Erbu really excels at this tour of the early Byzantine Empire since she has a Masters in Christian Iconography! The descriptions of the murals of the Chora Church were just breathtaking. I really loved her deep knowledge of Byzantine history; we learned so much!
Byzantine Istanbul Tour: Chora Church
Uncover ancient Byzantium beneath Istanbul’s modern streets
The Finer Details
The traces and signs of the old Byzantine Empire have been largely lost in history and urban development: a church becomes a mosque, a palace becomes a museum and a park, and sometimes the traces of the old past are hidden inside a parking lot, or a football field, or a modern hotel. Join our experienced historian guides on this 3-hour tour in the historic Fatih neighborhood, where you will learn how to peel back the surface of the complex history of Istanbul and uncover what remains of ancient Byzantium.
Route Details
The heart of the Byzantine Empire currently rests right beneath the feet of those who walk the streets of modern Istanbul. This tour takes you to the Fatih neighborhood, which is often missed by tourists but is full of history, with its narrow streets, lively markets, and charming vibe.
Led by an expert guide, you will embark on a fascinating journey through time. The tour begins at the recently reopened Chora Church, now called Kariye Mosque, where stunning 14th-century frescoes, remarkably preserved despite its conversion into a mosque, offer a glimpse into Byzantine artistry. From there, you will visit the reconstructed Tekfur Saray, once the residence of Byzantine emperors. Each stop unveils a different layer of Istanbul’s rich and complex history.
This tour provides an immersive, educational experience that will leave you with a profound appreciation for Istanbul’s rich and layered past. You'll learn to see the city through a new lens, and uncover the Byzantine Empire’s hidden and discover the hidden signs of the Byzantine Empire, giving you a better understanding of how this ancient civilization influenced what Istanbul is today.
Choose this tour if…
- If you're a history enthusiast or just curious about how cities transform over time, and want to learn more about the Byzantine Empire.
- It is your first time in Istanbul, or you are returning to the city to explore lesser-known neighborhoods.
- You’d like to visit the Chora Church/Kariye Mosque and see its preserved frescoes, which are among the best examples of Byzantine art.
Sites Visited
- Chora Church/Kariye Mosque
- Tekfur Saray
- Walls of Istanbul
- Edirnekapi Gate
- Location of the Cistern of Aetius
- Vlaherna Meryem Ana Greek Orthodox Church
Logistics
Tickets
Tickets for Chora Church (Kariye Camii) are included in the price of the tour; the guide will purchase them on-site for you. Tickets for other sites will be purchased on-site by the clients, with assistance from the guide.
Additional Trip-Planning Resources
A few things that pair well with this tour:
- Some comfy walking shoes to keep you going strong
- A camera to snap those beautiful details of Byzantine art
- An open and curious mind, ready to discover all the hidden stories along the way
- If you're looking for tips on planning your trip to Istanbul, don’t miss our Context Stories.
- If you are looking to learn more about Istanbul before a visit, check out our online lectures at Context Learning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we include Hagia Sophia in this tour?
While we totally understand the appeal, we recommend sticking to the current itinerary. This tour is all about discovering the lesser-known, yet historically rich spots in Istanbul, especially those tied to the Byzantine Empire. While you won't visit all the major monuments of Istanbul, you'll experience some of the city's most significant and hidden gems, such as the Chora Church/Kariye Mosque and the Tekfur Saray. This tour is designed to offer a unique perspective on Istanbul's history, away from the typical tourist path.
What should I wear? Is there a dress code I need to follow?
For your comfort, we suggest wearing comfortable clothing and walking shoes. Additionally, when visiting mosques, modest attire is required. Since these sites are considered holy, it’s important to cover your shoulders and knees. Dresses and shorts should be below knee level, and shoulders should be covered. We recommend packing a scarf or shawl to help cover those areas. While these rules might seem a bit strict, just remember that you're a guest in these beautiful spaces that are viewed as religious sanctuaries.
Is this tour suitable for children?
While this tour isn't officially part of our family program, we can arrange for a family-friendly guide. For a more tailored experience, families might enjoy our Topkapi Palace Tour for Kids, which is specially designed to engage and entertain younger learners.
Can we add a car service to drive us from our hotel to the start of the tour?
Yes, absolutely. You may add a car service directly at checkout, or simply send us an email, and we will be happy to arrange it for you. Please note that due to new regulations at the Port of Istanbul, we are unfortunately unable to offer pick-up services directly from the port. However, if your hotel is located within Istanbul, we will be very happy to accommodate your transfer needs and ensure a smooth start to your tour.
Can we add a car service to drive us from our hotel to the start of the tour?
Yes, absolutely. You may add a car service directly at checkout, or simply send us an email, and we will be happy to arrange it for you. Please note that due to new regulations at the Port of Istanbul, we are unfortunately unable to offer pick-up services directly from the port. However, if your hotel is located within Istanbul, we will be very happy to accommodate your transfer needs and ensure a smooth start to your tour.
Accessibility
We understand that some of our valued guests may have mobility concerns, and we want to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout your tour. If there are any accessibility concerns that your tour guide will need to be aware of, please let our team know at the time of booking.
Is this tour wheelchair-friendly?
Navigating Istanbul, especially the old town, can be extremely challenging for people with mobility issues due to the rough, uneven cobblestone streets and the near-complete lack of proper sidewalks. The terrain is tough to manage, and the steep hills only add to the difficulty. While it's technically possible for someone in a wheelchair to take this tour, with the help of a strong companion, it would be incredibly hard. There are ramps at Kariye, and an elevator at Tekfur Saray; however, reaching the roof for the view would not be possible due to the stairs.
Cancellation Policy
Book with confidence — see Context's flexible cancellation policy here.
Meet the Experts
Where You’ll Go
From iconic landmarks to tucked-away local favorites, these are the places you’ll explore and experience firsthand with your Expert.
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Chora Church (Kariye Camii)
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Fatih district
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Tekfur Saray Palace
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Walls of Istanbul
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Vlaherna Meryem Ana Church (Greek Orthodox Church)
What’s Included As Standard
Here’s a look at what your tour covers, plus anything you’ll want to consider arranging separately, so you can plan with confidence.
Included
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English-speaking expert guideTours led in English, offering you unbroken understanding throughout.
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Intentionally sized groupsA smaller group means more time for conversations and questions.
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Tickets and entrance feesAll entry tickets included (unless clearly stated otherwise).
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HeadsetsHeadsets are included on tours that need them, so every word can be heard.
Not Included
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Food and drinkUnless booking a Food & Drink tour or tasting experience, refreshments are not included.
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Transportation to and from the meeting pointUnless noted, pre- and post-tour transport isn’t included - this service can be added by request.
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GratuitiesTips aren’t included, but we encourage tipping as a way to thank your guide after your experience.
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Hotel pickup or drop-offUnless noted, travel to or from accommodation isn’t included - this service can be added by request.
Where You'll Explore
Make the Most of Your Tour
Some helpful advice for getting the most from your experience, from practical prep to small on-the-day tips.
Dos:
- Wear comfortable footwear
- Check the weather and dress appropriately
- Bring a bottle of water (no glass)
- Feel free to ask your Expert anything
Don'ts:
- Bring firearms or weapons
- Bring sharp objects (e.g. knives, swiss army knives, switchblades, hiking sticks)
- Dress inappropriately to enter religious sites or sacred monuments
Any questions? You can always
contact us.
Don’t just take our word for it
Suleyman was superb in all respects. The depth of his historical knowledge is incredible and his passion for history is infectious. I found the Chora Church visit and the walk along the Theodosian Walls to be the highlight of my trip to Istanbul. Harika ve son derece eğitici bir öğleden sonra için teşekkürler, Süleyman.
Suleyman is incredible! Spending time sitting and discussing the history and context of what we were going to see before launching into visiting the first site helped us put everything into perspective. He is an excellent guide for this tour! Wish we’d had him for the Muticulturalism tour.
Let Your Curiosity Shape Your Journey
Join passionate experts on intimate walking tours that reveal a city’s unique stories, spark conversations, and leave you seeing the world—and yourself—a little differently.
Structured, never scripted
Your interests guide your Expert, leading to stories and perspectives that matter to you.
Crafted for conversation
With 12 or fewer guests, ask questions, engage with your Expert, and fully immerse yourself.
Experts, not guides
Explore with 1,200+ Experts—from historians and architects to archaeologists and chefs.