Chora Museum: Byzantine Art's Hidden Gem

Explore Chora Church Museum’s stunning Byzantine mosaics and frescoes. Discover Istanbul’s rich history in this iconic site. Plan your visit today.

Duration: 2 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Chora Museum - Also known as the Kariye Museum, Chora Church is a significant historical landmark in Istanbul. It boasts exquisite mosaics and frescoes that represent the pinnacle of Byzantine art.
    Chora Church welcomes visitors daily from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, except on Fridays when it is closed. Guests are encouraged to explore the church at their…
What's Included
  • Skip the Line Entry Ticket for the Chora Museum
  • Professional Audio Guide in English
What's Not Included
  • Tips
  • Gratuities
Additional Information

The Chora Church Museum, also referred to as Kariye Mosque, is a premier example of Byzantine art in Istanbul. Originally constructed in the 4th century and lavishly adorned in the 14th century, it is renowned for its intricate mosaics and frescoes that vividly depict Biblical narratives.
Having transitioned from a church to a mosque and now a museum, it…

Location
Chora Museum
Kariye Mahallesi, Kariye Camii Sokak, No: 18 EdirnekapI, Fatih
Cancellation Policy

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

Customer Ratings
5.0
(4 Ratings)
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Linda_s
Oct 18, 2025
Chora church museum - Definitely worth seeing. Fabulous mosaics of biblical events. It’ll take about two hours and there’s free audio. They provide Wi-Fi but bring your own headset.
Review provided by Viator
Joseluisr302
Oct 14, 2025
The frescoes - is a 4th century church that was recently remodeled with beautiful frescoes and testimonies of a time of great prosperity
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Helengx9659zo
Sep 25, 2025
Beautiful Byzantine church with glorious mosaics and frescos. - A small but beautiful former Byzantine church with well-preserved mosaics and frescos depicting not just the life of Christ but also that of Mary. It is well worth the visit away from the old town to see these magnificently decorated walls, arches and domes. An audio guide and written information enhance the experience with explanations of the scenes and the history of the church, now a mosque. We had a ticket issue which staff were extra helpful in resolving for us and, if you can time your visit for early in the day, you might enjoy this wonderful space before the tour crowds arrive.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
J4877xngabrielt
Sep 18, 2025
Not to miss in Istanbul - Amazing. Do not miss. Best mosaics and frescoes we have seen in Turkey. It is a 10 min taxi ride from the center but absolutely worth the detour.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
From $38
up to 15 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).