Tour to Byzantium

The "Tour to Byzantium" promises a captivating journey through Istanbul’s rich Byzantine heritage. Priced at $81.42 per person, this 4-hour excursion takes participants to significant sites like the Byzantine city walls, Kariye Museum, and Anemas Dungeons. With air-conditioned transportation and hotel pick-up, the tour offers a unique, less crowded experience for history enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking insights into the 1,000-year dominance of the Byzantine Empire or simply want to uncover the secrets of this captivating city, this tour is well worth considering.

Key Points

• The "Tour to Byzantium" focuses on exploring Istanbul’s rich Byzantine heritage, including the city walls, Kariye Museum, and Church of Panagia.
• The 4-hour tour is priced at $81.42 per person and is available in English and Spanish, with complimentary hotel pick-up and drop-off.
• The tour provides insight into the Byzantine Empire’s 1,000-year control of Istanbul, visiting key sites like the Patriarchate at Fener and 5th-century city walls.
• Shuttle transportation and museum fees are included, with a minimum of 6 participants required for the tour to operate every Tuesday afternoon.
• Guests should bring their passport or ID card, as it is required for access during the tour, which prohibits pets and smoking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The "Tour to Byzantium" offers visitors an in-depth exploration of Istanbul’s remarkable Byzantine heritage.

Priced from $81.42 per person, the 4-hour tour is available in English and Spanish. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve their spot with no upfront payment.

The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, museum fees, hotel pick-up, and drop-off. Participants will visit the Byzantine city walls, Kariye Museum, Church of Panagia, Anemas Dungeons, and Tekfur Palace, as well as the scenic Golden Horn.

A minimum of 6 people is required for the tour to operate every Tuesday afternoon.

Itinerary Highlights

During the tour, visitors can explore a range of significant Byzantine sites in Istanbul.

They’ll tour the Byzantine city walls, the Kariye Museum (St. Savior in Chora), and the Church of Panagia of Blachernae. The Anemas Dungeons and Tekfur Palace are also part of the itinerary.

Plus, the tour includes a visit to the Golden Horn, the natural naval harbor of the Byzantines.

Throughout the experience, guests will learn about the Byzantine Empire’s history and its 1,000-year control of Istanbul, from the 4th to 15th centuries AD.

The tour covers key sites like the Patriarchate at Fener and the remains of the 5th-century city walls.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, museum entrance fees, and pick-up service from centrally-located hotels in Istanbul, with hotel drop-off provided upon completion.

A free shuttle pick-up is offered between 13:00 and 14:00, with a duration of 45 to 60 minutes.

A minimum of 6 participants is required for the tour to operate, and it’s guaranteed to depart on Tuesday afternoons.

Alternative meeting points are provided for hotels not accessible for pick-up.

Guests should contact the local supplier after booking to confirm the exact time and shuttle availability.

Customer Reviews

Travelers have shared their thoughts on the Byzantium Tour, providing an overall rating of 3.8 out of 5 based on 25 reviews.

Positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who offer unique historical insights into the Byzantine Empire’s 1,000-year control of Istanbul. Visitors interested in Christian history and seeking a less crowded experience recommend the tour.

However, some guests note areas for improvement, such as the tour’s pace or accessibility.

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Important Information

Before embarking on the tour, guests should bring their passport or ID card, as it may be required for access.

The tour prohibits pets and smoking.

To ensure a smooth experience, guests should contact the local supplier after booking to confirm the exact tour time and shuttle availability. Alternative meeting points are provided for hotels that the shuttle can’t access.

The tour includes:

1. Passport or ID card

2. No pets allowed

3. No smoking allowed

4. Contact local supplier after booking

Exploring the Byzantine Legacy

As visitors embark on the tour, they’ll have the opportunity to explore the remarkable legacy of the Byzantine Empire, which controlled Istanbul for over a millennium. The itinerary highlights significant sites that provide insights into this influential civilization. From the impressive Byzantine city walls to the stunning Kariye Museum and the Church of Panagia of Blachernae, the tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Byzantium’s architectural and historical wonders. Visitors will also visit the Golden Horn, the Anemas Dungeons, and the Tekfur Palace, seeing the captivating story of this bygone era.

| Site | Description |

| — | — |

| Byzantine City Walls | Expansive fortifications that protected the city for centuries |

| Kariye Museum (St. Savior in Chora) | Renowned for its well-preserved Byzantine mosaics and frescoes |

| Church of Panagia of Blachernae | A significant religious site and a testament to Byzantine architectural prowess |

| Anemas Dungeons | Intriguing underground structures that were once used as prisons |

| Tekfur Palace | The last surviving palace of the Byzantine Empire in Istanbul |

Discovering the Golden Horn

Where does the tour take visitors next?

After exploring the Byzantine city walls, the group heads to the iconic Golden Horn – the natural harbor that was crucial to the Byzantines.

The Golden Horn offers a unique perspective on the city’s maritime history.

Offering a unique vantage point on Istanbul’s storied maritime heritage, the Golden Horn is a captivating natural harbor.

The tour highlights include:

1. Viewing the convergence of the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus Strait, the strategic waterways that shaped Istanbul’s development.

2. Learning about the Byzantines’ naval dominance and the role of the Golden Horn in their military and commercial success.

3. Observing the vibrant neighborhoods and historic landmarks along the Golden Horn’s shores.

4. Understanding the significance of this natural harbor in the region’s past and present.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not have a strict dress code, but comfortable, modest clothing is recommended. Visitors should avoid revealing or overly casual attire, as they’ll be visiting historical sites and religious structures.

Do the Tour Guides Speak Any Other Languages Besides English and Spanish?

The tour guides speak English and Spanish, though they may accommodate other languages if requested in advance. Guests are advised to inquire about language options when booking the tour.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t offer any discounts or special offers. However, customers can take advantage of the free cancellation option up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund if their plans change.

Can the Tour Be Customized or Personalized for Individual Needs?

The tour can’t be customized or personalized for individual needs. It’s a set itinerary with no options to modify the schedule or activities. However, the supplier may accommodate special requests if notified in advance.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour, and Are There Any Restrictions?

Photography is allowed on the tour, but there may be restrictions at certain historical sites. Visitors should check with the tour guide for any site-specific rules before taking photos. Flash photography may also be prohibited in some areas.

The Sum Up

The "Tour to Byzantium" offers a unique opportunity to explore Istanbul’s rich Byzantine history. Priced at $81.42 per person, this 4-hour journey takes visitors to significant sites like the Byzantine city walls and Kariye Museum, providing insights into the empire’s 1,000-year dominance over the city. With air-conditioned transportation and a minimum of 6 participants, it’s an ideal experience for history enthusiasts seeking a less crowded exploration of Istanbul’s Byzantine legacy.

You can check availability for your dates here: