Full Day Historical Walking Tour From Byzantium to the Ottomans [422968P21]
Expert guides, exclusive access, small groups, and comprehensive itineraries ensure a personalized and enriching Istanbul experience.
Expert Guides: Our tours are led by knowledgeable and passionate guides who bring the history of Istanbul to life with captivating stories and insightful commentary. Their expertise ensures you gain a deep understanding of each site you visit.
Exclusive Access: Enjoy priority access to some of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks, including Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, and the Blue Mosque. Skip the long lines and maximize your time exploring these breathtaking sites.
Comprehensive Itinerary: Our thoughtfully planned itineraries cover all the must-see attractions and hidden gems. From the grandeur of the Byzantine Empire to the opulence of the Ottoman era, every aspect of Istanbul’s rich heritage is showcased
Our small group tours ensure you receive individual attention from your guide and have ample opportunity to ask questions and interact
Expert Guides: Our tours are led by knowledgeable and passionate guides who bring the history of Istanbul to life with captivating stories and insightful commentary. Their expertise ensures you gain a deep understanding of each site you visit.
Exclusive Access: Enjoy priority access to some of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks, including Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, and the Blue Mosque. Skip the long lines and maximize your time exploring these breathtaking sites.
Comprehensive Itinerary: Our thoughtfully planned itineraries cover all the must-see attractions and hidden gems. From the grandeur of the Byzantine Empire to the opulence of the Ottoman era, every aspect of Istanbul’s rich heritage is showcased
Our small group tours ensure you receive individual attention from your guide and have ample opportunity to ask questions and interact
ADDITIONAL INFO
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
INCLUDED
- Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace entrance fees included.
NOT INCLUDED
- Tips/Gratuities
CANCELLATION POLICY
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
ITINERARY
- Discover the historic heart of Byzantine Constantinople at the Hippodrome, now known as Sultanahmet Square. Built in the 3rd century AD, this grand arena hosted thrilling chariot races and major public events. Key attractions include the Obelisk of Theodosius and the Serpent Column.
- The Column of Constantine, erected in 330 AD by Emperor Constantine the Great, commemorates the founding of Constantinople. Originally over 50 meters tall, this iconic monument remains a testament to the city's historic legacy.
- The Serpent Column, dating back to 479 BC, was originally part of a victory monument at Delphi. Brought to Constantinople by Emperor Constantine, it stands in Sultanahmet Square as a symbol of ancient triumph and continuity.
- The Obelisk of Theodosius, originally erected in Egypt around 1500 BC, was brought to Constantinople by Emperor Theodosius I in the 4th century AD. Standing in Sultanahmet Square, this impressive monument commemorates Theodosius's victories and showcases exquisite hieroglyphic carvings.
- The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is an architectural marvel built in the early 17th century by Sultan Ahmed I. Renowned for its stunning blue Iznik tiles that adorn the interior, the mosque features six minarets and a grand central dome, blending traditional Islamic and Byzantine elements. Located in Sultanahmet Square, it remains a vibrant place of worship and a must-visit landmark for its breathtaking beauty and historical significance.
- Hagia Sophia, originally built as a cathedral in 537 AD by Emperor Justinian I, stands as a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. Renowned for its massive dome and stunning mosaics, it has served as a cathedral, mosque, and now a museum. Located in Sultanahmet, Istanbul, Hagia Sophia remains a symbol of the city's rich and diverse history.
- The Stone of Million, erected in the 4th century AD by Emperor Constantine, served as the starting point for all road distances measured in the Byzantine Empire. Located near Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, this historic marker symbolized the center of the world for Byzantine travelers and remains a fascinating relic of ancient urban planning.
- The Grand Bazaar, established in the 15th century, is one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets. Located in the heart of Istanbul, it boasts over 4,000 shops offering a wide array of goods, from jewelry and carpets to spices and antiques. A vibrant hub of commerce and culture, the Grand Bazaar is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the bustling atmosphere and rich history of Istanbul.
- Topkapı Palace, constructed in the 15th century by Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, served as the primary residence and administrative headquarters of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. This sprawling complex, located in Istanbul, features opulent courtyards, magnificent pavilions, and the renowned Harem. Today, it is a museum showcasing the rich history and treasures of the Ottoman Empire.
- Hagia Irene, built in the 4th century by Emperor Constantine, is one of Istanbul's oldest and most significant churches. Unlike many other Byzantine structures, it has remained a church throughout its history, never converted into a mosque. Located within the grounds of Topkapı Palace, Hagia Irene is renowned for its impressive dome and historical significance, serving as a museum and concert hall today.
