This is a special tour including some of the unique places in the city but also which are difficult to visit on your own. The tour will take you to the roots of historic Istanbul with a visit to the monuments of Byzantine and Ottoman cultural heritage. As the places of visit are all located out of the touristic centers, you will also have the chance to visit the current daily local life.

The first stop is Suleymaniye Mosque was built on the order of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent and constructed by the great Ottoman architect Sinan. The construction work began in 1550 and the mosque was finished in 1557.The mosque is modeled in part on the style of a Byzantine basilica, particularly the Hagia Sophia, which was perhaps a conscious move on the part of the sultan to create a continuity and a symbolic connection with the city's past. Driving along the city walls will end at one of the oldest and most important churches in the city - The Church of Chora - representing fascinating wall paintings which tell the life of Christ in a historical order. Even though the building itself is small, the meaning was great for Byzantines as being found at the borders of the city and welcoming the visitors. Today the environment is restored and this is a good place to spend time with local artisans and wooden houses.

After the church, we will have a tea-coffee break at one of the most splendid spots of Istanbul with a beautiful view over the Golden Horn - Pierre Loti Hill. Then you will again start drive but that time along the shores of Golden Horn through the towns Fener and Balat which is the old Greek and Jewish living sites. Fener Orthodox Patriarchate is located in the area as well. 

After lunch, our next destination will be the Dolmabahce Palace the last residence for Ottoman Sultans with 365 rooms and 22 saloons. Famous for the great collection of European antiquity, furniture, and 4.5 tons chandelier. This will be our last stop after the visit we will drive back to your hotel.

Inclusions

• English Speaking Guidance
• Entrance Fees To The Dolmabahce Palace 
• Chora Church
  
• Transportation

Exclusions

• Lunch 
• Gratitude
• Entrance Fee of Harem Section at Dolmabahce Palace
  
• Personal Expenses

Additional info

• Ladies required to cover their heads during the mosque visit so it is handy/hygienic to bring your own (if you have one). Guests must be able to walk approximately 1 miles over uneven and cobblestone surfaces, inclines and 10 - 30 steps. Comfortable shoes, a hat and plenty of sunscreens are recommended as shade is limited The order of the tour itinerary may vary in order to avoid congestion. Guests should watch their step at all times in order to avoid injuries
  

Attractions

Suleymaniye Mosque

Departure description

Departure point

Directions to departure

Return details

Tour language

English only

No cancellation fee will be applied if you cancel at least 7 days in advance. Cancelling 3 to 6 days in advance of the scheduled departure will incur a 50% cancellation fee. Cancelling 2 days in advance of the scheduled departure will incur a 100% cancellation fee.