Why This Tour Is Worth Choosing

• Explore Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks in one full-day walking tour
• Visit the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Grand Bazaar
• Learn about Byzantine and Ottoman history with a professional guide
• Stroll through the historic Hippodrome and see ancient monuments
• Experience authentic local culture in the heart of the Old City

What to Expect

Byzantine & Ottoman Relics – Full-Day Guided Walking Tour of Istanbul

A Journey Through Time in the Heart of the Old City

Discover Istanbul as a living museum on this full-day guided walking tour through the historic Old City. The Byzantine & Ottoman Relics Tour reveals the layers of empires that shaped the city — from Byzantine emperors to Ottoman sultans — through iconic monuments, sacred spaces, and timeless streets. Led by a professional guide, this experience blends history, culture, and storytelling into an unforgettable day.

Why Choose the Byzantine & Ottoman Relics Tour

This tour is designed for travelers who want to understand Istanbul beyond the surface. Every stop connects architecture, belief, and power, offering context that brings centuries of history to life.

What Makes This Tour Special

• Full-day guided walking tour in the Old City
• Expert historical narration and cultural insight
• Iconic landmarks from Byzantine and Ottoman eras
• A balanced pace with time to absorb each site
• Ideal for history lovers and first-time visitors

Tour Highlights

Hippodrome of Constantinople

Begin where ancient Constantinople once gathered for celebration, politics, and spectacle. The Hippodrome was the social and ceremonial center of Byzantine life, and its monuments still stand as silent witnesses to imperial glory.

Key Monuments of the Hippodrome

• Obelisk of Theodosius – an ancient Egyptian monument brought to Constantinople
• Serpentine Column – once part of the Delphi sanctuary
• German Fountain of Wilhelm II – a symbol of 19th-century diplomacy
• Walled Obelisk – a testament to endurance through centuries

Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque)

Step into one of Istanbul’s most elegant mosques, famous for its six minarets and exquisite İznik tiles. The harmony of light, space, and devotion creates a serene atmosphere that reflects Ottoman architectural mastery.

Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque

Stand beneath the legendary dome of Hagia Sophia, where Byzantine innovation meets Ottoman reverence. Originally built as a church, later a mosque, and now a grand mosque again, Hagia Sophia embodies the spiritual and political evolution of Istanbul.

Ticket-Only Option with Audio Guide for Hagia Sophia

If you prefer to explore Hagia Sophia at your own pace, you can choose this ticket-only option with an audio guide. It provides entrance access and an audio guide service, without a live tour guide or additional activities.

https://vigotours.com/istanbul-turkey/hagia-sophia-ticket-sales-point

Grand Bazaar

Enter one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. With more than 4,000 shops, the Grand Bazaar is a vibrant maze of craftsmanship, tradition, and trade, continuing a commercial legacy that dates back over 500 years.

Hagia Irene Church

Hidden within the outer courtyards of Topkapi Palace, Hagia Irene is one of the earliest Byzantine churches in Istanbul. Never converted into a mosque, it preserves a rare and authentic atmosphere of early Christian architecture.

Topkapi Palace

Conclude the tour at the former residence of Ottoman sultans. Topkapi Palace is not just a royal complex, but a city within a city — filled with courtyards, imperial chambers, sacred relics, and priceless treasures that reflect centuries of empire.

What to Expect During the Tour

• Guided historical explanations at each site
• Walking-based exploration at a comfortable pace
• Cultural context connecting monuments and eras
• A deep understanding of Istanbul’s imperial past

Experience Istanbul as a Living Story

This tour is more than sightseeing. It is a journey through time, where every stone carries a story and every monument connects continents, cultures, and centuries. Walk the same paths as emperors and sultans, and discover why Istanbul remains one of the most fascinating cities in the world.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?

The tour is a full-day walking experience, typically lasting 7–8 hours including site visits.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?

Yes, but participants should be comfortable with walking and standing for extended periods.

Are entrance fees included?

Entrance policies may vary by site. Please check tour details at booking.

Is this a walking-only tour?

Yes, the tour is conducted entirely on foot within the Old City.

Is a professional guide included?

Yes, the tour is led by a licensed, knowledgeable professional guide.

What should I wear?

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Modest clothing is required for mosque visits.

👉 Book now and explore Istanbul not just as a destination, but as a timeless crossroads of history and civilization.

What’s Included in the Price

Pickup Information

Meeting Point

Important Information Before You Go

Important Information for the Byzantine & Ottoman Relics Tour

Tour Availability
• This tour does not operate on Tuesdays and Fridays due to museum closures and prayer times.

Lunch
• Lunch is not included in the tour price. Food and beverages are at the participants' own expense.

Site Closures & Alternatives
• Grand Bazaar: Closed on Sundays → Visit replaced with Arasta Bazaar
• Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia: Closed on Friday mornings during prayer → Exterior view only until 1:00 PM
• Topkapi Palace & Hagia Irene: Closed on Tuesdays → Tour not available on this day

Dress Code for Religious Sites
When visiting Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, proper attire is required to respect the sacred atmosphere:

For Women
• Headscarf is mandatory
• Shoulders and arms must be covered
• Skirts or pants must go below the knees
• Avoid tight-fitting or transparent clothing

For Men
• Short-sleeved shirts are fine; sleeveless shirts are not allowed
• Long trousers are required
• No entry with shorts or tank tops

General Guidelines
• Shoes must be removed before entering mosques
• Socks are recommended
• Scarves and covering garments are provided at mosque entrances if needed

Walking Pace
This is a comfortable-paced walking tour, suitable for all ages. Wearing comfortable shoes is highly recommended for an enjoyable experience.

Tour Program & Schedule

Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia Museum, Topkapi Palace, and Grand Bazaar Tour Program

Experience the must-see historical marvels of Istanbul and immerse yourself in the ancient city’s rich cultural heritage!

Tour Schedule:

• 08:30 – Pick-up from centrally located hotels on the European side of Istanbul
• Ancient Hippodrome – Explore the historic gathering place of Byzantine chariot races
• Topkapi Palace & Holy Relics – Discover the grandeur of the Ottoman palace and its sacred relics
• Hagia Sophia – Visit the awe-inspiring former cathedral and mosque
• Blue Mosque – Admire this iconic masterpiece of Ottoman architecture
• Grand Bazaar – Wander through one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets
• Hagia Eirene Church – Step into one of Istanbul’s oldest churches, with origins in the Byzantine period
• 17:00 – End of tour and return to hotels

Don’t leave Istanbul without witnessing these incredible historical landmarks!

Prices & Availability

01 January 2026 / 31 December 2026 - Price