Classic Istanbul and tour to Byzantium

General information

Destination	Category
Istanbul, Turkey	Attractions/Entertainment

Program details

Come along and discover why so many regard Istanbul to be one of the most interesting and beautiful cities in the world. This comprehensive tour takes you to all of its most famous landmarks.



Begin with a drive to the beautiful Sultanahmet Square, in the Old City, from where you will reach the Hippodrome. This exciting site used to stage chariot races during the Byzantine Period. Later on, visit two of the most iconic constructions in Turkey: the sprawling, magnificent and complex Blue Mosque and the equally stunning Hagia Sophia, two extraordinary masterpieces of Ottoman architecture.



After a traditional Turkish lunch, move on to one of the most awe-inspiring sites in the city: the Golden Horn, a natural naval harbour in Byzantine times named like that for its hornlike shape and its golden colour under the sun. Continue then to the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, the nucleus of Turkish Orthodox Christianity since Christianity became a must in the East Roman Empire.



Next stop is the church of St Mary of Blachernae, renowned for its holy waters and baths. Then onto another church, the Holy Saviour in Chora, today a museum containing marvellous mosaics and frescoes.



Discover the uncanny Prison of Anemas, where they used to incarcerate high-ranked statesmen. Finally, see the Palace of the Porphyrogenitus, one of the few parts of the Blachernae Palace that remains standing to this day. See, too, in the vicinity, the ruins of the acropolis of Byzantium. All these sites will convince you of the magnetic power of Istanbul.



Languages

English, Spanish, German and French

Redeem information
Voucher type: Printed
Printed Voucher. Print and bring the voucher to enjoy the activity.

Location
Starting point:
Hotel pickup

End point: Same as starting point

Schedule
Opening dates
08:00 - 17:00

Guiding options
Guiding type: Guide

Requirements
Please be advised that the tour may be given in several languages.