Istanbul: Full Day – Byzantine & Ottoman Relics Tour

Istanbul’s rich heritage comes alive on the ‘Full Day – Byzantine & Ottoman Relics Tour.’ Delving into the city’s captivating past, this comprehensive excursion uncovers the iconic landmarks that have shaped its identity. From the stunning Blue Mosque to the grandeur of Hagia Sophia, each site tells a story of Istanbul’s enduring spirit. As the tour progresses, visitors enjoy the opulence of Topkapi Palace and navigate the vibrant Grand Bazaar, gaining a deeper appreciation for the city’s cultural tapestry. With knowledgeable guides and seamless logistics, this tour offers a window into Istanbul’s remarkable history, leaving you eager to uncover more.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Full-Day Tours In Istanbul.

Key Points

• This comprehensive full-day tour provides in-depth exploration of Istanbul’s iconic Byzantine and Ottoman landmarks, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Grand Bazaar.
• The tour features guided visits to each site, offering insights into the rich cultural, architectural, and historical significance of these legendary attractions.
• Guests can experience the grandeur of the Ottoman era at Topkapi Palace, admire the intricate mosaics and massive domed ceiling of Hagia Sophia, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar.
• The tour includes transportation, entry fees, a full-course Turkish lunch, and the services of a professional licensed guide, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience.
• With the option for private group tours and pickup from select hotels and cruise ports, the tour caters to the convenience and preferences of individual travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This full-day Istanbul Byzantine & Ottoman Relics Tour allows visitors to explore the iconic sites of the city, including the historic Hippodrome, the captivating Blue Mosque, the magnificent Topkapi Palace, and the bustling Grand Bazaar.

Priced from €1,824 per person, the 7-hour tour is available in multiple languages and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Customers can choose a private group option and enjoy pickup from 15 conveniently located hotels and the cruise port.

The tour promises an immersive experience, with guided visits to key attractions like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet Square, and the Grand Bazaar, providing a deep dive into Istanbul’s rich Byzantine and Ottoman heritage.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour typically begins with a guided visit to the iconic Blue Mosque, where visitors spend approximately 45 minutes admiring the impressive architecture and learning about its rich history.

Next, the group proceeds to the Hagia Sophia, where they embark on a 1-hour guided tour, exploring the grand Byzantine structure and marveling at its stunning interior.

After the Hagia Sophia, the tour moves to Sultanahmet Square, where the guide provides a 25-minute overview of the area’s significance.

The highlight of the tour is the guided exploration of the Topkapi Palace, which lasts for 2 hours and allows visitors to discover the palace’s treasures, including Chinese and Japanese porcelain and the Royal Family’s treasury.

The final stop is the Grand Bazaar, where guests enjoy a 1-hour guided tour through one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets.

Exploring the Blue Mosque

Often, the tour begins with a guided visit to the iconic Blue Mosque, where visitors spend approximately 45 minutes admiring the impressive architecture and learning about its rich history.

The mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, impresses with its six minarets and over 20,000 handmade ceramic tiles adorning the interior.

The guide explains the mosque’s unique features, such as the impressive central dome and the elaborate mihrab, or prayer niche, indicating the direction of Mecca.

Guests are encouraged to observe the dress code and etiquette when visiting this active place of worship.

The tour provides valuable insights into the Byzantine and Ottoman influences that shaped this renowned architectural masterpiece.

Discovering Hagia Sophia

From the iconic Blue Mosque, the tour moves on to explore the grandeur of Hagia Sophia, a former Byzantine cathedral and Ottoman mosque that now stands as a museum, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the city’s rich history.

During the guided tour, the group will be captivated by the breathtaking interior of this architectural masterpiece, marveling at its massive domed ceiling, intricate mosaics, and exquisite marble columns.

Hagia Sophia’s history spans over 1,500 years, serving as a Christian church, an Islamic mosque, and now a secular museum.

Guests will learn about the building’s remarkable cultural and religious significance, from its Byzantine origins to its Ottoman transformation.

The tour includes an in-depth exploration of the museum’s impressive collection of artifacts and artworks, providing a deeper understanding of Hagia Sophia’s enduring legacy.

Visitors will be awestruck by the sheer scale and beauty of this iconic Istanbul landmark, a true testament to the city’s remarkable architectural and cultural heritage.

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Guided Tour of Sultanahmet Square

After exploring the grandeur of Hagia Sophia, the tour guides visitors on a captivating exploration of Sultanahmet Square, the historic heart of Istanbul that has borne witness to the city’s rich cultural and political evolution over the centuries.

The guide provides fascinating insights into the square’s iconic landmarks, including the Hippodrome, once the center of Byzantine public life and the stage for chariot races and political rallies.

Visitors learn about the intricate history and symbolism of the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column, and the German Fountain, each a testament to Istanbul’s diverse cultural influences.

The 25-minute guided tour offers a compelling introduction to the square’s enduring significance in the city’s story.

Uncovering Topkapi Palace

The tour then takes visitors on a captivating exploration of the opulent Topkapi Palace, the former residence of the Ottoman sultans and a testament to the grandeur of the empire.

Guests marvel at the palace’s stunning architecture, which seamlessly blends Byzantine, Islamic, and Ottoman influences, creating a truly unique and awe-inspiring sight.

Highlights of the in-depth guided tour include:

• Discovering the palace’s vast collection of Chinese and Japanese porcelain, which reflects the Ottoman’s far-reaching trade networks.

• Admiring the Royal Family’s treasury, which houses an impressive array of jewels, gold, and other priceless artifacts.

• Exploring the harem quarters, where visitors can imagine the intrigues and power dynamics that unfolded within these private chambers.

• Ascending to the palace’s scenic terraces for panoramic views of the Bosphorus and the historic Sultanahmet district.

Bargaining at the Grand Bazaar

Visitors then venture into the legendary Grand Bazaar, where they can put their negotiation skills to the test as they bargain with skilled merchants for a vast array of traditional Turkish goods and souvenirs.

The bustling market, operational since the 15th century, houses thousands of shops selling everything from vibrant rugs and intricate ceramics to aromatic spices and handcrafted jewelry.

The tour guide provides valuable insights into the art of bargaining, advising guests on the etiquette and tactics to secure the best deals.

As they weave through the labyrinth of alleyways, guests are immersed in the lively atmosphere, embracing the unique opportunity to interact with the local vendors and bring home a piece of Istanbul’s rich heritage.

Tour Inclusions and Reviews

The tour includes pickup from select hotels and ports via a luxury air-conditioned minibus, along with the services of a professional licensed guide who leads guests through the iconic sites of Istanbul.

A full-course lunch at a local Turkish restaurant is also provided, along with gas, parking fees, local taxes, and service charges.

Customers have generally given the tour high ratings, praising the avoidance of long lines and the quality of the included lunch.

However, some issues have been reported with the tour guide’s punctuality and itinerary changes, such as the unexpected closure of Topkapi Palace.

The tour may not be suitable for pregnant women or individuals with mobility impairments.

• Pickup and drop-off at select hotels and ports

• Professional licensed guide for all site tours

• Included full-course Turkish lunch

• Gas, parking, taxes, and service charges covered

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book the Tour for a Group?

Yes, the tour can be booked for a private group. The tour offers a private group option, which allows you to explore the Byzantine and Ottoman relics with your own group at your own pace.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

While the tour doesn’t explicitly offer student or senior discounts, customers may inquire about any available discounts when booking. The tour provider may consider providing discounted rates for these groups upon request.

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Blue Mosque?

When visiting the Blue Mosque, visitors should dress modestly. Men must wear long trousers, and women should cover their heads, shoulders, and legs. Shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless tops are not permitted.

Can I Take Photos Inside the Topkapi Palace?

Yes, visitors can take photos inside Topkapi Palace, but they must avoid using flash and avoid taking pictures of restricted areas. Photography is generally permitted throughout the palace grounds, except in designated no-photography zones.

Are Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated During the Included Lunch?

The tour’s lunch at a local Turkish restaurant typically accommodates dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free upon request. Guests should notify the tour operator of any special dietary needs in advance to ensure their preferences are catered for.

Recap

The Istanbul: Full Day – Byzantine & Ottoman Relics Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the city’s captivating history and culture.

From the stunning Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia to the opulent Topkapi Palace and bustling Grand Bazaar, this comprehensive tour provides a seamless and enriching experience for those seeking to explore Istanbul’s renowned landmarks and gain a deeper understanding of its enduring legacy.

You can check if your dates are available here: