Istanbul Ancient Monasteries Full-Day Tour With Lunch

Uncover the captivating Byzantine heritage of Istanbul on this comprehensive full-day tour. From the striking St. Polyeuktos Church to the breathtaking Chora Monastery, explore these ancient sites with the guidance of knowledgeable local experts. Savor a delightful lunch on a rooftop terrace, then dive deeper into the city’s rich spiritual and artistic legacies. With convenient transportation and a carefully curated itinerary, this tour promises an immersive journey into Istanbul’s storied past.

Key Points

• This full-day tour explores significant Byzantine sites in Istanbul, including the impressive ruins of St. Polyeuktos Church and the Pantokrator Church.
• The tour includes guided visits to ancient monasteries, chapels, and the enigmatic Aspar Cistern, providing insights into Byzantine art, culture, and spirituality.
• The highlight of the tour is the Chora Monastery, known for its magnificent frescoes and mosaics, offering an immersive experience in Istanbul’s architectural and cultural treasures.
• Knowledgeable guides share their expertise, and the tour includes transportation, lunch, entrance fees, and a donation to the churches.
• The tour is priced at $314.81 per person, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, and has an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 13 reviews.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

This full-day Istanbul Ancient Monasteries Tour provides an immersive exploration of the city’s rich Byzantine heritage.

Priced from $314.81 per person, the 8-hour tour includes guided visits to significant sites like the St. Polyeuktos Church Ruins, Pantokrator Church, and the renowned Chora Monastery.

Transportation from centrally located hotels and lunch on a roof terrace are provided.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can reserve their spot risk-free.

Knowledgeable guides offer insights into Byzantine art, culture, and spirituality, making this tour an enlightening adventure for history enthusiasts.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s itinerary highlights an immersive exploration of Istanbul’s ancient Byzantine heritage.

Visitors will discover the impressive ruins of St. Polyeuktos Church, the breathtaking frescoes and mosaics of Pantokrator Church, and the enigmatic Aspar Cistern.

They’ll also visit the Pammakristos Church, Chapel of St. John the Forerunner, and the renowned St. Saviour in Chora Monastery, renowned for its magnificent Byzantine art.

The tour culminates at the Tekfur Palace, providing a glimpse into the daily lives of the Byzantine elite.

Throughout the journey, knowledgeable guides share insights into the region’s captivating art, culture, and spirituality.

Experience and Insights

Visitors on the Istanbul Ancient Monasteries Tour can expect to discover the captivating Byzantine architecture and history of the region.

The knowledgeable guides provide insights into the Byzantine art, culture, and spirituality.

The highlight of the tour is the Chora Monastery, known for its magnificent frescoes and mosaics.

The Chora Monastery, renowned for its stunning frescoes and mosaics, is the highlight of the Istanbul Ancient Monasteries Tour.

Guests will also explore ancient monasteries, chapels, and cisterns, gaining a deeper understanding of the area’s rich Byzantine heritage.

The tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the architectural and cultural treasures of Istanbul’s past, providing a memorable and enlightening experience.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Istanbul Ancient Monasteries Tour includes a range of services to enhance the visitor experience. It covers guiding services in English, public transportation tickets, entrance fees, lunch, and a donation to the churches.

Transportation to and from the hotel is also provided. However, the tour excludes beverages during lunch and personal expenses.

Plus, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users. By including essential services and excluding optional extras, the tour offers a comprehensive yet customizable experience for visitors to explore Istanbul’s ancient Byzantine heritage.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

Customers have overwhelmingly praised the Istanbul Ancient Monasteries Tour, with an impressive overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 13 reviews.

Reviewers highlighted the knowledgeable guide, whose expertise on Byzantine art, culture, and spirituality enriched the experience. The tour’s transportation also received high marks, with 4.5/5 for convenience.

Notably, customers found the tour offered excellent value for money, with a 4.6/5 rating. Standout comments praised the highlights, such as the magnificent frescoes and mosaics at the Chora Monastery.

Exploring Byzantine Architecture and History

As the centerpiece of the Istanbul Ancient Monasteries Tour, visitors enjoy the captivating Byzantine architecture and rich historical tapestry woven throughout these ancient sites.

The tour provides an in-depth exploration of monasteries, churches, and chapels, allowing guests to witness the grandeur of Byzantine art and design.

From the intricate frescoes and mosaics at the Chora Monastery to the architectural wonders of the Pantokrator Church, the tour offers a comprehensive dive into the Byzantine era.

Knowledgeable guides share insights into the cultural and spiritual significance of these remarkable historic landmarks.

Discovering the Chora Monastery’s Magnificent Treasures

Amidst the captivating Byzantine architecture and history explored throughout the tour, the Chora Monastery stands as a highlight.

This 11th-century jewel is renowned for its magnificent frescoes and mosaics, offering a glimpse into the religious and artistic splendor of the Byzantine era.

Visitors are mesmerized by the intricate depictions of biblical scenes, religious figures, and symbolic motifs that adorn the monastery’s interior.

The tour guide’s expertise brings these treasures to life, sharing insights into the monastery’s significance and the skilled craftsmanship of its Byzantine artists.

Exploring the Chora Monastery is a true highlight, immersing guests in the awe-inspiring legacy of Byzantium.

Transportation and Accessibility

The tour provides pickup service from centrally-located hotels in the Taksim Square, Şişli, Beşiktaş, Sultanahmet, and Fatih neighborhoods of Istanbul. Transportation to and from the hotels is included in the tour price. However, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, as the ancient sites have uneven terrain and stairs.

| Pickup | Transportation | Accessibility |

| — | — | — |

| Available from centrally-located hotels | Included in tour price | Not suitable for wheelchair users |

| In Taksim Square, Şişli, Beşiktaş, Sultanahmet, and Fatih | Public transportation tickets provided | Ancient sites have uneven terrain and stairs |

| Pickup service included | No personal transportation provided | Mobility limitations may impact tour experience |

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Photography and Video-Taking Allowed at the Sites?

Photography and video-taking are generally allowed at the historical sites, but visitors should check with the guide or on-site staff for any specific restrictions. Some sites may have limited photo/video policies to preserve the sanctity and integrity of the locations.

Can I Customize the Tour to Visit Additional Sites?

The tour can likely be customized to visit additional sites, but this may come at an extra cost. Travelers should contact the tour provider to inquire about customization options and pricing prior to booking.

What Type of Cuisine Is Served for the Included Lunch?

The tour includes a lunch served on a roof terrace, featuring traditional Turkish cuisine. The specific menu may vary but typically includes dishes like meze platters, grilled meat or fish, and Turkish desserts.

Are There Any Physical Requirements or Limitations for the Tour?

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to uneven terrain and stairs at the ancient sites. Participants should be able to walk comfortably for extended periods and navigate some steep and narrow passages.

Can the Tour Be Adjusted for Children or Families?

The tour can be adjusted for families and children. While it’s not specifically designed for kids, the guides can tailor the experience to accommodate their needs and interests. Families should discuss any special requirements with the tour operator in advance.

The Sum Up

The Istanbul Ancient Monasteries Full-Day Tour provides an immersive experience into the city’s rich Byzantine heritage. With visits to key sites, a delightful lunch, and knowledgeable guides, it offers an opportunity to discover the architectural and artistic wonders of this captivating era. Whether you’re interested in Byzantine art, history, or spirituality, this tour promises an engaging and memorable exploration of Istanbul’s stunning Byzantine legacy.

You can check availability for your dates here: