What You Will Do
If you want a richer, deeper, and more unique experience of the character, authenticity and traditions of this multi-civilizational city, then a guided walking tour of the Fener and Balat areas in the old city is for you. You will see churches, synagogues and mosques side by side and see impressive sights of religious co-existence dating back centuries ago. Our qualified and licenced tour guides can guide you, as part of a customised tour suited to your wants and needs, through the subtle magic of the narrow, steep and winding streets, detailing their history and present day significance whilst sharing their personal insight.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Itinerary
1
Vlaherna Meryem Ana Church
30 minutes
This Greek Orthodox church is hugely important to the followers of this denomination of Christianity. Its current form was constructed in 1867 but the site has housed previous buildings of Christian worship. It holds significance for being the only church in the world to celebrate Mass on Fridays. This building, protected by an outer wall, is discreet and easily missed by unguided tourists and even locals.
2
Surp Hresdagabet Kilisesi
20 minutes
Gregorian Armenian Church.
3
Ferruh Kethuda Camii
15 minutes
The mosque of Mimar Sinan who is the most famous architect of the Ottoman period...The mosque is under construction, so we will be seeing it from the outside.
4
Ahrida Synagogue
15 minutes
One of the oldest synagogue in Istanbul which is built by the Macedonian Jews who came from Ohri. For security reasons, the synagogue can only be visited with a special permission.
5
Fener & Balat
45 minutes
The authentic backstreets of the neighborhood... We will be observing Fener & Balat districts' vintage soul by heart.
6
Bulgarian Orthodox Church
30 minutes
a.k.a. Bulgarian Iron Church. Richly ornamented neo-gothic style church is famous for being made of prefabricated cast iron elements.
7
Dimitrie Cantemir Museum Cafe
20 minutes
Moldavian Prince Dimitrie Cantemir who made great contributions to classical Turkish music in the Ottoman period was living in this house and now it's open again as a museum.
8
Fener Rum Ortodoks Patrikhanesi Kutuphanesi
30 minutes
The Principal Eastern Orthodox Cathedral still in use. Fener Greek Orthodox College will be seen during the tour.
9
Walls of Constantinople (Istanbul City Walls)
Byzantine City Walls
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