Constantinople Half-Day Tour Of Orthodox Religious Sites - Istanbul

From
USD
Per Person
Book this tour with
Created with Fabric.js 5.2.4

Tour Information

Key Details

  • Mobile Voucher Accepted
  • Hotel pickup Available
  • Free Cancellation
  • Duration: 3 Hrs 18 Mins
  • Language:
    English
  • Departure Time :
    9:00 AM Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.
  • Departure Details :
    Sultanahmet, Laleli, Sirkeci, Gulhane, Kucuk Ayasofya, Taksim, Beyoglu, Aksaray, Karakoy, Eminonu, Galata.
  • Return Details :
    Returns to original departure point
  • Cancellation Policy :
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience. Tours booked using discount coupon codes will be non refundable.

Overview

Take this exceptional morning tour to meet with Orthodox Constantinople visiting the Orthodox Patriarchate (Fener), Church of St. Mary of Blachernae, Church of St. Mary of the Mongols, Chora Church. It is the best way to get a glimpse of the religious side of Turkey with this guided tour. Enjoy free hotel pickup and drop-off and have a hassle-free experience. 

Highlights

  • All entrance fees included
  • Free hotel pickup and drop-off included
  • Informative, friendly and professional guide
  • Led by a local guide
  • Know More about this tour

    Your tour will start in the morning with a pick-up from your accommodation and a drive to the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate which is located in Fener. There you will visit the main building the church of St. George - was originally part of the Orthodox nunnery.

    One of the most valuable and ancient relics in the church is part of the pole to which Christ was bound before being flogged and crucified by Roman soldiers. In the main cathedral are relics of three female saints; Saint Euphemia the Great Martyr and St. Theophano who was the wife of Emperor Leo the Wise. The third set of relics belongs to Saint Mary Salome.

    After exploring the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate, next spot is the Church of St. Mary of the Mongols, the only Byzantine church that has never ceased conducting divine services and that did not become a mosque.

    With your guide, you will continue your day by visiting the Church of St. Mary of Blachernae which is one of the most revered Orthodox Christian churches. In the Vlaherna Church is found the Holy Virgins robe, Her omophorion (head cover) and part of Her belt that was brought from Palestine in 457.

    Then by coach you will travel to Kariye Museum (The Church of the Holy Saviour in Chora) which is famous for its rare examples of mosaic work whose thematic variety and rich detail are unmatched among Byzantine churches. The last emperor prayed in this church as the city was besieged by the Turks.

    The Chora Church was initially in the center of the monastery of St. Michael, which was probably built in the VI century. Finishing the tour, drive back to your accommodation after this enjoyable morning.

    Inclusions

    Professional guide

    Air-conditioned vehicle

    Hotel pickup and drop-off

    Entry/Admission - Greek Orthodox Patriarchate

    Entry/Admission - Kariye Museum (The Chora Church)

    Entry/Admission - Meryem Ana Rum Ortodoks Kilisesi

    Entry/Admission - Panagia Vlaherna Meryem Ana Church

    Exclusions

    Gratuities

    Additional Info

    Confirmation will be received at the time of booking

    A current valid passport is required on the day of travel

    Important notice:

    • No operations on Sundays
    • Chora Church is closed on Wednesdays
    • A minimum of 2 people per booking is required

    Traveler Reviews

    • 02-Oct-2017

      It's an excellent tour. Lots of walking involved. Churches visited were amazing. Tourist guide very professional. Churches expect a donation.

    • 22-Apr-2017

      This was an excellent and very interesting tour. Our guide for the tour was brilliant, his knowledge of the sights was unsurpassed.
      Highly recommended