Kariye Museum (Kariye Müzesi) Tours and Tickets

Prepare to be awed by Istanbul’s magnificent architecture, rich history, and eclectic bazaars as you discover the unmissable highlights of the Old City on this 1-, 2-, or 3-day private tour. Marvel over the glorious Hagia Sophia, learn how the Blue Mosque earned its famous nickname. Tour Topkapi Palace to gain an insight into the lavish lifestyles of the Ottoman sultans and their harem, and browse the legendary Grand Bazaar, where you find everything from carpets to Turkish delight. Flexible daily itineraries: Day 1 - Hagia Sophia, Hippodrome Square, German Fountain, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar. Day 2 - Bosphorus Cruise by Public Ferry, Dolmabahce Palace, Taksim Square, Istiklal Street, Cicek Passage, Galata Tower (from outside), Spice Market. Day 3 - Suleymaniye Mosque, Fener and Balat Districts, St. Stephen Church (Iron Church), Pierre Lotti Panoramic Hill by Cable Car, Kadıkoy Market (or alternative sites).

Enjoy a convenient and cost-saving way to discover many of Istanbul’s most in-demand attractions when you book a 2-, 3-, 5-, or 7-day E-Pass. Upon booking, your pass provides entry to over 40 key Istanbul attractions and guided tours (some with bookings or reservations required). Choose from a range of sights, including the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, and Blue Mosque, plus experiences like a Grand Bazaar tour and Bosphorus cruise.

The Chora Church Museum, also known as Kariye Mosque, is one of Istanbul’s finest examples of Byzantine art. Built in the 4th century and richly decorated in the 14th century, it stands out for its detailed mosaics and frescoes that tell Biblical stories in vivid color and expression. Once a church, later a mosque, and now a museum, it reflects the deep cultural and religious layers of Istanbul. Visitors can explore with an audio guide, enjoy the calm atmosphere, and take their time to admire these beautifully preserved artworks that survived through centuries, offering a true glimpse into the city’s glorious past and timeless beauty. Please note that Chora Museum is closed to visitors on Fridays. An audio guide is included and available in 25 languages: English, German, Russian, Persian, Arabic, French, Italian, Chinese, Dutch, Spanish, Hindi, Romanian, Ukrainian, Korean, Turkish, Bulgarian, Polish, Swedish, Japanese, Indonesian, Greek, Hungarian, Portuguese, Urdu, and Croatian.

We will drive you by the Old City Walls of Constantinople while our guide will be giving you all historical information behind of these walls. The Istanbul city walls has eyewitness many Sieges, Raids, Events. You will stop by 2/3 most important historical main attractions located near by city walls. First one is Seven Dungeons or well known name Yedikule Fortress. Second one is Chora Church with beautiful Byzantine Mosaics. And the third one is the last palace of Byzantine Emperors Tekfur Palace, and last one is hidden Nakkaş Cistern. A secret landmark in the center of Istanbul. This tour is operated by a professional licensed tour guide whom have certificate from Republic of Türkiye Minister of Culture and Tourism. -Private Guide Service -Private Luxary car with driver -Pick up from your hotel -Drop off back your hotel -Wifi on the board

Explore the colorful and historic streets of Balat with a local expert guide Visit the magnificent Chora Museum and admire world-famous Byzantine mosaics Discover the hidden history of Tekfur Palace, the last Byzantine palace in Istanbul Enjoy a 3-hour walking tour through authentic neighborhoods beyond the tourist crowds All entrance tickets included for a seamless experience Perfect for culture lovers, photographers, and history enthusiasts See a different side of Istanbul full of local charm and rich heritage Small-group atmosphere with personal guiding experience

Discover Istanbul’s hidden Byzantine treasures on this 3–3.5 hour walking tour. Begin at Chora Museum, renowned for its stunning Byzantine mosaics and frescoes that bring the history of Constantinople to life. Continue to Tekfur Palace, the last surviving Byzantine imperial palace, and learn about the final centuries of the Eastern Roman Empire. Visit the historic Ayazma Church, famous for its sacred spring and religious significance. Walk through Balat’s colorful streets, lined with charming Ottoman houses and reflecting the area’s rich Jewish, Greek, and Armenian heritage. Stop at the unique Bulgarian Iron Church, built entirely from prefabricated cast iron shipped from Vienna in the 19th century. The tour concludes at the iconic Greek Orthodox College, known as the Red School, one of Istanbul’s most impressive landmarks overlooking the Golden Horn.

Discover a different side of Istanbul on this private guided walking tour that combines Byzantine art, colorful streets, and local neighborhood life. Starting at Chora Museum ( Kariye Mosque or Camii ), you will admire remarkable mosaics and frescoes while gaining a deeper understanding of the city’s Byzantine past. You will then continue through the historic streets of Balat, where colorful houses, small cafés, boutique shops, and everyday street life reveal a more authentic side of Istanbul. Your tour ends at the Ecumenical Patriarchate and St. George Church, one of the city’s most important spiritual and historical landmarks, where your guide will help you understand its cultural significance and lasting place in Istanbul’s story.

We will take you to non-touristy places and you will see the places where local people live and see the magnificent structures in old peninsula of istanbul. On this tour, you will see what a cosmopolitan city Istanbul is and how people with very different lifestyles live. If you want to get to know a city, its culture, lifestyle and people, join the Hidden Treasure's of Istanbul morning tour and see the culture and magnificent religious buildings of this city and have the chance to learn its history.

Istanbul, Constantinople, Byzantion… This amazing city, founded upon one of the most strategic positions in the world, was the capital of Roman and Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empires from 330 AD to 1453 AD. Even today, we can see many important Roman sites around the city. This route is all about exploring them. How did the city change from a small Greek colony to a huge Roman imperial capital? How did the Roman city change from a pagan city to a Christian one? How did the Roman heritage survive and change during the time of the Ottomans? By visiting various architectural sights, it is possible to trace the marks of these transformations. On this route, we will visit various locations in an attempt to understand how the city has changed over time.

Realize the true impact of the Byzantine Empire on Turkey during this 3-hour guided history of Constantinople tour in Istanbul. Step back in time almost 1700 years and discover how Istanbul’s famous religious architecture and monuments took shape during this age of Christianity. Explore prime examples such as the Holy Virgin at the Church of St Mary of Blachernae, the Walls of Constantinople, and the ruins of Blachernae Palace. The legacy created by the Byzantine empire is uncovered on this tour.

Enjoy a full-day Istanbul tour that takes in important sites around the Eyüp District, Pierre Loti Hill, the Golden Horn and more. See the Eyüp Sultan Mosque, the Chora Church (Kariye Museum), the Ecumencial Orthodox Patriarchate (aka Church of St George) and Suleymaniye Mosque as your informative guide shares the history of these Byzantine and Ottoman era monuments. Take in views of the Golden Horn from Pierre Loti Hill, and walk through the historic Fener and Balat districts, before ending the day at the Egyptian Spice Bazaar.

Begin your immersive voyage through Istanbul's rich tapestry of history and culture with a meander through the vibrant streets of Balat District, the city's historic Jewish quarter. Marvel at the district's diverse architecture and bohemian ambiance, wandering through narrow alleys adorned with captivating street art and antique emporiums. Cross the Bosphorus to the Asian shore, where Beylerbeyi Palace awaits, an opulent Ottoman summer retreat. Admire its lavish interiors, verdant gardens, and sweeping views of the strait, while delving into its storied past as a haven for Ottoman sultans. Next, immerse yourself in Istanbul's archaeological legacy at the Istanbul Archaeology Museums, housing a vast array of artifacts spanning millennia. Explore exhibits chronicling the civilizations of ancient Greece, Rome, and the Ottomans, each contributing to the city's rich cultural tapestry. Conclude your journey at Dolmabahçe Palace, a masterpiece of Ottoman and European architectural fusion.

I joined a 5-hour Istanbul tour combining a walking tour and a Bosphorus yacht cruise. First, we explored Balat and the Kariye Museum with a live guide. Walking through Balat’s colorful streets, I saw historic churches and synagogues, and at Kariye, I admired the Byzantine mosaics and frescoes. Next, we enjoyed a yacht tour along the Bosphorus, seeing Dolmabahçe Palace, Çırağan Palace, the Rumeli and Anadolu Hisarı fortresses, and the elegant mansions of Bebek and Beylerbeyi. The views from the sea offered a peaceful and scenic perspective of Istanbul’s skyline. In just 5 hours, I experienced historic neighborhoods on foot and the stunning Bosphorus by yacht, making it an unforgettable tour.

Discover the best of Istanbul on a guided tour. Explore the opulent Topkapi Palace, the iconic Hagia Sophia, and the stunning Blue Mosque. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar and take a leisurely cruise along the Bosphorus Strait.

Discover the prominent and lesser known monuments, markets, and culinary creations of Istanbul on a private tour. In addition to the famous Basilica Cistern and Suleymaniye Mosque, the well-rounded itinerary takes you to the colorful neighborhoods of Fener and Balat. Enjoy traditional Ottoman dishes at a traditional restaurant near the often overlooked Chora Church. After the tour, relax in complimentary hotel drop-off.

See the real part and all colors of Istanbul. Every single corner of the city is hiding a secret, hiding a story. Come to see all history of the city. By a private tour you can customize your trip as you wish. Old city, City Walls, local places. City walls of the Great Byzantion

Cover top sights of Istanbul during this customizable private tour. Choose between full-day or multi-day guided itineraries, navigating the city by foot, ferry, subway, and tram. Possible highlights include Ottoman-era palaces like Topkapi and Dolmabahce (admission tickets purchased separately), landmarks like Galata Tower, the Blue Mosque, or the Hagia Sophia, or a visit to the Asian side of the city.

Go back in time to the Byzantine times when Istanbul was Constantinople and enjoy an 8-hour small-group guided tour of monasteries and churches. On this tour, uncover the impressive history of Christian sanctuaries that peaked during the reign of the Byzantine Empire. Visit Kariye Museum, once Chora Church, and ogle its frescoes and mosaics. See mosques converted from churches such as Pammakaristos and Pantocrator. Immerse with your guide to discover the history of palatial remains plus enjoy lunch included on this tour. Numbers on this small-group tour for a more intimate experience.

Feel the spirit of the Byzantine Empire that lives on in Istanbul on this private half-day tour that’s ideal for history enthusiasts. Visit the Golden Horn and the Patriarchate at Fener, which has long been the seat of Orthodox Christianity. See the Church of Panagia of Blachernae, famed for its holy water and sacred bath, as well as the Anemas Dungeons, Tekfur Palace, Blachernae Palace, and much more.

Avoid the stress of coordinating long-distance travel and logistics across multiple regions and experience Turkey on a fully organized 12-day private journey. Instead of managing transfers, routes, and arrivals yourself, you travel comfortably with a private guide who keeps each stage connected and effortless. It’s a smooth way to explore historic cities and cultural highlights while starting and ending each day without planning pressure.

Istanbul Revealed: Historic Pathways & Bosphorus Serenity From Ancient Walls to Bosphorus Breezes Step into the heart of Istanbul with an unforgettable journey that weaves together the city's ancient past and scenic beauty. This exclusive tour invites you to explore Istanbul's legendary landmarks, beginning with the majestic Old City Walls and the breathtaking artistry of the Kariye Museum. Wander through the vibrant streets of the Fener and Balat districts, where colorful architecture and cultural gems await. Then, experience the magic of the Bosphorus on a luxurious yacht cruise, drifting along the strait's tranquil waters with a stopover in Kanlica, a charming village known for its unique flavors. This is more than a tour-it's an immersive voyage into the essence of Istanbul, where every stop reveals a new story and every view inspires wonder.

This is an 8 days biblical package combined with Istanbul, Alexandria Troas, Troy, Assos, and Seven Churches of Revelation. Walk on the 1st century roman road where Paul actually walked on his missionary journey. Discover the meanings of the letters in revelation by observing the actual places. Find out Ancient Christian Traditions of early congregations from your Bible Oriented Guide. Visit the treasures of Istanbul and learn history about Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. Enjoy typical Turkish food in local restaurants. Experience shopping with locals in Grand Bazaar. Luxury transportation, bible-oriented guide, 4* accommodation provided.

Immerse yourself in the wonders of Byzantine art and civilization on a private Istanbul tour that focuses on the ancient Byzantine Empire. Visit the Church of St Saviour in Chora, Hagia Sophia, the Basilica Cistern and other impressive sites — all built during the 4th to 15th centuries when Istanbul was Constantinople, the capital of the Byzantine world. Admire mosaics and frescoes that depict the practice of early Christianity and learn about Byzantine rule on this fascinating full-day tour with your own expert guide.