Byzantine Tour of Istanbul, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern

Istanbul’s Byzantine heritage is a fascinating window into the city’s storied past. Visitors can explore the iconic Hagia Sophia, a architectural marvel that seamlessly blends Christian and Islamic influences. The enigmatic Basilica Cistern, with its serene underground beauty, is another highlight. Knowledgeable guides bring these remarkable sites to life, sharing captivating stories that immerse participants in the splendor of the Byzantine era. For those eager to uncover Istanbul’s rich history, the Byzantine tour offers an…

Key Points

• The Byzantine Tour of Istanbul offers 2-, 3-, or 5-hour options, focusing on key attractions like Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern, led by expert guides.

• The tour explores ancient ruins and landmarks of Constantinople, highlighting the Hippodrome and Bukoleon Palace, and provides insights into the Byzantine era.

• Constantinople’s roots trace back to the ancient Greek city of Byzantium, becoming the capital of the Roman Empire and the center of Orthodox Christianity.

• Hagia Sophia, a landmark showcasing Istanbul’s Byzantine heritage, blends Christian and Islamic influences and features intricate mosaics, marble columns, and a massive dome.

• The Basilica Cistern, a captivating Byzantine engineering feat, features 336 marble columns, some adorned with iconic Medusa heads, and once supplied water to Constantinople.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Byzantine Tour of Istanbul offers visitors a chance to explore the city’s rich history and ancient landmarks.

Guests can choose from 2-, 3-, or 5-hour tours, each with a focus on key attractions like the Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern.

The tours are led by expert guides who bring the Byzantine era to life through captivating stories and insights.

Travelers can save up to 7% on the tour price, and enjoy flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The tours are private, with group sizes limited to 1-25 guests per guide for an intimate experience.

Exploring Istanbul’s Old City

Exploring Istanbul’s Old City takes visitors on a captivating journey through the ancient ruins and landmarks of Constantinople, the storied capital of the Byzantine Empire.

A knowledgeable guide brings the city’s history to life, regaling guests with tales of daily life during the Byzantine era. Highlights include the Hippodrome, once the center of sport and entertainment, and the Bukoleon Palace, a stunning relic of imperial grandeur.

Visitors can imagine the splendor of the Byzantine era as they wander through these evocative sites, immersed in the rich cultural heritage of this remarkable city.

The History of Constantinople and the Byzantine Empire

Although Constantinople, the capital of the Byzantine Empire, boasts a rich and storied history, its roots can be traced back to the ancient Greek city of Byzantium. Founded in the 7th century BCE, Byzantium grew to become a thriving commercial hub.

In 324 CE, Constantine the Great chose the city as the new capital of the Roman Empire, renaming it Constantinople. Over the next millennium, the Byzantine Empire flourished, with Constantinople serving as the center of Orthodox Christianity and a bastion of culture and learning.

Today, the city’s Byzantine heritage can be seen in its magnificent landmarks, like the Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern.

Visiting Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia stands as one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, a testament to the city’s rich Byzantine heritage.

As part of the Byzantine Tour, visitors can explore this architectural marvel and learn about its fascinating history:

• Constructed in the 6th century, Hagia Sophia served as the centerpiece of the Byzantine Empire’s capital city, Constantinople.

• The structure seamlessly blends Christian and Islamic influences, having been converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest and now functioning as a museum.

• Visitors can admire the stunning interior, adorned with intricate mosaics and marble columns, and marvel at the engineering feat that’s the building’s massive central dome.

• Skip-the-line tickets ensure a hassle-free entry, allowing more time to take in the grandeur of this iconic Byzantine landmark.

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Exploring the Basilica Cistern

Along With the majestic Hagia Sophia, the Byzantine Tour also includes a visit to the captivating Basilica Cistern.

Descending underground, visitors are awed by the vast cistern’s impressive Byzantine engineering. The cavernous space is supported by 336 marble columns, some bearing the iconic Medusa heads.

Descending underground, visitors are awed by the vast cistern’s impressive Byzantine engineering, with 336 marble columns, some bearing Medusa heads.

Visitors can explore the serene, dimly-lit space and marvel at the ingenious design that once provided Constantinople with water. The Basilica Cistern offers a unique glimpse into the city’s past, showcasing the architectural marvels of the Byzantine Empire.

The 5-hour tour option includes skip-the-line tickets, allowing more time to take in this underground wonder.

Tour Options and Durations

The Byzantine Tour of Istanbul offers travelers three distinct options to explore the city’s captivating Byzantine heritage.

Guests can choose between a 2-hour, 3-hour, or 5-hour tour. The 2-hour tour focuses on the ancient ruins of Constantinople, including the Hippodrome and stories of daily Byzantine life.

The 3-hour tour delves into the iconic Hagia Sophia, examining its Christian and Islamic elements.

The 5-hour tour combines visits to the Basilica Cistern and Hagia Sophia, providing an in-depth exploration of Byzantine engineering.

All tours are led by expert guides and feature skip-the-line access to key attractions.

Group Information and Inclusions

The Byzantine Tour of Istanbul accommodates small to medium-sized groups, with a maximum of 25 guests per guide.

Larger groups can be accommodated with additional guides at a higher cost.

The tour includes a private walking exploration of Istanbul’s Old City, with the number of attractions visited depending on the selected tour option.

A history expert-guide fluent in the selected language provides insightful commentary throughout the tour.

Plus, the tour offers free admission to the Little Hagia Sophia, a significant Byzantine architectural landmark.

Important Details and Meeting Point

Travelers meet for the Byzantine Tour of Istanbul at the World Heritage Center Hotel, located at Alemdar, Divanyolu Caddesi, Dr. Eminpaşa Sk. No:2, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey.

Guests should be prepared for:

Guests should be prepared for security checks, modest attire, and potential wait times during the walking tour.

• Security checks and mosque etiquette, including modest attire and headscarves for women.

• Women allowed only in the visitors’ area during prayers.

• Skip-the-line tickets that expedite entry but require waiting for ticket validation and security checks.

• Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate attire recommended for the walking tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do We Get Free Time for Independent Exploration?

The tour doesn’t include dedicated free time for independent exploration. However, guests can explore the sites at their own pace within the given tour duration. The guide can also provide recommendations for self-guided activities after the tour.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit Our Interests?

The tour can be customized to suit your interests. You can choose from different duration options and select the attractions you want to visit. The guide will tailor the experience to your preferences.

What Is the Cancellation Policy in Case of Emergencies?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing for flexibility in case of emergencies. Customers can reserve now and pay later, providing additional convenience.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour is generally accessible for individuals with disabilities. The provider offers assistance with wheelchair access, and can accommodate guests with special needs. Visitors should contact the tour operator in advance to discuss any specific requirements.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

Yes, the tour offers discounts for students and seniors. Customers can save up to 7% by booking the tour, with prices ranging from Kč 4,908 to Kč 4,565 per person.

The Sum Up

The Byzantine Tour of Istanbul offers a captivating journey into the city’s rich past. Visitors are transported to the glory of the Byzantine Empire, marveling at the architectural wonders of Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern. With knowledgeable guides, this tour immerses participants in the splendor of a bygone era, leaving them with a deeper appreciation for Istanbul’s remarkable heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: