Istanbul Full-Day Private Christian (Byzantium) Tour

If you’re interested in Istanbul’s Christian and Byzantine past, this full-day private tour offers a fascinating way to see some of the city’s most iconic religious sites. Designed to shed light on the Christian legacy in Istanbul, it’s perfect for history lovers and those curious about the city’s layered past.

We particularly appreciate how this tour focuses on relatively lesser-visited sites like the Church of St. Saviour in Chora and the Fener Orthodox Patriarchate, giving you insight into the city’s deep religious roots. The chance to explore Hagia Sophia’s museum and the Basilica Cistern makes for a comprehensive experience packed into a single day.

However, one thing to keep in mind is the potential for last-minute changes or site closures, especially since the Chora Church is currently closed for renovation until the end of 2024. This can impact the overall flow of the tour, so flexibility is key.

This tour is best suited for those with a keen interest in Byzantine art, Christian relics, and Istanbul’s religious history, as well as travelers who appreciate guided experiences that offer in-depth context. It’s not ideal if you’re looking for a casual overview or if accessibility is a concern.

Key Points

• Focused on Byzantine and Christian sites in Istanbul, offering a different perspective on the city’s history.
• Includes visits to some of Istanbul’s most significant religious landmarks like the Church of St. Saviour in Chora, Fener Patriarchate, and Hagia Sophia.
• Guided by knowledgeable guides who enhance understanding through expert commentary.
• Transport is via air-conditioned coach, making the day comfortable despite the busy itinerary.
• The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with a flexible starting time depending on availability.
• Price point of $397 per person offers a detailed, privately guided experience, though it’s worth considering whether the sites and commentary match this value.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Highlights

This tour is designed for travelers eager to explore Istanbul through a Byzantine lens, emphasizing its Christian heritage. It begins with a pickup from your hotel in the European side of Istanbul—specifically from central locations like Sultanahmet, Taksim, or nearby districts—making it quite convenient if you’re staying in these popular areas.

The Church of St. Saviour in Chora (Kariye)

The highlight for many will be the Church of St. Saviour in Chora, renowned for its spectacular mosaics and frescoes. Historically, this church served as an important religious site dating back to Justinian’s reign and was a court chapel during the Byzantine era. The name “Chora” itself means “outside the city,” referring to its original location outside the ancient city walls.

While the church is currently closed for renovation until December 2024, the tour guides typically provide external views and explanations. This site’s mosaics are considered some of the finest examples of Byzantine art, and even from outside, you get a sense of its artistic significance.

The Fener Orthodox Patriarchate

Next, you’ll visit the Fener Orthodox Patriarchate, the seat of Orthodox Christianity in Istanbul. This site has been a religious center since Constantine the Great declared Christianity the empire’s religion. It’s a meaningful visit for understanding how Christianity persisted and evolved through the centuries in a city that’s also known for its Islamic and Ottoman history.

Hagia Sophia Museum (Not Including Entrance Ticket)

Your visit continues to Hagia Sophia, arguably Istanbul’s most famous monument. The building was the world’s largest church for centuries and is an architectural marvel, combining grandeur with meticulous Byzantine craftsmanship. You’ll see the spectacular dome, mosaics, and historical artifacts, although note that the entrance fee isn’t included, so you’ll need to buy a ticket separately if you wish to go inside. From the outside, the structure alone is worth admiring.

More Great Tours Nearby

Basilica Cistern

The tour concludes with a visit to the Basilica Cistern, an underground water reservoir built during Justinian’s reign. Its dimly lit, atmospheric environment makes it a memorable stop, especially the famous Medusa head sculptures. It’s a glimpse into the engineering ingenuity of the Byzantines and adds a mystical element to your day.

Transportation and Logistics

Traveling via an air-conditioned coach and private transfer means you’ll avoid the hassle of navigating public transport or crowded tours. This setup is especially helpful when visiting sites that are spread out or require some walking between them. The tour’s duration, approximately 8 hours, is well-paced for covering each location without feeling rushed.

The group is private, which offers flexibility to ask questions or adjust timing slightly, and the guide’s expertise is often praised. Several reviewers have mentioned that the guides are knowledgeable, significantly enhancing the experience. One reviewer highlighted a “very good guide,” while another was disappointed because the guide seemed unprepared, so your experience might depend on the guide assigned.

Considerations

One possible downside is site closures or schedule changes. For example, the Chora Church is currently closed for renovation, and your guide might suggest alternative nearby sites. It’s good to be prepared for a flexible itinerary and to confirm in advance, especially regarding the Chora Church’s status.

Another point to note is the cost—$397 per person. While this includes hotel pickup and some entrance fees, you should factor in the cost of tickets for Hagia Sophia and perhaps other optional expenses. The value depends on how much you enjoy guided tours and specific Byzantine sites.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re serious about Byzantine art, medieval church architecture, or Christian relics, this tour is a treasure. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts who want a detailed, guided exploration without having to research each site individually.

It’s also suited for travelers comfortable with a full day of sightseeing, walking, and a bit of waiting in lines if you choose to go inside the major sites (not included in the tour price). The private nature of the tour means you can ask questions and get personalized attention.

However, if your primary interest is Istanbul’s Ottoman or modern history, or if you prefer a very relaxed, casual visit, there might be other tours more aligned with your style.

Final Thoughts

This Full-Day Private Christian (Byzantium) Tour offers a comprehensive journey into Istanbul’s Christian and Byzantine past, with expert guides and a comfortable transportation setup. The main attractions—Chora Church, Fener Patriarchate, Hagia Sophia, and Basilica Cistern—are all impressive, each telling a different part of the city’s layered religious history.

Despite some potential hiccups like site closures or guide variability, many travelers find that the depth of knowledge from the guides makes the experience worth the price. It’s especially good for those who want a curated, insightful look at Istanbul’s Christian heritage, beyond the typical tourist highlights.

If you’re passionate about Byzantine art, religious history, or simply want a meaningful, guided exploration of Istanbul’s Christian sites, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. Just remember to stay flexible, prepare for some ticket expenses, and confirm site statuses before you go.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
This tour is more suited to adults or older children interested in history and art. The sites involve some walking and standing, and the focus is on detailed historical explanation, which might not hold very young children’s attention.

Are the entrance fees included?
Only the entrance fees specified in the itinerary are included. For example, tickets for Hagia Sophia are not included, so you should plan for additional costs if you want to go inside.

What should I bring on this tour?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a camera. An umbrella might be handy if you’re visiting outside or during unpredictable weather.

Can I customize or change the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you might have some flexibility to ask the guide for minor adjustments. However, major changes depend on availability and schedule.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
It’s wheelchair accessible, but non-folding wheelchairs aren’t permitted, and the tour isn’t suitable for travelers with extensive mobility needs.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which provides some peace of mind if your plans change unexpectedly.

In essence, if you’re looking for an insightful, guided exploration of Istanbul’s Byzantine Christian sites, this tour offers a rich and detailed experience. Just keep in mind the possibility of site closures and the need for some extra ticket purchases—planning ahead will ensure you get the most out of it.

You can check availability for your dates here: