From Istanbul: Full Day Ottoman and Byzantine Guided Tour

Exploring Istanbul’s rich Ottoman and Byzantine heritage can be a captivating experience. The full-day guided tour takes visitors on a comprehensive journey through the city’s iconic landmarks, from the grand Hagia Sophia to the opulent Topkapi Palace. Along the way, a licensed guide provides insights into the fascinating stories behind these architectural marvels, immersing guests in the city’s vibrant past. Whether it’s marveling at the intricate tile work of the Blue Mosque or discovering the hidden treasures of the Grand Bazaar, this tour offers a unique opportunity to uncover the heart of Istanbul’s cultural legacy. The day’s activities promise to leave a lasting impression on those eager to delve deeper into the city’s enchanting history.

Key Points

Key points:

• A comprehensive full-day guided tour of Istanbul’s iconic Byzantine and Ottoman sites, including Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, and Topkapi Palace.
• Exploration of the city’s rich historical and cultural heritage, led by a professional licensed guide.
• Admission to key attractions and a included lunch, providing a seamless and enriching experience.
• Opportunity to admire the architectural masterpieces and mosaics that showcase the blending of Byzantine and Islamic influences.
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility for travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This guided tour in Istanbul offers a full-day exploration of the city’s iconic Ottoman and Byzantine landmarks, priced from Kč 2,267 per person and lasting 8-9 hours.

Guests can conveniently book their spot without an upfront payment and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

The comprehensive itinerary covers must-see sites like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, and Topkapi Palace, allowing visitors to enjoy the city’s rich history and culture.

With a professional licensed guide leading the way, participants can expect a seamless and enriching experience, including a delicious included lunch at a local restaurant.

Tour Highlights and Experiences

The guided tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Istanbul’s iconic sites, allowing visitors to enjoy the city’s rich Byzantine and Ottoman heritage.

Guests will admire the breathtaking Byzantine architecture and intricate Christian mosaics at the Hagia Sophia, a monumental site constructed in the 6th century. They’ll then marvel at the Blue Mosque‘s stunning blue tiles and learn about its historical significance.

The tour also takes travelers to the opulent Topkapi Palace, home to the Ottoman Sultans for over 5 centuries, featuring an impressive collection of jewelry, precious stones, and lavish costumes.

Hippodrome and Monuments

Visitors first encounter the Hippodrome, a sprawling public arena that once hosted chariot races and imperial ceremonies during the Byzantine era.

Here, they can view remarkable monuments like the Egyptian Obelisk, a towering 3,500-year-old structure, the Column of Constantine, which commemorates the Roman emperor’s conversion to Christianity, and the Serpentine Column, a bronze monument with three intertwined snakes.

The ornate German Fountain, a gift from German Kaiser Wilhelm II, stands as a testament to the cultural exchange between the Ottoman Empire and Europe.

These ancient sites provide a glimpse into Istanbul’s storied past and set the stage for the tour’s exploration of the city’s iconic Byzantine and Ottoman landmarks.

Blue Mosque and Significance

Next, the tour moves to the iconic Blue Mosque, where visitors can admire its stunning blue tiles and learn about its cultural and historical significance.

The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is an architectural masterpiece commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I in the early 17th century and remains a prominent symbol of Istanbul’s rich Islamic heritage.

The mosque’s interior is adorned with intricate patterns and over 20,000 handcrafted blue Iznik tiles, giving it the distinctive blue hue that has earned it its famous nickname.

The guide explains the mosque’s importance as a place of worship and its role in the city’s religious and cultural traditions, captivating visitors with its beauty and history.

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Hagia Sophia and History

Towering over the historic Sultanahmet Square, Hagia Sofia stands as a monumental testament to Istanbul’s rich architectural and religious history, having undergone remarkable transformations over the centuries.

Once an Orthodox cathedral, it was later converted into a mosque, and now stands as a museum showcasing the blending of Byzantine and Islamic influences.

The key facts about Hagia Sofia include:

1. It was originally constructed in the 4th century and then rebuilt in the 6th century under the rule of Emperor Justinian.

2. The building’s grand scale, intricate mosaics, and stunning dome architecture are hallmarks of Byzantine engineering and artistry.

3. After the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453, the building was transformed into a mosque, with the addition of Islamic features like minarets.

4. Today, Hagia Sofia is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, drawing visitors from around the world to marvel at its timeless beauty and history.

Grand Bazaar and Shopping

Nestled within the heart of Istanbul’s historic center, the Grand Bazaar beckons visitors with its seemingly endless maze of alleyways and thousands of shops, offering a dazzling array of traditional Turkish wares.

As part of the Ottoman and Byzantine guided tour, guests will have the opportunity to explore this vibrant marketplace, which has been a hub of commerce for centuries.

From intricate hand-woven carpets and opulent jewelry to fragrant spices and colorful ceramics, the Grand Bazaar’s stalls are a treasure trove of unique and authentic souvenirs.

Visitors can practice the art of haggling with the friendly vendors, adding an exciting element to the shopping experience, while also savoring the delectable Turkish street food on offer.

Sultans’ Tombs and Decor

After exploring the vibrant Grand Bazaar, the tour delves into the serene setting of the Sultans’ Tombs, where visitors can admire the ornate ceramic panels and intricate decorations that adorned the final resting places of the Ottoman rulers.

The tombs feature:

1. Elaborate ceramic tiles in rich colors and patterns.

2. Decorative calligraphic inscriptions honoring the sultans.

3. Ornate architectural elements like domes and arches.

4. Impressive collections of artifacts and personal belongings.

These tombs provide a glimpse into the opulent lives and legacies of the Ottoman dynasty, offering a peaceful contrast to the bustling streets outside.

Exploring this historical site allows visitors to connect with the dynasty’s enduring cultural and artistic influence.

Topkapi Palace Collections

The Topkapi Palace’s collections showcase the opulent possessions and lavish lifestyles of the Ottoman Sultans. Visitors can explore the palace’s renowned repositories of precious jewels, extravagant costumes, and other priceless artifacts that reflect the empire’s grandeur and power.

Collections	Highlights
Jewels	Diamonds, rubies, emeralds
Costumes	Opulent robes, ceremonial attire
Weapons	Swords, daggers, firearms
Calligraphy	Illuminated manuscripts, royal decrees
Porcelain	Chinese and Ottoman ceramics

The palace’s extensive treasures provide a captivating glimpse into the luxurious world of the Ottoman rulers, showcasing their power, wealth, and artistic patronage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Any COVID-19 Safety Measures in Place During the Tour?

The tour operator follows COVID-19 safety protocols, including requiring masks, providing hand sanitizer, and limiting group sizes. Visitors should confirm specific measures in place at the time of booking for their safety and comfort.

Can I Take Photographs Inside the Religious Sites?

Visitors are generally allowed to take photographs inside the religious sites, but they must respect the sanctity of the spaces and follow any rules or restrictions set by the site administrators. Photography may be limited in certain areas.

What Should I Wear to Be Respectful During the Tour?

When visiting religious sites, it’s best to wear modest, conservative clothing that covers the shoulders, arms, and legs. This shows respect for the cultural and religious significance of the spaces.

Is Gratuity Expected for the Tour Guide?

Gratuity for the tour guide is generally expected, though not mandatory. It’s customary to tip 10-15% of the tour price to show appreciation for the guide’s knowledge and service. Check with the tour provider for their specific recommendations.

Can I Extend the Tour or Add Additional Stops?

Yes, you can typically extend the tour or add additional stops for an extra fee. Speak with the tour operator to discuss your preferences and any customization options they offer.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Istanbul’s Ottoman and Byzantine heritage.

Visitors will marvel at iconic landmarks, enjoy rich histories, and experience the vibrant local culture.

From the grandeur of Hagia Sophia to the captivating collections of Topkapi Palace, the tour offers an unparalleled window into Istanbul’s storied past.

With a professional guide and a delightful lunch, this experience is a must for anyone seeking to deeply understand the city’s enduring legacy.

You can check if your dates are available here: