- Golden Horn - This horn-shaped estuary divides European Istanbul. One of the best natural harbours in the world, the Byzantine and Ottoman navies and commercial shipping interests were centered here. Today, lovely parks and promenades line the shores where the setting sun dyes the water a golden colour. At Fener and Balat, neighbourhoods midway up the Golden Horn, whole streets of old wooden houses, churches, and synagogues date from Byzantine and Ottoman times. The Orthodox Patriarchy besides here at Fener. Eyup, a little further up, reflects the Ottoman style of architecture. Cemeteries sprinkled with dark cypress trees cover the hillsides. Many pilgrims come to the tomb of Eyup in the hope that their prayers will be granted. The Pierre Loti Cafe, atop the hill overlooking the shrine is a wonderful place to enjoy the tranquillity of the view. Istanbul is an international art and cultural centre.
- Private transportation
- Bottled water
- On-board WiFi
- Snacks
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Surcharges on fuel
- Parking fees
- Gratuities
Join us today as we capture the essence of Istanbul’s Byzantium. We first head to the natural seaport of the Byzantines, known as “the Golden Horn,” so-called for its horn-like form and the golden shimmer of the waves in the sunlight when seen from elevated positions. We will be touring the Patriarchate at Fener, the center of Orthodox Christianity since Constantine The Great declared Christianity the faith of the Roman Empire. We will also visit the Church of Panagia of Blachernae, a renowned and revered shrine of the Holy Virgin Mary, known for its “Hagiasma” (holy water) and “Hagion Lousma” (holy bath). We’ll take a glance at the Anemas Dungeons from outside and admire The Tekfur Palace, the lone surviving Pavillion of the Blachernae Palace. Next, we’ll stop at the stunning Church of St. Savior in Chora (Kariye Museum), originally a Byzantine monastery renowned for its extraordinary mosaics and frescoes representing scenes from the Bible. Finally, we will include the Byzantine city walls on our journey. Come along with us!
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
