Itinerary

Byzantine Relics Tour (Tour 1A) Half-Day Morning Walking Tour in Istanbul
Discover the timeless treasures of Byzantine Constantinople on this immersive half-day walking tour. The Byzantine Relics Tour is one of the most popular historical tours in Istanbul, ideal for travelers
who want to explore iconic landmarks such as the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Grand Bazaar with a professional guide.

Tour Overview
Tour Type: Half-Day Morning Walking Tour
Duration: Approximately 4 hours
Ending Point: Grand Bazaar (no hotel drop-off)
Entrance Fees: Not included
Operating Days: Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays

This tour is designed for history lovers, culture seekers, and first-time visitors looking for a comprehensive Istanbul sightseeing tour.

Highlights of the Byzantine Relics Tour
Hippodrome of Constantinople
Once the political and social heart of the Byzantine Empire, the Hippodrome was a grand arena where chariot races, ceremonies, and imperial celebrations took place. Today, it remains an open-air museum showcasing remarkable monuments that echo Istanbul’s ancient past:
German Fountain of Wilhelm II – A stunning Neo-Byzantine fountain gifted by the German Emperor, symbolizing diplomatic friendship.
Egyptian Obelisk – A 3,500-year-old monument from Luxor, standing as a testament to ancient engineering.
Serpentine Column – A legendary bronze column brought from Delphi, steeped in Greek mythology.
Walled Obelisk – A Byzantine-era stone monument that once glittered with bronze plates.

These iconic structures make the Hippodrome a must-see stop on any historical walking tour in Istanbul

Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)
The world-famous Blue Mosque is one of Istanbul’s most photographed landmarks. Known for its exquisite İznik tiles, elegant domes, and six soaring minarets, it represents the pinnacle of classical Ottoman architecture.

Visitors are captivated by:
Over 20,000 handmade blue tiles
A vast, light-filled prayer hall
Harmonious courtyards and graceful symmetry
The Blue Mosque is both an active place of worship and a symbol of Istanbul’s spiritual heritage.

Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque (Entrance fee not included)
A masterpiece of world architecture, Hagia Sophia has stood at the crossroads of civilizations for nearly 1,500 years. First built as a church in the Byzantine era and later transformed into a mosque, its massive dome and breathtaking mosaics continue to inspire awe.

Key highlights include:
The iconic floating dome
Byzantine mosaics and Islamic calligraphy
A unique blend of Christian and Islamic art
Hagia Sophia is an essential stop on any Istanbul cultural tour and a UNESCO-recognized treasure.

Grand Covered Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı)
The tour concludes at the legendary Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. With more than 4,000 shops, it offers an unforgettable shopping and cultural experience.

Explore stalls filled with:
Handmade Turkish carpets and kilims
Gold and silver jewelry
Hand-painted ceramics and tiles
Traditional copperware and souvenirs
More than a marketplace, the Grand Bazaar is a living symbol of Istanbul’s vibrant trade history.

Why Choose This Istanbul Walking Tour?
Expert licensed tour guides
Central historic locations
Ideal for first-time visitors
Perfect combination of history, culture, and local life

Whether you are interested in Byzantine history, Ottoman architecture, or authentic Istanbul experiences, this tour offers exceptional value.

Services Included in Rate

• Hotel pick up by air-conditioned non-smoking tour coaches
• Professional licensed guide
• Ends at the Grand Bazaar
• Service charges & local taxes

Services Not Included in Rate

• Entrance fees
• Drop off to hotel
• Meal, Beverage
• Personal Expenses
• Tips and gratuities

Additional Information

CLOSED
Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Mosque closed on Friday due to Prayer