Istanbul: Ertugrul and Osman Ghazi Movie Set Tour with Lunch

Exploring the World of Ertugrul and Osman Ghazi in Istanbul: An Honest Review

If you’re a fan of Turkish historical dramas or just curious about the legendary stories behind the series, the Ertugrul and Osman Ghazi Movie Set Tour offers a chance to step into those epic worlds without leaving Istanbul. We’ve looked into the experience, and while it’s definitely a fun and immersive outing, there are a few things to keep in mind before booking.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines visiting authentic-looking sets with interactive activities—like sword forging and archery—plus, the inclusion of a traditional Turkish lunch. The fact that it’s guided by knowledgeable staff makes the storytelling engaging and accessible. One thing to consider, however, is that some sets might be closed during your visit, and the experience leans heavily on the TV series, which might not appeal to everyone.

This tour works best for series fans, history buffs, or anyone wanting a taste of Turkish culture and storytelling in a lively, hands-on environment. If you’re after a relaxed, family-friendly experience or a deep dive into history, this might not be the perfect fit. But for those seeking a unique, entertaining day out, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Authentic Set Visits: You’ll see elaborate film sets from popular Turkish series, bringing TV scenes to life.
• Guided Insight: A licensed guide shares stories and details that add depth to your experience.
• Activities & Entertainment: Iron forging, archery, and live performances make the day interactive and fun.
• Lunch & Refreshments: Traditional Turkish fare with sherbet gives a taste of local hospitality.
• Some Sets May Be Closed: Not all filming locations are accessible every day, so flexibility is key.
• Price & Value: At $113, it offers a well-rounded experience with transport, entry, activities, and food included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What the Tour Includes and How It Plays Out

Starting Your Day in Istanbul

The tour kicks off with pickup from one of two central meeting points—either in front of Bilgins Leather & Fur or at the Ataturk Cultural Center in Taksim. Expect to be ready early, around 9:40 or 10:10 AM respectively, depending on your choice. From there, it’s a direct drive out of the city towards the sets, giving you a chance to get excited and chat with your guide about what’s ahead.

Visiting the Movie Sets

Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the impressive sets that portray scenes from the series about Ertugrul Ghazi and Osman Gazi, two iconic figures in Turkish history. We loved the way the sets are carefully crafted, with ornate details that make you feel like you’ve stepped into the TV world. Your guide—typically licensed and knowledgeable—will walk you through the scenes, stories, and historical context of the series, making it accessible whether you’re a history buff or a casual viewer.

Many reviews highlight the dedication of the guides. One reviewer raved, “Abdullah Bha the guide was very good, knew everything, and was super polite,” which shows how much the guides contribute to the overall experience. You’ll get a chance to see old tents, walk around the Kayi camp, and visit castles where some filming still takes place.

Costumes and Photo Opportunities

For an extra fee—around $50—you can try on costumes of Osman Bey or other characters, which is popular among visitors wanting to capture the moment. Some reviews mention this as a fun addition, although it’s optional.

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Live Performances and Activities

Post exploration, the group watches live performances—horse riding displays and traditional storytelling—adding an extra layer of excitement. These shows are set against the backdrop of the sets and really bring the stories to life for visitors.

Lunch and Refreshments

A traditional Turkish lunch awaits at a local restaurant. The food is described as “good” and “okay” by many, with the added bonus of sampling sherbet—a sweet, refreshing Turkish drink. It’s a nice touch that offers a break and a chance to soak in Turkish hospitality.

Interactive Experiences

After lunch, the tour includes complimentary activities such as forging iron and mastering archery. These hands-on sessions are well-received, with many reviewers noting they added a lot of fun and value to the day. For an extra fee, you can also try horseback riding and have your photos taken in authentic attire with a professional photographer—though these extras are paid separately.

Visiting Castles and Ruins

The visit also covers castles like Inegol, where you can see the throne of Aya Nikola, as seen in the series. Many find the castle visits especially photogenic, but some note that not all sets are open every day, which can be disappointing if you’re expecting a comprehensive tour.

The End of the Day

As the sun sets, the tour winds down with more performances, and then it’s time to head back to Istanbul. The drop-offs are at the same meeting points, and you’ll arrive back with a deeper appreciation for the stories, sets, and historical figures.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Authentic Sets & Costumes – The sets are designed to look just like in the series, giving you a real feel of what it’s like to walk through the series’ worlds. Many visitors loved snapping photos in costumes and wandering around castles. One review mentions, “a stroll at the old Kayi camp and visiting Dundar Bey’s tent,” adding to the immersive feeling.

Knowledgeable Guides & Live Performances – The guides are often praised for their friendliness and insight. The live horse shows and storytelling enhance the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing visit.

Interactive & Fun Activities – From archery to sword forging, these activities are engaging and add a memorable touch. People especially enjoyed the iron forging and archery sessions, which are included in the tour.

Good Value for Money – At $113, the price covers transportation, entry fees, lunch, activities, and shows. Reviewers feel it’s worth the cost, especially considering the variety of experiences packed into the day.

The Downsides & Considerations

Some Sets May Be Closed – Not all filming locations are accessible every day. If you’re hoping to see specific sets or scenes, that might be a letdown. One reviewer pointed out, “Half of the sets were closed but we could visit a few only.”

Waiting Times & Pacing – Some visitors felt the wait times before the live show and exploring the sets could be longer than expected. One review mentioned, “The entire event could be 4 hours, as most of the time is spent waiting.”

Extras Cost Money – Activities like wearing costumes, horseback riding, or buying souvenirs come at extra costs. Be prepared to pay more if you want to fully indulge.

Not Suitable for Wheelchair Users – The tour isn’t wheelchair friendly, which is worth noting if accessibility is a concern.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a series fan of Ertugrul or Kurulus Osman, this tour will satisfy your curiosity and bring those stories to life. It’s also great for history enthusiasts who enjoy visual storytelling and authentic set recreations. The added activities, live performances, and Turkish lunch make it a full, culturally immersive day.

However, if you’re looking for in-depth historical education or a more relaxed sightseeing experience, this might feel a bit too focused on TV sets and entertainment. It’s not ideal for those with mobility issues given the set closures and walking involved.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, return transportation from the designated meeting points is included in the tour price. You will be picked up early in the morning and returned to the same spots.

Can I join the tour if I don’t speak English?
The tour is guided in English, so some proficiency will help you follow the stories and explanations, but guides are generally friendly and helpful if you’re not fluent.

Are all the filming sets open for visitors?
No, some sets might be closed, especially if filming is happening on location. This can vary day by day, so flexibility is good.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, passport or ID card, and some cash for extras or souvenirs. The tour doesn’t specify any specific dress code, but comfortable shoes are recommended.

Are the activities suitable for children?
Most activities are suitable for older children, but younger kids might find some activities like iron forging or horseback riding less appropriate. Always check with the tour provider if traveling with children.

How long is the lunch break?
Lunch is part of the tour and provides a chance to relax, enjoy Turkish hospitality, and sample sherbet. The duration is enough to refuel before the activities continue.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While it’s engaging for fans and those interested in Turkish history or TV, it might not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues, especially since some sets could be closed and activities are optional.

What’s the overall vibe of the experience?
It’s lively, interactive, and visually impressive. Expect a fair amount of walking, some waiting, and lots of storytelling. It’s a great way to feel immersed in the worlds of Ertugrul and Osman Gazi, especially if you love the series or Turkish culture.

To sum it up, this Ertugrul and Osman Ghazi Movie Set Tour in Istanbul offers an engaging window into the worlds of beloved Turkish series, bringing history and storytelling alive through intricate sets, live performances, and hands-on activities. It’s a good value for those wanting a full day of entertainment combined with cultural insights, especially if you’re a fan of the shows or curious about Turkish history. Just keep in mind that some sets may be closed, and the experience is quite entertainment-focused. For travelers who love stories, costumes, and interactive fun, it’s a memorable addition to your Istanbul itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: