Byzantine & Ottoman Tour

Within Istanbul, there is an abundance of history displayed in the Byzantine and Ottoman buildings. Standing proudly and dominating the skyline, these buildings make up some of the top “must see sites” of the world. UNESCO has also placed them on their world heritage list reflecting their importance in introducing us to the Byzantine and Ottoman periods.

Buildings we will visit on this tour include:

Hagia Sophia
This building started life in the Byzantine era. Its architecture and purpose as a church changed when Istanbul fell to the Islamic Ottoman Empire.

Blue Mosque
Also known as the Sultan Ahmed mosque, it is the largest in Turkey. It was the pride of the Ottoman sultans and has stood for over 400 years.

Hippodrome & Obelisks
First built in the Byzantine era, this landmark was the centre of sporting and racing events in the old Constantinople

Grand Bazaar
One of the largest bazaars in the world, it still carries on many traditions from the Ottoman days when Istanbul was a major trading centre and part of the Silk Road route.

Topkapi Palace
The first palace of the Ottoman Sultans, it is an extensive maze of relics and impressive architecture.

Suleymaniye Mosque
The second famous mosque of Istanbul, it was an imperial building, still admired today for the subtle blend of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture.

Further Information
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The Grand Bazaar is not open on Sundays and Hagia Sophia is not open on Mondays.
Departure Time: 9:00am
Duration: 8 hours (approx.)
Included: Hotel pickup and drop off - Entrance fees - Local guide - Transport by private vehicle