Why This Tour Is Worth Choosing

• Visit Hagia Sophia: Explore its architectural beauty and history.
• Discover the Blue Mosque: Admire the stunning Iznik tiles and domes.
• See the Roman Hippodrome: View the ancient chariot racing arena.
• Experience the Grand Bazaar: Wander through one of the world’s oldest markets.
• Half-Day Morning Tour Highlights: Explore Istanbul’s Byzantine heritage in a short time.

What to Expect

Byzantine Relics Walking Tour in Istanbul

Half-Day Morning Walking Tour

Step back into the glorious past of Constantinople with this carefully designed Byzantine Relics Walking Tour, a half-day morning experience that combines historical depth with an enjoyable city walk. This tour is ideal for travelers who want to explore Istanbul’s most iconic Byzantine-era landmarks on foot while gaining meaningful cultural insight.

Explore the Byzantine Heart of Istanbul

This walking tour focuses on the historic peninsula, once the political, religious, and social center of the Byzantine Empire. Accompanied by a professional guide, you will uncover the stories, symbols, and architectural wonders that shaped one of the most influential cities in world history.

Hippodrome of Constantinople

The Center of Ancient Public Life

The tour begins at the Hippodrome, once the vibrant hub of chariot races, ceremonies, and public gatherings during the Byzantine period. Although the stadium itself no longer stands, its monumental relics remain as silent witnesses to history.

Highlights at the Hippodrome include:

• German Fountain of Wilhelm II, a gift symbolizing late Ottoman–German relations
• Egyptian Obelisk, originally erected by Pharaoh Thutmose III
• Serpentine Column, brought from Delphi after the Persian Wars
• Walled Obelisk, a reminder of imperial Roman engineering

Your guide will explain the political symbolism and cultural importance of each monument in the context of Byzantine Constantinople.

Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)

A Masterpiece of Ottoman Architecture

Next, visit the world-famous Blue Mosque, one of Istanbul’s most recognizable landmarks. Built between 1609 and 1616 during the reign of Sultan Ahmed I, this mosque represents the transition from Byzantine influence to Ottoman grandeur.

Inside, you will admire:

• Over 20,000 hand-painted blue İznik tiles
• Elegant domes inspired by Byzantine architectural principles
• A harmonious blend of light, space, and symmetry

Although Ottoman in origin, the mosque’s design reflects centuries of architectural evolution shaped by Byzantine heritage.

Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque

A Timeless Architectural Wonder

(Museum fee not included)

The highlight of the tour is Hagia Sophia, one of the most significant monuments in human history. First constructed in the 4th century under Emperor Constantine the Great and rebuilt in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian, Hagia Sophia stood for nearly 1,000 years as the largest cathedral in the world.

During the visit, you will learn about:

• Its transformation from church to mosque, museum, and mosque again
• Byzantine mosaics and imperial symbolism
• Its groundbreaking dome and architectural innovations

Hagia Sophia remains a powerful symbol of Istanbul’s layered identity and spiritual heritage.

Grand Covered Bazaar

End of Tour & Free Time for Exploration

The walking tour concludes at the legendary Grand Covered Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest markets in the world. Dating back over 600 years, the bazaar is home to more than 4,000 shops spread across a labyrinth of covered streets.

Here, you can explore at your own pace and discover:

• Hand-painted ceramics and traditional tiles
• Copperware and handcrafted metalwork
• Onyx souvenirs and fine jewelry
• Turkish carpets, textiles, and local gifts

There is no return transfer to the hotel, allowing you the freedom to continue shopping or explore the surrounding area independently.

Tour Details at a Glance

• Tour Type: Guided walking tour
• Duration: Half-day (morning)
• Ending Point: Grand Bazaar
• Return Transfer: Not included
• Museum Fees: Not included
• Suitable For: History lovers, first-time visitors, cultural explorers

Why Choose This Walking Tour?

This tour offers the perfect balance between informative storytelling and a relaxed walking pace, making it suitable for travelers who want more than just photos. With expert guidance and carefully selected landmarks, it brings the Byzantine era to life while seamlessly connecting it to modern Istanbul.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does the Byzantine Relics Walking Tour last?
The tour is a half-day morning program and takes approximately 4 hours.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes. The walking pace is moderate and suitable for most ages. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Are museum entrance fees included in the price?
No. Entrance fees, including Hagia Sophia, are not included.

Does the tour include a return transfer to the hotel?
No. The tour ends at the Grand Bazaar and does not include a return hotel transfer.

Can I continue shopping at the Grand Bazaar after the tour?
Yes. After the tour ends, you are free to explore and shop at the Grand Bazaar on your own.

Is the tour guided?
Yes. The tour is led by a professional, licensed guide who provides historical and cultural insights throughout the walk.

What’s Included in the Price

Pickup Information

Meeting Point

Important Information Before You Go

What to Know Before the Byzantine Relics Walking Tour

Planning Your Experience
Planning a Byzantine Relics Walking Tour in Istanbul? Discover essential details, including pick-up arrangements, entry fees, and cultural guidelines to ensure a smooth, enriching journey through the city’s historical heritage.

Duration & Timing
Expect the tour to last about 4–5 hours in the morning. Wear comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. Consider bringing an umbrella if rain is likely.

Museum Fees
Admission fees for sites like Hagia Sophia are not included in the tour price. Purchase tickets in advance or on-site, depending on your preference.

Pick-Up & Meeting Point
Morning Tour: Complimentary pick-up service is available for guests staying at centrally located hotels. Guests staying at other hotels should meet at the Sultanahmet Bukhara 93 Restaurant.

Afternoon Tour: Hotel pick-up is not provided. The meeting point for the afternoon tour is also at Sultanahmet Bukhara 93 Restaurant.

For both tours, please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes early to ensure a prompt start.

Tour Size & Experience
Enjoy a small group setting for a more personalized and interactive exploration of Istanbul’s Byzantine relics.

Tour Rules & Tips
Respect religious sites by dressing modestly; women may need to wear headscarves in mosques. Always request permission before photographing religious or culturally sensitive areas. Follow your guide closely for safety and a richer experience. Be punctual, as the tour starts promptly and will not wait for late arrivals.

End Location
The tour concludes at the Grand Bazaar, allowing you to continue exploring Istanbul at your own pace. Please note that hotel drop-off service is not provided.

Health & Safety
If you have any health concerns, inform your guide beforehand to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience through Istanbul’s rich history.

Tour Program & Schedule

Istanbul Byzantine Relics Walking Tour
Half-Day Morning Tour with Local Guide

Explore Istanbul's rich Byzantine history on this half-day morning walking tour. Discover iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar with a knowledgeable local guide. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Sultanahmet Square and, time permitting, visit the ancient Byzantine Hippodrome.

• Pick-Up and Drop-Off: Enjoy convenient pick-up from centrally located Istanbul hotels. The tour ends at the Grand Bazaar, and no hotel drop-off service is provided.
• Tour Details: Museum entrance fees are not included in the price. The tour offers in-depth commentary on Istanbul's Byzantine heritage, with ample time for questions.

Upgrade to the Full-Day Byzantine and Ottoman Heritage Tour for a deeper experience, including the Topkapi Palace and all half-day tour sites.

Additional Information:

• Tour Ends at Grand Bazaar: Continue exploring the bazaar at your leisure after the tour.
• Alternative Visits: If Hagia Sophia is closed, the tour will include a visit to the Basilica Cistern.
• Grand Bazaar Closed on Sundays: Alternative bazaars will be visited.
• No Hotel Drop-Off: Transportation back to your hotel is not included.

Book your Istanbul Byzantine Relics Walking Tour today and step into the ancient heart of Istanbul, exploring its legendary Byzantine treasures.

Prices & Availability

01 January 2026 / 31 December 2026 - Price