Discover the rich history of Istanbul on a guided walk through the traditionally Armenian districts of Samatya and Kocamustafapasa. Discover Latin churches, Greek monasteries, and Muslim mosques that paint a vibrant portrait of the city’s past.
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 4 hours
- Starting time 1:30 PM
- Instant confirmation
- Live tour guide
- English
- Pickup included
- Pickup is available from centrally-located Istanbul hotels within Taksim Square, Şişli, Beşiktaş, Sultanahmet, and Fatih neighborhoods.
Experience
Highlights
- Stop at Ramazan Efendi Mosque and Complex, Sümbül Efendi Mosque and Complex, Sulu Monastery, Greek and Armenian Churches, Samatya Square
- See Greek, Armenian, and Latin churches
- Explore the Samatya and Kocamustafapasa districts of Istanbul
- Learn about Armenian history, traditions and customs in Turkey
- Discover the site of one of Istanbul's largest fish markets and festivals
- Go to the Sünbül Efendi Mosque and see the tomb of the founder of the Sunbuliyye Sufi order
- Visit the Kocamustafapaşa Camii, where the foundations go back to the 6th century
Full description
Explore Istanbul through the history of its Armenian neighborhoods on a 3-hour walking tour of Samatya and Kocamustafapasa. Site of the traditional Istanbul Fish Festival, and roughly coinciding with the location of the old city of Constantinople, Samatya’s attractions include the Surp Kevork (St. George) Church, also called the Sulu Monastery, which dates back from before the Ottoman conquest.
You will also see Greek orthodox churches, such as Hristos Analipsis and Haghios Menas, adding a colorful local atmosphere to the lively neighborhood. Visit the Ramazan Efendi Camii by the notable architect and engineer of the Ottoman era, Mimar Sinan.
Continue to Kocamustafapaşa Camii, the former Byzantine Church of St Andrew. Heavily transformed during both the Byzantine and Ottoman eras, it remains one of the few churches in Istanbul still extant, whose foundation goes back to the 6th century.
Includes
- English-speaking guide
- Transportation
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Lunch
- Beverages
- 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
- The exact time of entry to churches and mosques may vary with each visit
