Full Day Byzantine&Ottoman Highlights

Unraveling the captivating histories of two mighty empires, the Full Day Byzantine & Ottoman Highlights tour in Istanbul offers an immersive journey. Travelers will explore iconic landmarks, from the opulent Topkapi Palace to the majestic Hagia Sophia Mosque, uncovering the architectural and cultural legacies that have shaped this vibrant city. With engaging storytelling and a savory Turkish lunch, participants can expect to gain a deeper understanding of Istanbul’s past – a must for any history enthusiast eager to uncover the secrets of Byzantium and the Ottomans.

Key Points

• Comprehensive tour of Istanbul’s Byzantine and Ottoman heritage, including visits to Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia Mosque, Hippodrome, and Basilica Cistern.
• Explore the opulent architecture, courtyards, and daily life of the Ottoman Sultans at Topkapi Palace.
• Discover the rich history and architectural marvels of the Hagia Sophia, a former Christian cathedral now serving as a mosque.
• Learn about the ancient chariot races and history of the Hippodrome, a significant site for the Byzantine Empire.
• Gain insights into the sophisticated engineering and infrastructure of the Byzantium Empire at the Basilica Cistern.

Tour Overview

This full-day Byzantine & Ottoman Highlights tour in Istanbul, Turkey provides an immersive exploration of the city’s rich cultural heritage.

With a 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, the tour focuses on the influence of the Ottoman and Byzantine Empires.

Guests visit iconic landmarks like Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia Mosque, the Hippodrome, and the Basilica Cistern.

A private guide leads the way, sharing insights throughout the day.

Travelers enjoy a Turkish lunch and private transportation, with tour options accessible for wheelchair users and families with strollers.

Itinerary Highlights

Visitors explore Topkapi Palace, the former residence of the Ottoman Sultans, where they can envision the grandeur and power of the empire.

Next, they discover the Hagia Sophia Mosque and museum, which highlights the influence of the Byzantine Empire.

At the Hippodrome, they learn about ancient chariot races, while the Kapali Carsi, or Grand Bazaar, offers a glimpse into the bustling commercial life of the past.

The tour culminates at the Basilica Cistern, where they explore the history and engineering marvels of the Byzantium Empire.

Exploring Topkapi Palace

As visitors enter the grand gates of Topkapi Palace, they’re immediately struck by the opulent architecture and lavish surroundings that once housed the powerful Ottoman Sultans.

They’ll explore the palace’s extravagant courtyards, ornate throne rooms, and sacred mosques, all while learning about the Sultan’s daily life and the empire’s rich history.

The tour guides share fascinating anecdotes, bringing the palace’s past to life. Guests marvel at the stunning tile work, intricate calligraphy, and sheer grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

It’s a glimpse into the glory days of the Ottoman rule.

Discovering Hagia Sophia Mosque and Museum

Next, the tour explores the magnificent Hagia Sophia – a stunning architectural masterpiece that has captivated visitors for centuries. A former Byzantine cathedral, this iconic structure now serves as a mosque, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history. As the group steps inside, they are awestruck by the grand scale, intricate mosaics, and serene atmosphere.

	Hagia Sophia
Architectural Style	Byzantine
Original Purpose	Christian Cathedral
Current Purpose	Mosque
Notable Features	Massive Dome, Mosaics, Frescoes

The tour guide shares fascinating insights, bringing the building’s past and present to life through engaging storytelling.

The Hippodrome and Kapali Carsi

The Hippodrome, an ancient relic of Istanbul’s illustrious past, stands as a testament to the city’s rich history. This vast arena, once the site of grand chariot races and public events, now serves as a peaceful public square.

Nearby lies the Kapali Carsi, or Grand Bazaar, a sprawling labyrinth of shops and stalls offering an array of traditional Turkish crafts, textiles, and spices. Visitors can wander through the bustling marketplace, haggling with vendors and seeing the vibrant culture of Istanbul.

Both the Hippodrome and Kapali Carsi offer a glimpse into the city’s captivating Byzantine and Ottoman heritage.

Byzantium Empire at Basilica Cistern

One of the most impressive remnants of the Byzantium Empire in Istanbul is the Basilica Cistern. This massive underground water storage reservoir was built in the 6th century CE during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. Its cavernous halls and 336 marble columns are a testament to the engineering prowess of the Byzantines. As visitors wander through the dimly lit cistern, they can’t help but be awed by its scale and grandeur. The cistern offers a glimpse into the Byzantium Empire’s sophisticated infrastructure and the city’s reliance on this hidden water source.

Feature	Description
Scale	105,000 sq ft, 336 columns
Construction	Marble columns, brick arches
Purpose	Water storage for Byzantine city
Significance	Impressive Byzantium engineering

Enjoying Local Cuisine

After exploring the grand monuments of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, travelers can look forward to enjoying the local cuisine during the tour.

The tour includes a traditional Turkish lunch at a restaurant, providing an opportunity to savor the rich flavors and culinary traditions of the region. From fragrant spices to delectable meat dishes, the lunch allows participants to enjoy the cultural experience.

The private tour ensures a personalized dining experience, catering to individual preferences and dietary needs. This culinary interlude complements the day’s historical discoveries, creating a well-rounded and authentic exploration of Istanbul.

Tour Details and Booking Information

This Byzantine & Ottoman Highlights tour is available from August 31, 2019 to March 4, 2026, with daily scheduling from 12:00 AM to 11:30 PM.

The tour is priced from $290.00 per group (up to 8 people) and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

Pickup is provided from any hotel in Istanbul or a designated location, with private transportation throughout the day.

The tour is accessible, catering to wheelchair users and those with strollers, and includes infant seats.

Secure your spot while staying flexible, as confirmation is received at booking.

Ask Away

Is the Tour Guide Fluent in English?

The tour guide is fluent in English, providing private guidance throughout the day to ensure a seamless and informative experience for travelers during the Byzantine and Ottoman Highlights tour in Istanbul.

What Is the Group Size for the Private Tour?

The private tour experience is exclusive to your group, with a maximum group size of up to 8 people. The tour offers private guidance throughout the day.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Our Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to the traveler’s preferences. The private tour experience allows for flexibility, and the tour provider offers personalized guidance throughout the day to accommodate the group’s interests and needs.

Are Any COVID-19 Safety Protocols in Place?

The tour provider has implemented COVID-19 safety protocols, including requiring masks, enforcing social distancing, and conducting enhanced cleaning measures to ensure the health and well-being of guests during the tour experience.

Can We Make Additional Stops Along the Way?

The tour provider offers some flexibility for additional stops along the way, though these may incur an extra charge. Guests should inquire about the feasibility and cost of adding any supplementary sites to the itinerary.

Final Words

The Full-Day Byzantine & Ottoman Highlights tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore Istanbul’s captivating past. Travelers will explore iconic landmarks, including the opulent Topkapi Palace and the majestic Hagia Sophia Mosque, while gaining deep insights into the cultural and architectural legacies of these two influential empires. With knowledgeable guides and a delicious Turkish lunch included, this immersive experience is a must-do for history enthusiasts.