Roman Byzantine Heritage of Istanbul

5.0 (7 reviews) 6–8 hours Free cancellation Private tour

out of 5

7 reviews

5.0

Roman Byzantine Heritage of Istanbul — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Roman Byzantine Heritage of Istanbul, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Istanbul, Constantinople, Byzantion… This amazing city, founded upon one of the most strategic positions in the world, was the capital of Roman and Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empires from 330 AD to 1453 AD. Even today, we can see many important Roman sites around the city. This route is all about exploring them.

How did the city change from a small Greek colony to a huge Roman imperial capital? How did the Roman city change from a pagan city to a Christian one? How did the Roman heritage survive and change during the time of the Ottomans?

By visiting various architectural sights, it is possible to trace the marks of these transformations. On this route, we will visit various locations in an attempt to understand how the city has changed over time.

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At a glance

Duration: 6–8 hours
Confirmation: Confirmed within 48 hours
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–5
Guide: English
Operated by: Unsal Koslu

Ages: Adults (18–65 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Professional Licenced Tourist Guidance Service

Not included

Not included: Lunch
Not included: Entrance Ticket to Museums
Not included: Public transportation (bus, subway, cable car, etc.): Public transportation

Itinerary

Yedikule (Castle of the Seven Towers)

one hour Admission not included

Once the 'Golden Gate' of the Romans and then the 'Seven Towers' of the Ottomans, it is now one of the city's most interesting historical sites, offering stunning panoramic views of Istanbul.
Stop 2

one hour

Istanbul's Roman-era walls were the largest and most complex urban fortifications of their time. They remain monumental and impressive to this day. We will visit one of the best-preserved examples on our route.
Chora Museum

one hour Admission not included

A real gem of Byzantine art, Chora is one of the top sights in Istanbul. Almost completely decorated with mosaics and frescos, Chora will stay in your memory for a long time after your visit.
Tekfur Sarayi

30 min Admission not included

Once the palace of Roman emperors, the interior of this building has been reconstructed and turned into a museum, but it has preserved its exterior features very well. We will examine the building from the outside, but we can also visit the inside if you prefer.
Fatih Mosque and Complex

one hour

The mosque built by Sultan Mehmed, who conquered Constantinople and had the title of Caesar of Rome added to his other titles, is among the most important mosques of Istanbul. Sultan's tomb is also located in the courtyard of this mosque. Apart from its impressive architecture and some elements that remain a mystery, we will visit one of Istanbul's must-see spots with its unusual history that connects the building to a Roman and Christian past.
Valens Aqueduct (Bozdogan Kemeri)

30 min

Once part of the longest Roman water network, the 4th century Aqueduct of Emperor Valens still impresses its visitors with its monumental appearance.
Zeyrek Mosque

one hour

Despite significant damages caused by strong earthquakes and devastating fires, this 12th Century Roman building still preserves a harmonious blend of Byzantine and Ottoman art within its walls. Another impressive panorama of the city is just one of the surprises that is ready to be explored in and around of the Zeyrek Mosque.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

Use "T1 Kabataş-Bağcılar Tram Line" and exit at "Sirkeci" station if you are staying in Galata/Pera, Taksim, Sultanahmet or Laleli areas. Use "Marmaray" and exit at "Sirkeci" underground station and follow gate number "1", if you are staying on Asian side. For help, contact with me via Whatsapp.

End point

Use "T1 Kabataş-Bağcılar Tram Line" and exit at "Sirkeci" station if you are staying in Galata/Pera, Taksim, Sultanahmet or Laleli areas. Use "Marmaray" and exit at "Sirkeci" underground station and follow gate number "1", if you are staying on Asian side. For help, contact with me via Whatsapp.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The guide will only provide “tourist guidance service” in accordance with the legal guidelines in Türkiye.