Discovering the magic of Istanbul

Istanbul holds a unique place among the world’s greatest cities. Bridging the continents of Europe and Asia, this city not only houses three of the ancient world’s great civilizations ( Roman, Greek, and Byzantine )but also stands out as the center of the Ottoman Empire.

📩 Let’s plan your trip!

Reach out now via email or WhatsApp ,it only takes a minute to secure your booking.

  
Description

Istanbul holds a unique place among the world’s greatest cities. Bridging the continents of Europe and Asia, this city not only houses three of the ancient world’s great civilizations ( Roman, Greek, and Byzantine )but also stands out as the center of the Ottoman Empire.

This full-day walking tour brings together some of the most iconic monuments from the Byzantine and Ottoman eras. You won’t just see the city—you’ll feel its timeless spirit and explore its deeply layered cultural heritage.

Discovering the magic of Istanbul

Route:  Chora, Pierre Loti, Süleymaniye Mosque, Old City Walls, Fener&Balat
Tour Type: Private Tour
Duration: Full Day

INCLUDED

  • English speaking professional tour guide
  • Entrance fees for sites and museums

EXCLUDED

  • Personal expenses
  • Optional programs
  • Lunch
  • Tips – driver and guide
  • All transportation by A/C No Smoking vehicles
  • Any other meals or services not specified in ‘Prices Included’
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Reviews

There are no reviews yet.

Only logged in customers who have purchased this product may leave a review.

Itinerary

Istanbul holds a unique place among the world’s greatest cities. Bridging the continents of Europe and Asia, this city not only houses three of the ancient world’s great civilizations ( Roman, Greek, and Byzantine )but also stands out as the center of the Ottoman Empire. All of this rich history transforms almost every street corner into a feast for the eyes and mind, where modern buildings, ancient ruins, and fragments of historical walls coexist.

This Istanbul Day Tour offers you exclusive access to those places that are difficult to reach on your own, allowing you to discover some of the most important monuments from Istanbul’s Byzantine and Ottoman periods.

Süleymaniye Mosque – The Pinnacle of Ottoman Grandeur
We begin our journey with the spectacular Süleymaniye Mosque, commissioned by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent and designed by the legendary architect Mimar Sinan during his master period. This imperial complex (külliye) was more than just a mosque—it included a hospital, hammam, soup kitchen, schools, and a library. The panoramic view of the Golden Horn from the courtyard is breathtaking.
 Chora Church (Kariye ) – A Masterpiece of Byzantine Art
Our next stop is the former Chora Church (now a mosque), one of the most important surviving examples of Byzantine Christian art. Its exquisite mosaics and frescoes vividly portray scenes from the life of Jesus and the Virgin Mary. The intricate artistry on the walls and ceilings will leave you mesmerized.
Fener & Balat – Colorful Streets and Multicultural Heritage
We continue into two of Istanbul’s most atmospheric neighborhoods: Fener and Balat. With their narrow cobbled streets, pastel-colored homes, charming cafés, and diverse religious landmarks, these districts reflect the city’s multicultural soul.
Highlights in Fener & Balat include:
•Church of St. Theodosia and Church of St. Nicholas (Byzantine period)
•Fener Greek Orthodox College (the iconic red building)
•St. George Patriarchal Church
•Ahrida Synagogue (Sephardic style, Ottoman period)
•Colorful houses and stairways of Balat
•The Iron Church (St. Stephen, made entirely of cast iron)
Pierre Loti Hill – A Moment of Peace with a View
After exploring Fener and Balat, we head to Pierre Loti Hill by funicular or minibus. Named after the French novelist who fell in love with Istanbul, this peaceful spot offers one of the best panoramic views over the Golden Horn—perfect for a short tea or coffee break.
Spice Bazaar – A Feast of Scents, Colors, and Flavors
We end our tour at the famous Spice Bazaar, a historic market that’s been alive with trade since 1664. Discover exotic spices, Turkish delight, dried fruits, herbal teas, and local handicrafts as you wander through its vibrant stalls.

Discovering the magic of Istanbul

Istanbul holds a unique place among the world’s greatest cities. Bridging the continents of Europe and Asia, this city not only houses three of the ancient world’s great civilizations ( Roman, Greek, and Byzantine )but also stands out as the center of the Ottoman Empire.

📩 Let’s plan your trip!

Reach out now via email or WhatsApp, it only takes a minute to secure your booking.

Description

Istanbul holds a unique place among the world’s greatest cities. Bridging the continents of Europe and Asia, this city not only houses three of the ancient world’s great civilizations ( Roman, Greek, and Byzantine )but also stands out as the center of the Ottoman Empire.

This full-day walking tour brings together some of the most iconic monuments from the Byzantine and Ottoman eras. You won’t just see the city—you’ll feel its timeless spirit and explore its deeply layered cultural heritage.

Discovering the magic of Istanbul

Route:  Chora, Pierre Loti, Süleymaniye Mosque, Old City Walls, Fener&Balat
Tour Type: Private Tour
Duration: Full Day

INCLUDED

  • English speaking professional tour guide
  • Entrance fees for sites and museums

EXCLUDED

  • Personal expenses
  • Optional programs
  • Lunch
  • Tips – driver and guide
  • All transportation by A/C No Smoking vehicles
  • Any other meals or services not specified in ‘Prices Included’
Reviews (0)

Reviews

There are no reviews yet.

Only logged in customers who have purchased this product may leave a review.

Itinerary

Istanbul holds a unique place among the world’s greatest cities. Bridging the continents of Europe and Asia, this city not only houses three of the ancient world’s great civilizations ( Roman, Greek, and Byzantine )but also stands out as the center of the Ottoman Empire. All of this rich history transforms almost every street corner into a feast for the eyes and mind, where modern buildings, ancient ruins, and fragments of historical walls coexist.

This Istanbul Day Tour offers you exclusive access to those places that are difficult to reach on your own, allowing you to discover some of the most important monuments from Istanbul’s Byzantine and Ottoman periods.

Süleymaniye Mosque – The Pinnacle of Ottoman Grandeur
We begin our journey with the spectacular Süleymaniye Mosque, commissioned by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent and designed by the legendary architect Mimar Sinan during his master period. This imperial complex (külliye) was more than just a mosque—it included a hospital, hammam, soup kitchen, schools, and a library. The panoramic view of the Golden Horn from the courtyard is breathtaking.
 Chora Church (Kariye ) – A Masterpiece of Byzantine Art
Our next stop is the former Chora Church (now a mosque), one of the most important surviving examples of Byzantine Christian art. Its exquisite mosaics and frescoes vividly portray scenes from the life of Jesus and the Virgin Mary. The intricate artistry on the walls and ceilings will leave you mesmerized.
Fener & Balat – Colorful Streets and Multicultural Heritage
We continue into two of Istanbul’s most atmospheric neighborhoods: Fener and Balat. With their narrow cobbled streets, pastel-colored homes, charming cafés, and diverse religious landmarks, these districts reflect the city’s multicultural soul.
Highlights in Fener & Balat include:
•Church of St. Theodosia and Church of St. Nicholas (Byzantine period)
•Fener Greek Orthodox College (the iconic red building)
•St. George Patriarchal Church
•Ahrida Synagogue (Sephardic style, Ottoman period)
•Colorful houses and stairways of Balat
•The Iron Church (St. Stephen, made entirely of cast iron)
Pierre Loti Hill – A Moment of Peace with a View
After exploring Fener and Balat, we head to Pierre Loti Hill by funicular or minibus. Named after the French novelist who fell in love with Istanbul, this peaceful spot offers one of the best panoramic views over the Golden Horn—perfect for a short tea or coffee break.
Spice Bazaar – A Feast of Scents, Colors, and Flavors
We end our tour at the famous Spice Bazaar, a historic market that’s been alive with trade since 1664. Discover exotic spices, Turkish delight, dried fruits, herbal teas, and local handicrafts as you wander through its vibrant stalls.