Constantinople Small-Group Tour of Istanbul with Lunch

8 Hours

Mobile Ticket

Hotel Pickup Offered

Language Offered

Overview

Go back in time to the Byzantine times when Istanbul was Constantinople and enjoy an 8-hour small-group guided tour of monasteries and churches. On this tour, uncover the impressive history of Christian sanctuaries that peaked during the reign of the Byzantine Empire. Visit Kariye Museum, once Chora Church, and ogle its frescoes and mosaics. See mosques converted from churches such as Pammakaristos and Pantocrator. Immerse with your guide to discover the history of palatial remains plus enjoy lunch included on this tour. Numbers on this small-group tour are limited to 15 people for a more intimate experience.

8-hour tour of Istanbul's Byzantine churches and monasteries
Explore important religious buildings from the era of Constantinople
Visit Chora Church to see its magnificent Byzantine mosaics and frescoes
Stroll around the ruins of St Polyeuktos Church and Tekfur Palace
Admire the art and mosaics of the Church of the Pantocrator
Enjoy a 2-course lunch at a local restaurant
Receive personalized attention on a small-group tour limited to 15 people

Inclusions & Exclusions

Departure & Return

What To Expect

Meet your guide at your central Istanbul hotel and begin your Constantinople small-group guided tour in Istanbul. Buckle up in your air-conditioned minivan and head to the neighborhood of Sarachane located on the European side. As you cruise, travel back in time and hear Constantinople's history when it was the lively capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires.Arrive in Sarachane and take a walk through the carved remains of St Polyeuktos church. Learn how this church was built during the 6th century and was considered one of the most important Christian sanctuaries. Continue to the Church of Pantocrator and hear how this monastery church, built in the 12 century, was converted to a mosque. See its ancient cistern and gain insight into why this Byzantine landmark is so significant. Next, visit Fethiye Mosque formerly Pammakaristos Church and see its funerary chapel's stunning array of Byzantine mosaics. After leaving this 12th century church with your guide, head to Istanbul's eldest standing church, the Monastery Chapel of St John the Forerunner. Here, relax at a local eatery and savor a 2-course lunch usually consisting of soup or salad with a meat and eggplant entree.After eating, make your way to Chora Church also known as the Church of the Holy Saviour in Chora renown for its Byzantine era art. Enter with your guide and marvel at distinguished mosaics and detailed frescoes that exemplify Christ's life.Continue with a walk through the kingly Tekfur Palace (Palace of the Porphyrogenitus), home to royalty until the 15th century when the Ottoman Empire began its reign. Wander through archways, around courtyards, and admire the elegant façade. Then, listen as your guide creates an atmosphere of a place that was formerly known for houses, dungeons, and immense gardens. As your tour come to an end, hop back in your minivan and return to your hotel.

Constantinople Small-Group Tour of Istanbul with Lunch

Inclusions & Exclusions

Departure & Return

What To Expect

Additional Info

Cancellation Policy

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