Byzantine and Ottoman Relics Tour

Join us for Byzantine and Ottoman Relics Tour, where you’ll have the opportunity to delve into the rich cultural heritage of two of the world’s most renowned empires here in Istanbul.

Led by our expert guides, you’ll embark on a journey through time right in the heart of the old city, learning about the captivating stories and legacies of these ancient civilizations and gaining valuable insights into their lasting impact on the world.

Whether you’re an avid explorer or simply interested in the past, Byzantine and Ottoman Relics tour promises to be a unique and unforgettable experience that will enhance your appreciation of history and as well as art.

Highlights

• Browse the famous Grand Covered Bazaar
• Explore the cultural treasures of the Ottoman and Byzantine Empires
• Discover the heart of the Old City

Departure

We’ll pick you up from your hotel between 08:00 – 08:30 AM
(Only from Sultanahmet, Laleli, Taksim areas)

Byzantine and Ottoman Relics Tour Itinerary

Firstly, we’ll visit Hagia Sofia from the 6th century, the greatest piece of history of architecture, constucted by Emperor Justinian as basilica. Then, we’ll head to the Blue Mosque, built in the name of Sultan Ahmet, which is famous with the blue tiles adorning the walls of its interior and 6 minarets.

After that, we’ll visit the Hippodrome, the center of the old city where sportive and political events took place, which is decorated with Serpentine Column, Obelisk of Theodosius and German Fountain of Wilhelm II. Next, we’ll explore the Grand Bazaar. It is one of the world’s biggest and oldest covered bazaars with 4000 shops. These shops sell authentic goods, antiques, carpets, gold jewelry, leatherware and souvenirs.

Following our visit to the Grand Bazaar, we’ll have lunch at a local Turkish restaurant.

We’ll then make our way to the Topkapi Palace. The palace served as the residence of Ottoman sultans for 400 years. It has since been recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site and being considered the epitome of palaces.

Inside the Topkapi Palace, we’ll see the sacred Islamic relic of prophet Mohammed, Islamic calligraphic manuscripts and murals as well as large collections of porcelains, robes, weapons, armors, shields, Ottoman miniatures, imperial treasures and jewelry, all of which are exhibited at the palace. However, please note that Harem is not included in the program.

Finally, we’ll visit the Sultan Tombs, which consists of five at Hagia Sophia graveyard. There, we’ll see the Tomb of Sultan Selim, built by Sinan which is one of the most beautiful tombs. Additionally, we’ll explore the Tomb of sultan Murat II, one of the largest Ottoman tombs. And we’ll see the Tomb of sultan Mehmet II which was decorated with stars, flowers and landscape pictures that is different from the classical ornamentation elements of the period. Lastly, we’ll see the tombs of prices also built by Sinan.

The tour finishes approximately at 17:00 – 17:30.

Important Reminder

Hagia Sophia is closed on Monday/replaced with Yerebatan Cistern. Blue Mosque is closed for Friday prayer. Grand Bazaar is closed on Sunday/replaced with Handicraft Store. Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesday. Sultan Tombs is closed on Monday/replaced with Little Hagia Sophia Mosque.