of Ephesus, with a guided tour of the remarkably preserved ruins.
• Ensures optimal time usage with 8 AM start and transportation provided in an air-conditioned vehicle.
• Offers accessibility features like wheelchair-accessible transportation and surfaces, stroller/infant seat availability, and service animal accommodation.
• Guided by knowledgeable experts who provide immersive historical insights, allowing for a profound connection to Istanbul and Ephesus’ cultural heritage.

Tour Overview

Offering a comprehensive exploration of Istanbul’s Byzantine and Ottoman heritage, this private 2-day tour immerses travelers in the captivating history and architectural marvels of the city.

The tour includes visits to iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar, allowing visitors to explore the city’s rich cultural tapestry.

On the second day, a short flight whisks participants to the ancient site of Ephesus, where they’ll embark on a guided tour of the remarkably preserved ruins.

Throughout the experience, knowledgeable guides provide immersive insights, ensuring an unforgettable journey through Turkey’s past.

Inclusions

This tour includes a variety of amenities to enhance the traveler’s experience. Breakfast, lunch (2), and accommodation (1 night, BB) are provided, ensuring a comfortable and nourishing journey. The air-conditioned vehicle for transportation adds to the convenience, while all fees and taxes are included in the package. While tips to staff and personal expenses are not covered, the minibars at hotels and drinks during meals are also not included, allowing for flexibility.

Included	Not Included
Breakfast	Tips to staff
Lunch (2)	Personal expenses
Accommodation (1 night, BB)	Minibar at hotels
Air-conditioned vehicle	Drinks during meals

Pickup and Start Details

The tour offers pickup from any hotel or location in Izmir, Kusadasi, Bodrum, Pamukkale, and Istanbul, providing convenient access for travelers.

The tour starts at 8:00 AM, allowing participants to make the most of their time.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts, offering flexibility.

The tour is designed to be accessible, with wheelchair-accessible transportation and surfaces, as well as stroller and infant seat availability.

Service animals are also allowed, ensuring an inclusive experience for all.

The tour’s convenient pickup and start details cater to the needs of a diverse group of travelers.

Accessibility

The tour’s accessibility features cater to the needs of a diverse range of travelers. The transportation and surfaces are wheelchair-accessible, and strollers and infant seats are available.

Service animals are allowed to accompany guests. The tour is designed to be inclusive, ensuring that most travelers can participate.

These accessibility measures demonstrate the tour organizer’s commitment to providing an enjoyable and inclusive experience for all visitors, regardless of their physical abilities or needs.

Exploring Hagia Sophia

One of the highlights of the Byzantine & Ottoman Tour is the visit to the iconic Hagia Sophia.

This magnificent structure, once a church and later a mosque, now stands as a museum that showcases the incredible architectural and artistic achievements of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires.

Guests will be awestruck by the grand scale of the building, the intricate mosaics, and the interplay of light and shadow within its cavernous interior.

The knowledgeable guide will bring the history of Hagia Sophia to life, revealing its significance as a pivotal religious and political center over the centuries.

This immersive experience offers a profound connection to the rich cultural heritage of Istanbul.

Visiting the Blue Mosque

After exploring the majestic Hagia Sophia, the tour continues to the captivating Blue Mosque, one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. This grand 17th-century mosque features a stunning exterior with six slender minarets and numerous domes. Visitors are awed by the mosque’s magnificent interior, adorned with intricate blue tiles that give the site its name.

Mosque Facts
Construction	1609-1616	Architect	Sedefkar Mehmed Ağa
Minarets	6	Domes	1 main, 8 secondary
Tiles	20,000+ handcrafted blue tiles	Visitors	Over 3 million annually

The Blue Mosque offers a peaceful respite from the bustling city, allowing visitors to enjoy Istanbul’s rich Ottoman heritage.

Wandering the Grand Bazaar

Leaving the serene ambiance of the Blue Mosque behind, the tour group now ventures into the bustling heart of Istanbul – the Grand Bazaar.

This iconic marketplace, dating back to the 15th century, is a labyrinth of over 4,000 shops, stalls, and eateries.

Wandering through the covered walkways, visitors are immersed in a vibrant, sensory overload:

• The dizzying array of handcrafted carpets, ceramics, jewelry, and textiles
• The haggling between merchants and customers, a captivating cultural tradition
• The enticing aromas of spices, Turkish delights, and freshly brewed tea
• The cacophony of voices in multiple languages, creating a truly global atmosphere

The Grand Bazaar offers a glimpse into Istanbul’s rich mercantile heritage and the resilience of its timeless commercial spirit.

Discovering Ephesus

The second day of the tour takes visitors on a short flight to the seaside town of Kusadasi, where they embark on an exploration of the ancient city of Ephesus.

Once the thriving capital of Roman Asia Minor, Ephesus impresses with its remarkably well-preserved ruins, including the magnificent Library of Celsus and the iconic Great Theatre.

Under the guidance of a knowledgeable local expert, travelers discover the history and significance of this important archaeological site, seeing the grandeur of the past.

From the Temple of Artemis to the Terrace Houses, each step reveals the remarkable legacy of this once-bustling metropolis, offering a captivating glimpse into the ancient world.

Since You Asked

Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary to Our Preferences?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to the traveler’s preferences. The tour provider offers flexibility, allowing customers to adjust the itinerary to suit their interests and pace within the overall 2-day tour structure.

How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?

The tour involves moderate walking as it explores historical sites like Hagia Sophia and the Ephesus archaeological site. Guests can expect to walk several kilometers throughout the day, with rest stops and transportation provided.

What Type of Transportation Is Used for Airport Transfers?

The tour includes air-conditioned vehicle transportation for all transfers, including airport pickups and drop-offs. This ensures comfortable and convenient travel between destinations throughout the 2-day tour.

Are There Any Recommended Packing Tips for the Tour?

The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, so comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and light layers are recommended. Packing light and bringing a day bag are also advised for the convenience of moving between sites.

Can We Stop for Additional Sightseeing or Shopping?

Yes, the tour offers flexibility for additional sightseeing or shopping. Guests can discuss their preferences with the guide, who’ll accommodate reasonable requests within the tour’s schedule and logistics.

The Final Verdict

Enjoy Istanbul’s captivating Byzantine and Ottoman history, then uncover the ancient wonders of Ephesus. This private tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Turkey’s iconic landmarks and archaeological sites, offering unparalleled insights into the country’s rich cultural heritage. With knowledgeable guides and seamless logistics, you’ll embark on an unforgettable journey through time, leaving you with lasting memories of this enchanting destination.