Ertugrul and Osman Ghazi Movie Set Tour from Istanbul

If you’re a fan of Turkish historical dramas or just intrigued by the epic tales of Ertugrul Ghazi and Osman Ghazi, this tour promises a chance to step into the worlds that have captivated millions. While I haven’t taken this exact trip myself, I’ve gathered enough details to give you a clear picture of what to expect. Whether you’re a history buff, a series enthusiast, or someone looking for a unique experience during your Istanbul visit, this tour offers a window into the legendary past with a modern twist.

What I really appreciate about this experience are its focus on authentic film sets and the opportunity to see live performances that bring the stories to life. Plus, the inclusion of a delicious lunch and organized transportation makes it a convenient way to spend a day. On the flip side, a potential caveat is that some reviews mention souvenirs and extras can be pricey, so it’s good to set expectations about additional costs.

This tour is especially suited for those who love Turkish series, are interested in Ottoman history, or want a fun, visually engaging day out. It’s designed to give a behind-the-scenes feel and bring the stories they’ve seen on TV into a tangible, real-world experience. If that sounds like your kind of adventure, keep reading for a detailed breakdown.

Key Points

• Authentic Film Sets: You’ll get a chance to walk among the actual filming locations used for the series, giving a real sense of the show’s environment.
• Live Performances: The tour features captivating shows set against the backdrop of the movie sets, adding a theatrical flair.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: From meeting in central Istanbul to exploring castles, houses, and open filming areas, the day is packed with visual and cultural highlights.
• Practical Details: Includes lunch, transportation, and entry fees, making it a fairly straightforward day out.
• Group Size: Small groups (up to 28 travelers), which can mean more personalized attention.
• Price & Value: At around $110 per person, it offers good value considering the access to multiple sets, shows, and a structured itinerary.

What the Tour Involves

Starting Point and Early Excursions

The tour kicks off at Taksim Square, a familiar starting point for many Istanbul adventures. Meeting in front of the Ataturk Culture Center, you’ll hop into an air-conditioned vehicle that whisks you across the city. The initial part of the trip is quite scenic — crossing from Europe to the Asian side. It’s a nice touch if you’re interested in experiencing Istanbul’s unique geography early on.

Your first stops are more about getting a feel for the filming environment. The Agva Merkez area offers open spaces where many scenes are shot, giving a glimpse of the production process. It’s a quick stop, but you’ll get a sense of the scale of the sets and the effort that goes into creating these historic worlds.

The Main Attraction: Movie Sets and Live Shows

The heart of the tour lies in Kuruluş Osman filming locations and the various sets that have been constructed to bring these legends alive. You’ll spend around five hours exploring castle and house sets, which are remarkably detailed and transport you into the series’ universe. The guides tend to be quite knowledgeable, helping explain the history behind the structures and their significance in the series.

A highlight is the live performance, which lasts about 45 minutes. These scenes are set against the backdrop of the sets, with actors performing epic battles or storytelling segments. From what travelers say, these shows are quite engaging and add a layer of entertainment beyond just wandering set pieces.

Additional Highlights and Relaxation

Later, you’ll visit the Ataturk Culture Center again, where the tour concludes. This is also where you’ll say goodbye to the guide and fellow travelers, often around 19:00-19:30. Many reviews mention that the day’s pacing is comfortable, with enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package covers lunch, transportation, entrance fees, and the live shows. That’s a decent deal considering the full day of activities and access to multiple sets. However, extras like souvenirs, professional photography (starting at 15 euros), and horse riding (20 euros for 20 minutes) are optional and paid separately.

It’s worth noting that hotel transfers aren’t included, so you need to get yourself to the meeting point. The group size is limited to 28 travelers, fostering a more intimate atmosphere, which many find preferable when visiting busy filming sites.

The Experience on the Ground

Walking Through the Sets

Walking among the castle and house sets, you’ll see detailed props, replica architecture, and get a real sense of the series’ production design. The detailed sets give a tactile feel that photos simply can’t capture, making it a favorite part for series fans and history lovers alike.

Live Performance and Storytelling

The live shows are set on the film plateau, and while they are relatively short (around 15-20 minutes), they’re often praised for their energy and storytelling. Several reviews note these performances help deepen the immersion, making you feel part of the story.

Practical Considerations

As with any organized tour, memory and patience play a role. The group size being small is a plus for interaction, but be prepared for some walking and standing. The weather can influence the experience, as much of the tour involves outdoor settings.

Reviews and Feedback

Based on the reviews, the guides are described as knowledgeable and attentive, which enhances the overall experience. One reviewer specifically mentioned that they enjoyed the trip even at age 60+, appreciating the well-paced exploration.

Another reviewer appreciated the opportunity to enjoy the experience safely and smoothly, describing the tour as “fun” and “great value for money.” However, some found souvenirs and extra experiences a bit expensive, so budget accordingly if shopping or additional activities are on your mind.

Is This Tour Worth Your Time?

Considering the cost, this tour offers a well-organized, visually engaging experience. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the filming locations of some of Turkey’s most popular series, along with live performances that add a theatrical dimension. The inclusion of lunch and transportation simplifies planning, making it a practical choice for those wanting to maximize their day.

It’s particularly suitable for fans of the series, history buffs, or those curious about Turkish culture and storytelling. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it more personal, and the overall structure ensures you see the main highlights without feeling overwhelmed.

That said, if you’re expecting a deep dive into Ottoman history or a more traditional historical tour, this might not fully satisfy — it’s more about the series and film sets than pure history.

Final Thoughts

In essence, the Ertugrul and Osman Ghazi Movie Set Tour from Istanbul is a solid option if you’re looking for a fun, visually appealing, and well-organized day out. It strikes a good balance between entertainment and sightseeing, with the added bonus of live performances and detailed sets.

For series fans, this is a must-do, giving you a behind-the-scenes feel and a chance to see your favorite characters come to life. If you’re traveling with a group or enjoy interactive, themed experiences, you’ll likely find this tour adds a memorable touch to your Istanbul trip.

However, if you’re more interested in historical accuracy or cultural depth, you might want to supplement this experience with a more traditional tour or museum visit. Keep in mind that souvenirs and extras can double your expenses if you’re not careful, so budget accordingly.

This tour holds true to its promise of bringing legends to life and offers good value for what you receive. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just curious about Turkey’s popular series, it’s an experience that can capture your imagination and add a unique chapter to your journey.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
The tour provides transportation from the meeting point with an air-conditioned vehicle, but hotel transfers are not included, so you’ll need to make your way to the starting point.

What time does the tour start and end?
It begins at 10:00 am and usually wraps up around 7:00-7:30 pm, with the final meeting point meeting at Ataturk Culture Center.

Are there any extra costs I should be aware of?
Yes, souvenirs and some optional activities like photography (starting from 15 euros) and horse riding (20 euros for 20 minutes) are extra. Lunch, entrance fees, and live shows are included.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and reviews mention that even older travelers enjoyed it. However, it involves some walking and outdoor time, so be prepared for that.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, the cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is it worth the price?
Considering the access to multiple sets, live performances, and included lunch, many find it offers good value—especially if you’re a fan of the series or enjoy behind-the-scenes experiences.

Whether you’re in it for the stories, the sets, or just a fun day exploring Turkish production magic, this tour offers a unique peek into the worlds that have captured so many imaginations. Happy planning!