Experience the complete historical journey of Istanbul with our Byzantine & Ottoman Relics Tour, a full-day guided walking tour that explores the city’s most iconic landmarks from both empires. With entrance fees included and lunch provided, this immersive tour is ideal for travelers seeking a deep cultural and historical experience.
Tour Overview
Tour Type: Full Day Walking Tour
Lunch: Included (drinks are extra)
Entrance Fees: Included
Operation Days: Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays
Why Choose This Full-Day Tour?
Combines Byzantine & Ottoman highlights in one itinerary
Entrance fees included for major attractions
Lunch included for a comfortable full-day experience
Expert-guided historical walking tour
Ideal for first-time visitors to Istanbul
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Highlights of the Byzantine & Ottoman Relics Tour
Hippodrome of Constantinople
Once the vibrant center of Byzantine public life, the Hippodrome was the stage for chariot races, imperial ceremonies, and grand celebrations. Today, its monumental remains continue to narrate the story of ancient Constantinople.
Key monuments include:
German Fountain – A symbol of friendship gifted by Emperor Wilhelm II
Egyptian Obelisk – A timeless monument from ancient Egypt
Serpentine Column – A legendary relic from Delphi
Walled Obelisk – A silent witness to Byzantine splendor
Together, these monuments create one of the most important historical squares in Istanbul.
Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)
Dominating Istanbul’s skyline with its six elegant minarets, the Blue Mosque is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture. Famous for its exquisite blue İznik tiles, the mosque offers a peaceful and awe-inspiring atmosphere where art, faith, and history meet in perfect harmony.
Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
A world-renowned architectural wonder, Hagia Sophia stands as a symbol of human creativity and spiritual devotion. Built in the 6th century under Emperor Justinian, its massive dome and golden mosaics reflect the grandeur of the Byzantine Empire while embracing centuries of cultural transformation.
Grand Bazaar of Istanbul
One of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, the Grand Bazaar is a living museum of trade and tradition. With thousands of shops offering carpets, jewelry, ceramics, and handicrafts, it represents the vibrant commercial heart of historic Istanbul.
Hagia Irene Church
Dating back to the 4th century, Hagia Irene Church is one of the earliest Christian structures in Istanbul. Preserved in its original form, it reflects the continuity of Byzantine spirituality and later became part of the Topkapı Palace complex after the Ottoman conquest.
Topkapı Palace
The final highlight of the tour is Topkapı Palace, the administrative and ceremonial center of the Ottoman Empire for nearly four centuries. Visitors will explore its imperial courtyards, jewel-filled treasury, and the sacred Chamber of Holy Relics, where priceless Islamic artifacts are preserved.
A Complete Journey Through Empires
From the ancient Hippodrome to the imperial halls of Topkapı Palace, this tour offers a rare opportunity to experience Byzantine and Ottoman history in one day. Each monument reveals a different chapter of Istanbul’s extraordinary past, making this tour an essential experience for culture and history lovers.
- Hotel pick up & drop off by air-conditioned non-smoking tour coaches
- Lunch
- Entrance fees
- Professional licensed tour guide
- Service charges & local taxes
- Drinks
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratitues
Hippodrome
Blue Mosque
Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
Grand Covered Bazaar
Lunch
Hagia Irene Church
Topkapi Palace
Also visioned during the tours
*AQUADUCT OF VALENS *OBELISK OF THEODOSIUS *SERPENTINE COLUMN
*GERMAN FOUNTAIN OF WILHELM II
CLOSED
Grand Bazaar closed on Sunday / Replaced with Arasta Bazaar
Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Museum closed on Friday due to Prayer
Topkapı Palace & Hagia Irene Church on Tuesday
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Package |
Double Room Per Person |
Single Room |
Triple Room Per Person |
Child (0-2 Age) |
Child (2-12 Age) |