Istanbul: Hagia Sophia, Chora Church, and Balat Tour

Explore Istanbul’s rich Byzantine heritage on this captivating 4-hour tour. Explore the city’s storied past, marveling at the architectural wonders of Hagia Sophia and the recently reopened Chora Church. Enjoy the vibrant Balat neighborhood, savoring local delicacies and sipping Turkish coffee. With expert guidance available in multiple languages, this tour offers a captivating insight into Istanbul’s enduring legacy. Uncover the city’s hidden gems and unravel the intricate tapestry of its history. What secrets will you uncover on this unforgettable adventure?

Key Points

• This guided tour covers the highlights of Istanbul, including the iconic Hagia Sophia, the Chora Church, and the vibrant Balat neighborhood.
• The tour lasts 4 hours and is available in multiple languages, with a maximum group size of 4 participants.
• Visitors will explore the Obelisk of Theodosius III, Hagia Sophia, and Chora Church, learning about Istanbul’s rich Byzantine heritage.
• The Balat neighborhood tour offers a culture experience with local snacks and Turkish coffee.
• The tour can be canceled for free up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour, titled "Istanbul: Hagia Sophia, Chora Church, and Balat Tour," is priced at €276.36 per group (up to 4 participants) and lasts for 4 hours.

Available in English, French, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish, it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The itinerary highlights include guided tours of the Obelisk of Theodosius III, Hagia Sophia, Chora Church, and Balat.

Transportation is provided between select sites.

The tour provides access to the recently reopened Chora Church, a Byzantine art masterpiece, and offers insight into Istanbul’s history and culture with a multilingual guide.

Itinerary Highlights

Starting at the German Fountain, the tour begins with a 30-minute guided exploration of the Obelisk of Theodosius III, a remarkable ancient monument.

The next stop is the famous Hagia Sophia, where visitors enjoy a 45-minute guided tour and marvel at the architectural masterpiece.

After, the group travels by car for 30 minutes to the Chora Church, a Byzantine art jewel that has recently reopened.

There, they’ll spend 45 minutes discovering the church’s stunning mosaics and frescoes.

The final highlight is a 1.5-hour guided tour through the vibrant Balat neighborhood, including local snacks and coffee.

The Obelisk of Theodosius III

Standing tall at the German Fountain, the Obelisk of Theodosius III is a remarkable ancient monument that kicks off the tour.

Erected in the 4th century, this 32-foot-tall obelisk was originally located in the Hippodrome, a former chariot racing stadium.

During the 30-minute guided tour, visitors will learn about the obelisk’s history and significance in Istanbul’s past.

The guide will share insights into the intricate hieroglyphic carvings and the obelisk’s transportation from Egypt.

This stop sets the stage for the day’s exploration of Istanbul’s rich Byzantine heritage.

Hagia Sophia

From the Obelisk of Theodosius III, the tour moves on to the magnificent Hagia Sophia.

This former Byzantine cathedral-turned-mosque-turned-museum is an architectural marvel. Guests enjoy a 45-minute guided tour, learning about its rich history and iconic features.

The Hagia Sophia’s massive domed ceiling, intricate mosaics, and towering columns captivate visitors. After paying the entrance fee of €25 per person, guests can explore this UNESCO World Heritage site at their own pace.

The guide offers valuable insights, enhancing the experience. This stop on the Istanbul tour provides a deep dive into the city’s Byzantine heritage.

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Chora Church

After the captivating exploration of Hagia Sophia, the tour continues its journey to the Chora Church. This Byzantine masterpiece, newly reopened, offers a glimpse into Istanbul’s rich history. Guests embark on a 45-minute guided tour, seeing the church’s stunning mosaics and frescoes. The following table provides essential details about the Chora Church segment of the tour:

| Duration | Entrance Fee | Highlights |

| — | — | — |

| 45 minutes | €20 per person | – Renowned Byzantine art and architecture
– Newly reopened to the public
– Guided tour led by a knowledgeable guide
– Opportunity to explore the church’s intricate interior |

From the Chora Church, the tour then transitions to the vibrant neighborhood of Balat, where culture and local experiences await.

Balat: Taking in Local Culture

Leaving the historical grandeur of the Chora Church behind, the tour then transitions to the vibrant neighborhood of Balat, where guests embark on a 1.5-hour guided exploration of the area’s rich cultural tapestry.

Strolling through Balat’s colorful streets, the guide shares insights into the neighborhood’s Byzantine and Ottoman heritage, as well as its contemporary identity as a hub for artisans, craftspeople, and small businesses.

Visitors have the opportunity to sample local snacks and savor Turkish coffee, seeing the lively atmosphere that defines this distinctive district of Istanbul.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes a professional licensed guide in the selected language, air-conditioned transportation from Sultanahmet to Chora Church, and entrance fees for both Hagia Sophia and Chora Church.

A professional guide, air-conditioned transportation, and entrance fees to Hagia Sophia and Chora Church are included in the tour.

Non-alcoholic beverages are also provided. However, the price doesn’t cover hotel pick-up/drop-off or any extra personal expenses.

Visitors should bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, insect repellent, cash, and a scarf or sweater, as modest attire is required at some sites.

The tour may be unsuitable for pregnant women or individuals with mobility issues or certain health conditions.

Important Information

Visitors should bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, insect repellent, cash, and a scarf or sweater, as modest attire is required at some sites.

Those pregnant or with mobility issues or certain health conditions should avoid this tour. The itinerary may change due to prayer times, and entrance fees aren’t included in the price – cash is required for tickets.

While the tour provides a comprehensive experience, travelers should be prepared for transportation and walking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The tour is not suitable for individuals with certain health conditions, but the overview does not mention a minimum age requirement. Travelers should consult with the tour provider for any age restrictions.

Do I Need to Bring a Water Bottle or Can I Purchase One During the Tour?

You don’t need to bring a water bottle, as the tour includes non-alcoholic beverages. However, it’s a good idea to have a water bottle on hand to stay hydrated throughout the 4-hour tour.

Can the Guide Provide Recommendations for Local Restaurants in Balat?

Yes, the tour guide can provide recommendations for local restaurants in Balat. They have extensive knowledge of the area and can suggest authentic eateries that offer a unique cultural experience during the tour.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour’s itinerary is pre-set, but the guide can provide recommendations for local restaurants in Balat based on guests’ preferences. There’s no option to customize the tour, but the guide can suggest additional activities to enhance the experience.

Can I Take Photos Inside the Hagia Sophia and Chora Church?

Yes, visitors can take photos inside the Hagia Sophia and Chora Church during the tour. However, they should avoid using flash and respect any restrictions or guidelines provided by the sites to preserve the historic artifacts and architecture.

The Sum Up

This comprehensive tour offers a captivating exploration of Istanbul’s rich Byzantine heritage. Visitors will marvel at the grandeur of Hagia Sophia and the intricate mosaics of Chora Church, before seeing the vibrant culture of Balat. With knowledgeable guides and convenient inclusions, this tour provides an efficient and immersive way to experience the city’s acclaimed historical and architectural treasures.

You can check availability for your dates here: