Top Reasons to Choose This Tour:

• Topkapi Palace & Surroundings Half-Day Afternoon Tour
• Topkapi Palace: Explore the majestic residence of Ottoman sultans, showcasing Holy Relics and the grandeur of Ottoman history.
• Hagia Eirene Church: A glimpse into one of Istanbul's oldest Byzantine churches (Visit may be limited due to time constraints).
• Gulhane Park: Stroll through this historic park, once the palace's outer garden, offering scenic views and lush greenery (Visit may be limited due to time constraints).

What to Expect:

Ottoman Splendours: Explore Istanbul's Glorious Past on a Daily Afternoon Tour

Embark on an immersive journey into the heart of the Ottoman Empire with our half-day afternoon tour in Istanbul. This experience reveals the rich legacy of Ottoman sultans and the historical wonders of the city.

Your tour begins at Topkapi Palace, the main residence and administrative hub of the Ottoman Empire from the 15th to 19th centuries. Built on Istanbul’s ancient Roman Acropolis in Sarayburnu, the palace showcases a blend of Ottoman grandeur and commitment to art.

Covering 700,000 square meters, the palace was home to the ruling dynasty and court. Treasures include the Imperial Treasury with its jewelry and artifacts, and the Baghdad Pavilion, admired for its architecture and scenic views. The Sacred Relics collection, respected in Islamic culture, and the Kitchen Section with rare Chinese celadon ceramics are must-sees.

Next, we visit Hagia Irene Church (time permitting), a significant Byzantine landmark. Constructed over a pre-Christian temple, it’s one of the few churches not converted into a mosque. Used as an arsenal until the 19th century, it reflects religious harmony in the city’s history.

Our final stop is Gulhane Park (time permitting), historically part of Topkapi Palace’s gardens. Known for the Gulhane Edict—a key moment in Ottoman modernization—the park has scenic paths and tranquil greenery. Once home to the Istanbul Zoo, it’s a beautiful space blending history and nature.

After Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror’s 1453 conquest, Istanbul rose as the Ottoman Empire’s capital. Sultan Mehmed allowed the Greek Orthodox community religious freedom, appointing a new patriarch and marking a legacy of tolerance.

This walking tour does not include hotel pick-up/drop-off, and museum entrance fees are additional. With a professional guide, you’ll explore Istanbul’s key Ottoman sites, offering a rich experience for history enthusiasts.

Price included:

Pick Up Place:

Hotel pick-up and drop-off services are not included in this tour. Participants are responsible for arranging their own transportation to the meeting point.

Pick up Point:

The meeting point for the tour is Sultanahmed Square. Please ensure to arrive 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time.

Details to know:

Things to Know:

1. Tour Duration: The tour typically lasts around 4-5 hours, covering key Ottoman landmarks in Istanbul.
2. Entrance Fees: Some sites, like Topkapi Palace, may require an additional entrance fee that is not included in the tour price.
3. Timing: The tour focuses on afternoon visits, so plan to be available for a 1-2 PM start.
4. Professional Guide: A licensed guide will provide detailed historical insights into the Ottoman Empire’s influence on the city.
5. Walking Tour: The tour involves walking, so wear comfortable shoes.
6. Additional Stops: Some tours may include extra stops like Hagia Irene Church and Gulhane Park, depending on time.
7. Photography: Photography is allowed at most sites, but check for restrictions, especially inside museums and mosques.
8. Dress Code: Modest clothing is required when visiting religious sites such as mosques.

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Rules:

1. No Hotel Pick-Up: The tour usually does not offer hotel pick-up and drop-off, so participants must arrange their own transportation.
2. Arrival Time: It is advised to arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes early.
3. Respect Sacred Sites: Be respectful when visiting religious sites and avoid loud behavior or inappropriate attire.
4. Group Size: Group sizes may be limited to ensure a better experience; make sure to book in advance.
5. Time Limitations: Some stops may be shorter than others depending on time constraints, so be mindful of the schedule.

Additional information:

Half-Day Afternoon Ottoman Relics Istanbul City Tour Program

Join this afternoon tour to delve into Istanbul’s rich Ottoman heritage.

• Topkapi Palace (extra): Explore the former residence of Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. The palace complex features four main courtyards, significant Islamic relics, and items such as the clock and sword of Prophet Muhammad.
• Harem Section (extra): An optional visit to the private chambers of the sultans within Topkapi Palace.
• Hagia Eirene Church (visit may be limited due to time constraints): A historic Byzantine church with unique architecture.
• Gulhane Park (visit may be limited due to time constraints): Once part of Topkapi’s outer gardens, now a beautiful public park.

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After the tour, you have the option to continue exploring the city independently.

Optional Full-Day Ottoman and Byzantine Heritages Tour
For a deeper exploration, select the full-day tour in the Extra add-ons section. This tour includes Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Byzantine Hippodrome, and Grand Bazaar.

Period & Price:

01 January 2024 / 31 December 2024 - Price

01 January 2025 / 31 December 2025 - Price

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