Byzantine & Ottoman Relics of Istanbul Full Day Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Istanbul and eager to soak up the city’s layered history, the Byzantine & Ottoman Relics of Istanbul Full Day Tour might catch your eye. Priced at $199 per person and lasting around 7 hours, it promises a comprehensive look at some of the most iconic sights in this vibrant metropolis. It’s a popular choice for those wanting a guided experience that hits all the major highlights, but like any tour, it’s not without its quirks.

What we like about this tour is how it packs in some of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks—Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Covered Bazaar—into one day, making it a practical option for travelers who want to maximize their time. The fact that transportation, entrance fees, and lunch are included can make things easier for many visitors, especially if you’re trying to keep things simple. Plus, the tour offers a free pick-up service from centrally located hotels, which cuts down on logistical stress.

However, there are a few things worth considering before booking. The Grand Bazaar’s closure on Sundays means the itinerary can shift, and some travelers have mentioned disappointment if they expected to visit this bustling market on a Sunday. Also, the Topkapi Palace—a highlight for many—may not be available if it’s closed on certain days, which can be frustrating if you’re not aware beforehand. This tour suits first-timers or those eager for a structured overview of Istanbul’s rich past, but it might not satisfy everyone looking for a more flexible or in-depth experience.

If you’re comfortable with group tours, are interested in history and architecture, and want a well-rounded day of sightseeing, this experience could be a good fit. Just keep in mind that it’s a fairly packed schedule that might feel rushed at times, especially if you love wandering and exploring at your own pace.

Key Points

• Includes major sites like Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Covered Bazaar
• Transport, entrance fees, and lunch are covered, making it a convenient all-in-one package
• The tour is approximately 7 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability
• The itinerary can change if sites like the Bazaar are closed (e.g., Sundays), so check in advance
• Tour groups are guided in English, German, or Spanish, which helps with understanding the history behind each site
• Not included: hotel drop-off, so you’ll need to plan your departure accordingly

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

Starting with the Historic Core of Istanbul

This tour kicks off with a pickup from centrally located hotels, which is a welcome convenience. You’ll hop into an air-conditioned vehicle, ready for a day of exploring the city’s highlights. First up is the Hagia Sophia, a marvel of architecture and history. Built in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian, it’s a building that’s seen numerous transformations—church, mosque, museum—and always remains a breathtaking testament to Byzantine ingenuity. Visitors often marvel at the massive dome and the stunning mosaics, which still whisper stories of its religious past.

Right across from Hagia Sophia is the Blue Mosque, known for its striking blue tiles and six minarets. But keep in mind, on Fridays, the mosque is closed for visitors during noon prayers, and you’ll only be able to see the outside. That’s a common logistical note that travelers should keep in mind, especially if religious prayer times or closures aren’t clear beforehand.

The Hippodrome and Its Historical Significance

Next, you’ll stroll to the Hippodrome, once the racing and political hub of Byzantine Constantinople. Today, it’s an open-air site with notable monuments like the Serpentine Column and the Obelisk of Theodosius. Walking here, you get a palpable sense of the city’s ancient grandeur and the activities that once took place here—chariot races, political rallies, and more.

The Grand Covered Bazaar: A Shopper’s Paradise

After soaking in the early history, the tour makes a stop at the Grand Covered Bazaar—arguably Istanbul’s most famous market. With nearly 4,000 shops, it’s a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells. You can browse everything from jewelry and antiques to carpets and leather goods. The bazaar is a lively place, perfect for getting a taste of local commerce. A highlight is the demonstration of traditional Turkish carpet-making, giving you a glimpse into centuries-old craft traditions.

One point to note from reviews: the Bazaar is closed on Sundays, so if you’re visiting on that day, the guide will instead take you to a traditional Turkish shop. This means the experience might slightly differ based on the day of your visit.

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Lunch Break and Cultural Reflection

Midday, you’ll enjoy included lunch, giving you a chance to rest and refuel. The choice of cuisine is not specified, but typically, tours in Istanbul include local dishes—think kebabs, mezes, or other Turkish specialties. It’s a good opportunity to experience authentic flavors and ask your guide for restaurant suggestions if you want to explore further on your own.

Topkapi Palace: The Ottoman Sultan’s Residence

Post-lunch, you’ll head to Topkapi Palace, the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans for centuries. This sprawling complex offers a peek into imperial life, showcasing Islamic relics, including sacred artifacts believed to be of the Prophet Muhammad, as well as stunning Chinese porcelain, weapons, and ceremonial robes. The palace’s courtyards and harem sections are particularly captivating for history buffs.

However, some travelers have noted that if Topkapi Palace is closed on the day of your visit—say, it’s Tuesday or due to special closures—you might be disappointed. One review mentioned that they paid for the entrance but couldn’t visit because it was closed the day before. It’s always wise to double-check the schedule when booking.

Visiting Hagia Irene and Wrapping Up

Finally, the tour includes a visit to Hagia Irene, a lesser-known but fascinating church that predates Hagia Sophia. Unlike its famous neighbor, Hagia Irene often feels more intimate and less crowded, providing a quiet space to appreciate Byzantine architecture.

The day ends with a return to your hotel, although hotel drop-off isn’t included, so you’ll need to plan your departure accordingly.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Booking and Availability: The tour offers flexibility with the reserve now, pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Make sure to call the local provider after booking to confirm your exact pickup time and check shuttle service availability.
• Timing: Since the tour lasts about 7 hours, start times vary, and it’s best to arrive early or be prepared for a full day.
• Comfort: Wear comfortable shoes—lots of walking is involved—and bring your passport or ID.
• Photo Opportunities: Many spots, especially Hagia Sophia and Topkapi, are perfect for photos, but be mindful of photography restrictions inside some sites.
• Group Size: Guided in multiple languages, the group size can influence how much time you spend exploring each site—smaller groups usually mean more personalized attention.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a rundown of Istanbul’s history without the hassle of organizing multiple tickets or transportation. It’s suited for first-time visitors, history enthusiasts, and those who prefer guided tours that cover the main highlights in a single day.

If you’re interested in architecture, religion, and culture, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. But if you prefer wandering at your own pace or are concerned about tight schedules, you might find this tour a little rushed.

Final Words: Is It Worth It?

Considering the price, the inclusion of transportation, entrance fees, and lunch, this tour offers decent value—especially if you want a structured, informative day. The sites included are some of the most significant in Istanbul, and a knowledgeable guide can enrich your understanding of their stories.

However, be prepared for a sometimes hurried pace, and double-check the schedule for site closures. It’s a solid choice if you’re new to Istanbul or want a broad overview, but if you’re a seasoned traveler or looking for a more relaxed experience, you might prefer to explore some sites on your own or look for more flexible options.

In summary, this tour can give you a meaningful glimpse into Istanbul’s layered past, but it’s best suited for those who appreciate guided insights and a full schedule.

FAQ

Does the tour include hotel drop-off? No, hotel drop-off is not included, so you’ll need to make your own arrangements at the end of the day.

What languages are available for the guided tour? The tour is guided in English, German, and Spanish, allowing travelers to choose their preferred language.

Can I visit the Grand Bazaar on a Sunday? No, the Grand Covered Bazaar is closed on Sundays. On that day, the guide will take you to a different shop selling authentic Turkish goods.

Will I see the inside of the Blue Mosque? On Fridays, due to noon prayers, visitors will only see the outside of the Blue Mosque until 1 pm. On other days, the inside is usually accessible.

What should I bring? Bring your passport or ID and wear comfortable shoes, as there’s quite a bit of walking involved.

Is there free time at the bazaar? Yes, travelers are given free time to explore the bazaar independently, but note that it’s not guided.

What if Topkapi Palace is closed when I visit? If it’s closed, you won’t be able to visit it, and the itinerary will be adjusted accordingly. Always check the schedule in advance.

If you’re looking for a structured, all-in-one introduction to Istanbul’s highlights with a knowledgeable guide, this tour is worth considering. Just keep in mind its schedule and site closure considerations, and you’ll likely walk away with a great sense of the city’s deep history.

You can check availability for your dates here: