Istanbul: Byzantine & Ottoman Relics Eco With Lunch & Guide

Explore the captivating history of Istanbul with the "Byzantine & Ottoman Relics Eco With Lunch & Guide" tour. This comprehensive excursion immerses travelers in the city’s storied past, showcasing iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Beyond the architectural wonders, the tour also promises a delightful culinary experience, with a traditional Turkish lunch complementing the cultural exploration. With a professional local guide leading the way and convenient hotel pickup, this tour offers a seamless blend of sightseeing and culture. Prepare to uncover the rich tapestry of Istanbul’s past and leave with a deeper appreciation for its enduring legacy.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Lunch Experiences In Istanbul.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 8-hour tour exploring Byzantine and Ottoman landmarks, including Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, priced from K¨ 1,802 per person.

• Itinerary features visits to iconic sites, free time at the Grand Bazaar, and a lunch featuring authentic local Turkish flavors.

• Transportation provided in air-conditioned buses with hotel pickup and drop-off, and alternative meeting points available for distant hotels.

• Tour includes professional local guide, entry fees, and is not suitable for wheelchair users; comfortable shoes and clothing recommended.

• Smoking prohibited in vehicles or indoor areas, and the Grand Bazaar may be closed on Sundays with alternative shopping options arranged.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This Istanbul: Byzantine & Ottoman Relics Eco with Lunch & Guide tour offers an 8-hour exploration of the city’s iconic Byzantine and Ottoman landmarks.

Priced from K₺1,802 per person, the tour’s highlights include the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Topkapi Palace, and Sultan Tombs.

Guests will enjoy free time at the Grand Bazaar and a lunch featuring authentic local flavors.

Additional visits include the Obelisk of Theodosius III, Serpent Column, and Hagia Irene.

The tour is conducted in English and Spanish, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Hotel pickup and drop-off, transfers, entry fees, and a professional local guide are all included.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins with a pickup from centrally located hotels between 08:00 and 09:00.

Guests will then visit several key sights, including the iconic Hagia Sophia, the stunning Blue Mosque, the historic Hippodrome, the expansive Topkapi Palace, and the serene Sultan Tombs.

The tour also includes free time at the Grand Bazaar, where visitors can explore the vibrant marketplace, shop, and barter for unique goods.

Lunch at a Turkish restaurant allows guests to savor authentic local flavors.

Additional visits to sites like the Obelisk of Theodosius III, the Serpent Column, and Hagia Irene round out the day’s itinerary, providing a comprehensive exploration of Istanbul’s Byzantine and Ottoman heritage.

Transportation and Pickup Details

Guests are picked up from Taksim Square and Fatih, and they’re dropped off at Fatih and Taksim Square.

The transfer is provided in air-conditioned buses. To confirm the pickup, guests are contacted via WhatsApp, email, or phone the day before.

The shuttle bus ride takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, and alternative meeting points are provided for hotels located farther away.

• Pickup and drop-off locations: Taksim Square, Fatih
• Transportation: Air-conditioned buses
• Pickup confirmation: Guests contacted via WhatsApp, email, or phone
• Shuttle bus ride duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour, with alternative meeting points for distant hotels.

What’s Included and Excluded

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a lunch featuring authentic local flavors, a professional local guide, air-conditioned vehicle transfers, and all entry fees.

However, drinks during lunch and personal expenses are excluded. Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes and clothes, and note that smoking isn’t allowed in the vehicle or indoors.

On Sundays, the Grand Bazaar is closed, and alternative shopping visits will be arranged.

Guests should also be aware that some streets may be narrow or under construction, affecting bus access.

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Important Information and Recommendations

One should wear comfortable shoes and clothes for this tour.

Smoking isn’t allowed in the vehicle or indoors during the tour.

Depending on the day, the Grand Bazaar may be closed on Sundays, in which case alternative shopping visits will be arranged.

Plus, some streets may be narrow or under construction, which could affect bus access.

Therefore, it’s important for guests to be aware of these details to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

• Wear comfortable shoes and clothes
• No smoking allowed in vehicle or indoors
• Grand Bazaar may be closed on Sundays with alternative shopping visits

Hotel Pickup and Drop-off

Pickup locations for this tour include Taksim Square and Fatih, with drop-off at either Fatih or Taksim Square.

Guests are contacted via WhatsApp, email, or phone the day before to confirm their pickup. The tour includes a 45-minute to 1-hour shuttle bus ride to the starting point.

Alternative meeting points may be provided for guests staying at hotels further away. This ensures a smooth and convenient start and end to the day’s activities.

Wheelchair users should note that the tour may not be suitable due to potential access limitations on some streets.

Authentic Local Flavors at Lunch

A hearty Turkish lunch featuring authentic local flavors awaits guests during this tour. The meal is served at a traditional restaurant, offering a delectable taste of Turkish cuisine.

Diners can expect to savor:

• Fragrant rice dishes, such as the classic Turkish pilaf
• Succulent meat kebabs, grilled to perfection
• A selection of fresh salads and mezze plates

The lunch provides a welcome respite and an opportunity to refuel before continuing the exploration of Istanbul’s Byzantine and Ottoman relics.

This authentic dining experience allows travelers to enjoy the city’s rich culinary heritage.

Free Time at Grand Bazaar

The tour’s free time at the Grand Bazaar provides guests with an unmatched opportunity to enjoy the vibrant heart of Istanbul’s historic commercial district.

This bustling marketplace features thousands of shops, stalls, and vendors offering a vast array of traditional Turkish goods, from handcrafted carpets and leather goods to spices, jewelry, and ceramics.

Visitors can explore the maze-like alleys, bargaining with shopkeepers, and discovering unique treasures.

The lively atmosphere, coupled with the chance to practice haggling skills, makes the Grand Bazaar a highlight of the tour, offering a truly authentic taste of Istanbul’s rich mercantile heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Join the Tour as a Solo Traveler?

Yes, solo travelers can join this tour. The tour accommodates individual bookings and there’s no additional cost for solo participants. They’ll be part of a group and enjoy the same tour experience.

Is There a Discount for Students or Seniors?

Yes, the tour operator offers discounts for students and seniors. Customers can inquire about these discounted rates when booking the tour. The discounts are subject to availability and may require valid student or senior identification.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, customers can typically customize the tour itinerary to their preferences. The tour provider may accommodate requests to modify the sights visited or activities included, subject to availability and feasibility.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Lunch?

The tour operator offers flexible lunch arrangements to accommodate various dietary preferences and restrictions. Guests can discuss any specific requirements, such as vegetarian, vegan, or halal options, with the tour guide prior to the meal.

Is the Tour Guide Fluent in Additional Languages Besides English and Spanish?

The tour’s description doesn’t specify if the guide is fluent in additional languages besides English and Spanish. It’s best to confirm any language requirements with the tour provider prior to booking to ensure the guide can accommodate your needs.

Recap

This comprehensive tour offers a fascinating glimpse into Istanbul’s rich Byzantine and Ottoman heritage. Visitors can enjoy iconic landmarks, savor authentic Turkish cuisine, and explore the vibrant Grand Bazaar, all with the convenience of hotel pickup and a knowledgeable local guide. It’s an excellent way to experience the cultural depth and diversity that make Istanbul such a captivating destination.

You can check if your dates are available here: