Unlock Istanbul's untold stories and rich history on this exclusive National Geographic Day Tour. Beyond the iconic Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia lies a world of Byzantine wonders, the precursors to the mighty Ottoman Empire. On this tour, you will discover these hidden gems, showcasing the grandeur and innovation of the Byzantine era, setting the stage for centuries of history to come.
Your day starts at the Zeyrek Mosque, formerly the Monastery of Christ Pantokrator, a living testament to Byzantine splendour. Guided by a National Geographic-trained guide with an expertise in architecture, you'll delve into its profound significance and explore the controversies that shroud its restoration.
As the tour unfolds, visit the Valens Aqueduct, an ancient token of the Byzantines' progressive water systems and their ties to the wider Roman Empire. Learn how, in its time, the Byzantine Empire was known as the 'Eastern Roman Empire.'
Next, discover the remains of the Church of St. Polyeuctus, once the grandest church in the city, now a haunting relic of the past. At the Great Palace Mosaics Museum, prepare to be enchanted by intricate Byzantine mosaics, connecting you to the city's artistic legacy. The tour comes to an end at the remarkable Basilica Cistern, a symbol of architectural brilliance that transcended empires.
Nat Geo Day Tour: Istanbul's Hidden Byzantine Relics
Instant confirmation
Entrance fees included
Exclusive venue
Guided tour
E-Voucher- Delve into concealed history, a city steeped in the legacies of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. Beyond the famous landmarks, discover lesser-known architectural gems that shaped these formidable realms.
- Learn from a National Geographic-trained guide specializing in architecture. Gain insights into the historical and architectural significance of each site.
- Witness the transformation of the Monastery of Christ Pantokrator into the Zeyrek Mosque, a symbol of Byzantine grandeur.
- Marvel at the Valens Aqueduct, a fascinating testament to the Byzantines' advanced water systems and their connections to the wider world.
- Step into a world of Byzantine brilliance as you explore the Great Palace Mosaics Museum, a hidden treasure trove of intricate masterpieces.
- Visit the wondrous Basilica Cistern, where the echoes of the Roman Empire meet the artistry of the Ottoman Empire.
Entrance fees
-
Guided tour
Entrance fees
Hotel pick-up/drop-off
Hotel pick-up/drop-off
Kılıçali Paşa, Gümrük Muhafaza Kısım Amirliği No:5, 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
Not allowed:
- children under 7 years of age
Know in advance:
- on the bus, you will pass by the remains of the Church of St. Polyeuctus, but please note that the area is now closed off for excavation
- this tour can host ma. 20 people
What people say about this experience
At the moment there are no reviews for this experience.
You might also like
Nat Geo Day Tour: Istanbul's Finest Coffee and Confectionery
Discover Istanbul's heritage on a guided walking tour, visiting renowned gourmet instititutions to sample their delicacies and diving deep into the history of Turkish coffee and culture.
en
Nat Geo Day Tour: Fener-Balat, from Orthodox to offbeat
Visit historic Greek and Bulgarian sites in Istanbul, Ahrida Synagogue and the colorful steps, and savor Turkish local delicacies.
en
Istanbul dinner cruise with Turkish night show
Enjoy an unforgettable evening on the Bosphorus with this dinner cruise. Be fascinated by the belly dancers entertaining you throughout the night.
Topkapi Palace & Harem Fast Track Ticket and Guided Tour
Enjoy the Topkapi Palace tour with a historian guide, save queueing with a fast track ticket and learn the history of the Ottoman empire.
en
Skip the line ticket and guided tour to the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul
Discover one of the most fascinating places of Istanbul: the Basilica Cistern, the largest of several hundred cisterns hidden under the city.
en
All-in-one Istanbul tour with sunset yacht cruise
Make the most of your limited time in Istanbul with this all-in-one Istanbul tour featuring a sunset cruise on a yacht.
en
Bosphorus and Black Sea cruise with lunch
Experience Istanbul from the water on this Bosphorus cruise that will take you to the meeting point of the strait and the Black sea.
en
Bursa, Uludag Mountain, cable car guided tour from Istanbul with lunch
Go for a nature trip in Bursa. Visit a Turskish delights factory, the Green Mausoleum taste a traditional lunch and enjoy the view from the top of the Uludag.
en, ar
Istanbul Classics - Half Day Morning Tour
Get all the best information for the Istanbul Classic half day morning tour in Turkey and book your tickets, at official rates. Get informed, plan and book your Istanbul tours.
en, fr, es, de
Book your tickets to the live Rhythm of the Dance show in the heart of Istanbul with Musement. Experience the energy and fire of traditional Turkish dancing combined with modern choreography!
en
