How to Plan Your Constantinople Tour of Istanbul Discovering the Byzantine Empire

Are you planning a trip to Istanbul and want to discover the hidden history of the city’s ancient past? Look no further than this 3-hour guided tour of the Byzantine Empire’s impact on Istanbul, also known as Constantinople.During this tour, you will step back in time almost 1700 years to discover how Istanbul’s famous religious architecture and monuments took shape during the age of Christianity. You will explore prime examples of this era, including the Holy Virgin at the Church of St Mary of Blachernae, the Walls of Constantinople, and the ruins of Blachernae Palace. The legacy created by the Byzantine Empire comes to life on this tour.Here’s how to plan your Constantinople Tour of Istanbul discovering the Byzantine Empire.

Book Your Tour

To begin, you’ll need to book your tour on this page: book the tour here. The tour includes pickup and dropoff from your hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle, as well as a professional guide to take you through the tour.

Overview of the Tour

The tour starts by exploring the ancient city of Constantinople and its significant early Christian sites. Your guide will take you to visit the Ecumenical Orthodox Patriarchate in Fener, home to the ceremonial head of the Greek Orthodox Church. It’s a stunningly beautiful location that speaks to the spiritual values of the Byzantine Empire.Next, you’ll visit the Church of St Mary of Blachernae, where you’ll see a shrine dedicated to the Holy Virgin. You’ll also have a chance to explore the ruins of ancient Blachernae Palace and see the Anemas Dungeons, a living symbol of Istanbul’s fascinating past.Finally, you’ll head to the Walls of Constantinople, an imposing structure that played a vital role in the history of Istanbul, protecting the city from invasion from outside forces.

What’s Included in the Tour

The tour includes pickup and dropoff from your Istanbul hotel, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and a professional guide to take you through the tour. The tour doesn’t include any food or drinks, so be sure to bring water and snacks if you’ll need them.

Meeting and Pickup Details

The tour includes pickup and dropoff from your Istanbul hotel. Your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby at the start of the tour.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to plan your Constantinople Tour of Istanbul, you’re ready to discover the city’s hidden past. This tour is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the history and culture of Istanbul, with a professional guide to take you through the tour and show you all the hidden treasures of the Byzantine Empire. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to explore the history of Istanbul. Book your tour today and discover the legacy of the Byzantine Empire.

Frequently Asked Questions About Istanbul

Istanbul, the city where east meets west, is a bustling metropolis full of history, culture, and beauty. As one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, it’s no surprise that there are many questions that people have about Istanbul. In this blog post, we will answer the most frequently asked questions about Istanbul to help make your trip a success.

1. What is the best time to visit Istanbul?

Istanbul has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit Istanbul is during the spring (April to May) and fall (September to October). This is when the temperatures are mild, and the crowds are smaller.

2. What is the currency used in Istanbul?

The currency used in Istanbul is the Turkish lira (TRY). It’s best to exchange your currency at banks or exchange offices. Some hotels and restaurants may also accept U.S. dollars or euros, but it’s always best to have some Turkish lira on hand.

3. What are the must-see attractions in Istanbul?

Istanbul is full of must-see attractions, but some of the top ones include:

• Hagia Sophia
• Topkapi Palace
• Blue Mosque
• Grand Bazaar
• Basilica Cistern
• Galata Tower

4. What is the best way to get around Istanbul?

The best way to get around Istanbul is by public transportation. Istanbul has an extensive transportation network that includes buses, trams, ferries, and a metro. You can purchase an Istanbul Kart, which is a rechargeable card that allows you to ride any of these modes of transportation.

5. Is Istanbul safe for tourists?

Yes, Istanbul is generally safe for tourists, but it’s always important to take precautions wherever you go. Pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in crowded areas, so it’s best to be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables close. It’s also recommended to avoid political demonstrations and protests.

6. What should I wear in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a modern city, but it’s also a conservative Muslim city. It’s important to dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques and other religious sites. Women should cover their shoulders and wear long skirts or pants, while men should avoid wearing shorts. Comfortable shoes are also recommended as there is a lot of walking to do in Istanbul.

7. What is the food like in Istanbul?

The food in Istanbul is delicious and diverse. Some of the must-try dishes include:

• Doner kebab
• Baklava
• Pide (Turkish pizza)
• Manti (Turkish dumplings)
• Meze (small dishes of appetizers)

8. What is the language spoken in Istanbul?

The official language of Istanbul is Turkish. English is also widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

9. Can I drink the tap water in Istanbul?

It’s not recommended to drink tap water in Istanbul. It’s best to drink bottled water, which is widely available in stores and restaurants.

10. What is the nightlife like in Istanbul?

Istanbul has a vibrant nightlife with many bars, clubs, and live music venues. Some of the top nightlife areas include Beyoglu, Besiktas, and Ortakoy. It’s important to note that alcohol is not sold in shops after 10 pm and is not served in some neighborhoods due to their conservative nature.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Istanbul is a beautiful and culturally rich city with many things to do and see. By answering some of the most frequently asked questions about Istanbul, we hope we’ve helped you feel more prepared for your trip. Remember to take precautions, dress modestly, and enjoy the delicious food and vibrant nightlife of Istanbul.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Istanbul

Istanbul, a city that straddles Europe and Asia, is a fascinating destination to explore. With its unique blend of East and West, Istanbul offers visitors an unrivaled cultural experience. From the historic mosques and palaces to the bustling bazaars and restaurants, there is always something to see and do in Istanbul. In this article, we’ll show you how to make the most of your time as a tourist in Istanbul.

1. Visit the Historic Mosques

Istanbul has many stunning historic mosques that are not only religious sites, but also important cultural landmarks. The most famous of these mosques include the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Süleymaniye Mosque. The Hagia Sophia was once a cathedral and later a mosque and is now a museum. It is famous for its incredible dome and beautiful mosaics. The Blue Mosque is a very impressive landmark, known for its six minarets and stunning blue tiles. The Süleymaniye Mosque, located on a hill overlooking the Golden Horn, is also worth a visit. It is considered to be one of the greatest achievements of Ottoman architecture and boasts a large central dome and impressive interior design.

2. Explore the Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Istanbul. This sprawling indoor market is one of the world’s largest covered markets with more than 4,000 shops. It is an Ottoman-era market that is filled with colorful textiles, spices, jewelry, souvenirs, and much more. The bazaar has many side streets and alleys, so it’s important to take your time and explore each section.

3. Take a Bosphorus Cruise

A Bosphorus cruise is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. You can see the historic skyline of Istanbul, along with the beautiful homes and palaces that line the Bosphorus. There are many options for cruises, and they range from short trips to full-day excursions. Regardless of the length of the trip, the Bosphorus cruise is something that shouldn’t be missed.

4. Visit the Topkapi Palace

The Topkapi Palace is another impressive landmark in Istanbul. The palace was built in the 15th century and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Ottoman history. There are many exhibits in the palace, including the Harem, which was once home to the wives and concubines of Ottoman sultans. The palace also has beautiful gardens and courtyards to explore.

5. Enjoy Turkish Cuisine

Turkish cuisine is known for its delicious flavors and diverse dishes. From kebabs and baklava to Turkish delight and Turkish coffee, there’s a dish for everyone. Some of the most popular dishes include manti (Turkish dumplings), iskender kebap (a mix of meat, tomato sauce, and yogurt), and meze (an assortment of small dishes). Be sure to try some of Istanbul’s famous street food stalls for an authentic local experience.

6. Relax in a Hammam

A hammam, or Turkish bathhouse, is a popular cultural experience in Istanbul. It’s a great way to relax and pamper yourself after a long day of sightseeing. There are many hammams in Istanbul where you can enjoy traditional services like a sauna, steam bath, and massage. The Cemberlitas Hammam and the Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Hamami are two of the most popular hammams in Istanbul.

7. Visit the Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern is a fascinating underground chamber that dates back to the 6th century. It was once used as a water filtration system for the palace and is now open to the public. Visitors can see the impressive columns and arches that support the massive chamber, as well as the famous Medusa heads that are used as pedestals.

Conclusion

Istanbul is one of the most vibrant and culturally rich cities in the world. It’s full of fascinating monuments, historic sites, and delicious food. By taking the time to visit the historic mosques, explore the Grand Bazaar, take a Bosphorus cruise, visit the Topkapi Palace, enjoy Turkish cuisine, relax in a hammam, and visit the Basilica Cistern, you can make the most of your time as a tourist in Istanbul.