Byzantine-Heritage-Walking-Tour2356

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Byzantine Heritage Walking Tour

Discover the legacy of Byzantine Constantinople on this immersive walking tour through Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. From the grandeur of Hagia Sophia to the underground marvels of the Basilica Cistern, this tour offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Enjoy a scenic coffee break overlooking ancient ruins and end your journey with free time to explore the vibrant Grand Bazaar. This tour is ideal for those who want to experience the essence of Byzantium within a few hours while keeping walking distances manageable.

Tour Itinerary

German Fountain and the Hippodrome (09:00-09:45)

Meet your guide at the German Fountain (Alman Çesmesi) in Sultanahmet Square. Begin your journey at the historic Hippodrome, the social and sporting hub of Byzantine Constantinople. Here, your guide will introduce you to the fascinating stories of the site's iconic monuments, including the Obelisk of Theodosius, an ancient Egyptian obelisk brought to the city by Emperor Theodosius I; the Serpent Column, originally from the Temple of Apollo at Delphi; and the Walled Obelisk, constructed during the Byzantine period. These monuments stand as timeless witnesses to the grandeur of Byzantium.

Hagia Sophia (10:00-11:00)

Explore the stunning Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. Discover the stories of its construction and its transformation over the centuries.

Coffee Break with a View (11:15-12:00)

Take a short break at a terrace café overlooking the ruins of the Great Palace of Constantinople. Enjoy Turkish coffee or tea while I share insights into the palace's history.

Basilica Cistern (12:15-13:00)

Descend into the captivating Basilica Cistern, an extraordinary underground water reservoir built during the reign of Emperor Justinian I. Admire the atmospheric glow of its columns reflecting off the shallow water, and discover the mysterious Medusa heads that have intrigued visitors for centuries. I will share the engineering brilliance behind this hidden gem and its vital role in supplying water to the city.

Column of Constantine (Çemberlitas) (13:15-13:30)

Visit the historic Column of Constantine (Çemberlitas), a monument erected by Emperor Constantine the Great to mark the foundation of Constantinople. Located just a short walk from the Grand Bazaar, this is the final stop of the guided portion of the tour. After learning about its historical significance, I will provide you with tips and recommendations for exploring the Grand Bazaar, where you’ll have free time to shop, wander, or enjoy a local meal at your own pace.

Grand Bazaar

Conclude your tour at the bustling Grand Bazaar, a labyrinth of shops offering everything from spices to handcrafted goods. This iconic marketplace is yours to explore at your leisure, providing the perfect opportunity to experience Istanbul’s vibrant shopping culture and perhaps find a unique souvenir to take home.

Transportation

Walking

Scopes

Guiding

Professional guiding services by an experienced and licensed tour guide.

Coffee Break

A tea or coffee of your choice during the coffee break with a scenic view.

Skip The Line

Skip-the-Line Access: We will bypass ticket lines for faster entry. On busy days, guests may experience delays at x-ray security checks due to safety measures, which are beyond our control.

Museum entrance fees (ticket prices vary based on exchange rates):

Hagia Sophia: Approximately €30 per person. / Basilica Cistern: Approximately €25 per person.

Personal Expenses

Meals and beverages beyond the coffee/tea provided during the break and additional purchases during free time at the Grand Bazaar.

Tips

Optional, but appreciated.

Meeting Point

In front of German Fountain, Sultanahmet

Tour Videos

Help of the following FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

This is a walking tour, so comfortable footwear is recommended. All stops are within 1 km of each other to ensure a pleasant pace.

Your guide has the privilege of purchasing tickets in advance or online to avoid long queues at the entrance. While ticket fees are not included in the tour price, your tickets will be prepared in advance based on the number of participants. Payment for the tickets must be made in cash directly to your guide on the day of the tour. This ensures a smooth and efficient experience at each site.