Highlights | Overview

• 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).

Full Description

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.

Pick up Point

The meeting point for the tour is Sultanahmed Square.

Details to know

Half-Day Afternoon Ottoman Relics Istanbul City Tour

Discover Istanbul’s Ottoman heritage on a concise half-day afternoon tour, featuring highlights like Topkapi Palace. This tour captures the essence of Ottoman history and architecture.

For those seeking more, a full-day tour is available in the Extra add-ons, including Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia (audio-guided due to restrictions), Blue Mosque, Byzantine Hippodrome, and Grand Bazaar.

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.

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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