Take a stroll through the fascinating Fener and Balat districts in Istanbul for a real lesson in history. See a functioning Byzantine church, a church made solely from iron and steer and much more on this full-day walking tour.
About this activity
- Free cancellation
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
- COVID-19 precautions
- Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
- Mobile ticketing
- Use your phone or print your voucher
- Duration 8 hours
- Starting time 9:00 AM
- Skip the ticket line
- Instant confirmation
- Live tour guide
- English
- Pickup included
- Hotels in Istanbul
Experience
Highlights
- Visit Fener, a district famous for being home to Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople
- Wander through the historic streets of Fener and see houses, palaces and more with real historic significance
- Take a stroll around the vibrant Jewish district of Balat
- See the imposing Bulgarian St. Stephen Church, which is made entirely of iron and steel
Full description
If you are interested in visiting a functioning Byzantine church or seeing the only church in the world constructed entirely of iron and steel, then do not miss this full-day walking tour through Fener and Balat in Istanbul.
The name Fener is derived from a Greek word 'Fanari,' meaning 'lantern' or 'lighthouse' in Turkish, and this district was made up of predominantly Romaic (Greek Orthodox) families up until the beginning of the 20th century. Today, this UNESCO-project filled site is known as the part of Istanbul where the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople is situated. On this tour you'll hear the story of Phanariotes who served as dragomans to the Ottoman government and to foreign embassies.
Following the included lunch, you will visit Balat, which is located on the southern shores of the Golden Horn. It is one of the Jewish districts where the people re-settled during the time of the Ottoman Empire.
We will take you through Balat, where you will find yourself walking down intriguing streets, full of color and life. Synagogues, Armenian churches, Romaic churches, Byzantine remnants, and Ayazmas are all part of the adventure.
Includes
- English-speaking guide
- Lunch
- Entrance fees
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Transportation
- Drinks
- Personal expenses
Not suitable for
- Wheelchair users
COVID-19 precautions
Customers must book this activity online because the ticket office is closed
Safety measures in place
- All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
- Customers must keep distance in vehicles
- The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
Traveler requirements
- Customers are required to bring and wear masks
Select participants and date
Participants
Date
Prepare for the activity
Important information
What to bring
- Passport or ID card
Not allowed
- Pets
- Luggage or large bags
Know before you go
- This tour is only available on Sundays