Step back in time, when the Byzantian Empire was at its golden age. Marvel at the beauty (or the vestiges of it) that was wrought by, this, one of the greatest eras of history. There are quite a number of companies that offer Byzantian tours in Istanbul, as well as Ottoman tours.
Of course, this covers the usual suspects – the Hagia Sophia, the Hippodrome and the other treasures of the Byzantine Empire.
The typical itinerary would center around the Old City, at Sultanahmet. Just remember that, because these are the most popular stops, these will usually be full of tourists like you. That said, the experience of shuttling from one era to another. But of course, the focus of your itinerary is the Byzantine era.
Here are the suggested stops:
- Hippodrome: During the height of its popularity, it served as the center of the community, with activities such as athletic contests, races (horses and chariots) and even riots. You can also view the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Column of Constantine and the famed Bronze Serpentine Column.
- Hagia Sophia: Again, this is the crowning glory of the Byzantine Empire, a reminder of how the Byzantine Empire expressed its artistry and magnificence. This was built by the Emperor Constantine and was later renovated by Emperor Justinian.
- Yerebatan Sarnici (cistern): Who thought royal plumbing would look like this? Marble columns and graceful arches make a fascinating tour of the city’s underbelly.
- Saint Savior: Albeit located in a quiet location, this is a fabulous former church ad monastery. It features mosaics that are some of the best in the Byzantine era.
- Edirnekapi (Land Walls): The city walls were built in 412 A.D. by Emperor Theodosius II’s command. He wanted excellent defensive battlements, with close to 200 towers. The walls stretch for around 6 miles. One famous gate is the Edirne Gate, which is the gate by which Byzantine emperors and even Ottoman Sultans made their grand entrances. These battlements remind one that, in the midst of the relaxed atmosphere, this city was once the most besieged city during its time.
- Balat and Fener: These neighborhoods are home to a number of basilicas that were built during the Byzantine era. There are also some townhouses and old ruins.
- Chora Church: A popular tourist spot, as there are marvelous mosaics and frescoes that are a testimony to the skill of the Byzantine artisans.
Other stops:
- Sogukcesme Sokagi
- Blue Mosque
- Grand Covered Bazaar
- Suleymaniye Mosque
- Suleymaniye Hamami
- Eyup neighborhood and Eyup Sultan mosque
- Egyptian Spice Bazaar
- Taksim Square
- Mehter Band (Military Museum)
- Balikpazari: a fascinating fish market that is not just historic, but also pretty
- Dolmabahce Palace
- Ortakoy
- Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum
