Tour Highlights
Walls of Constantinople, Suleymaniye Mosque, Church of St. Stephen of the Bulgars, Balat, Fener, Orthodox Patriarchate
Secret Treasures of Istanbul Tour
From: $52,00
Tour Duration: 4 Hours
Tour Time: 13:00 - 17:00
Tour Type: Group Tour
Explore Istanbul’s hidden spiritual and historical gems on this afternoon tour of Süleymaniye Mosque, Fener, Balat, ancient city walls, and churches, with a stop for traditional Turkish tea or coffee.
Service Location: Istanbul Tours
Service Provider: ITS
Available languages:
English
Service Details
Daily Afternoon Tour
Step off the beaten path and uncover Istanbul’s lesser-known marvels on this culturally rich afternoon tour. Explore sacred spaces, ancient walls, and vibrant neighborhoods where Christian, Muslim, and Jewish heritage coexist in harmony.
From majestic mosques to hidden churches, this tour offers a deep and colorful perspective on the city’s spiritual and architectural legacy.
Suleymaniye Mosque
Begin your tour with a visit to the magnificent Süleymaniye Mosque, an architectural masterpiece designed in the 16th century by Mimar Sinan, the most celebrated architect of the Ottoman Empire. Admire its grand proportions, elegant domes, and peaceful courtyards while your guide shares insights into its spiritual and historical significance.
Fener & Balat Neighborhoods
Travel along the Golden Horn to the historic districts of Fener and Balat, once home to Istanbul’s Greek Orthodox, Jewish, and Armenian communities.
Stroll through narrow cobbled streets lined with colorful Ottoman-era houses, eclectic cafés, and centuries-old places of worship. This is one of the city’s most authentic and photogenic quarters, offering a window into Istanbul’s multi-faith heritage.
Traditional Turkish Tea or Coffee Stop
Pause for a taste of tradition with a serving of Turkish tea or coffee in a local café, offering a moment to relax and absorb the atmosphere of old Istanbul.
City Walls of Constantinople
Continue to the impressive 5th-century Theodosian Walls, which once encircled the city of Constantinople for protection. Your guide will explain how these formidable defenses shaped the city’s resilience through centuries of siege and empire.
Iron Church of St. Stephen (Bulgarian Church)
View the striking Iron Church of St. Stephen, a 19th-century marvel built entirely of prefabricated cast iron shipped from Vienna. Its ornate neo-Gothic design and unique construction make it one of the most fascinating churches in Istanbul.
Greek Orthodox Landmarks (Sightseeing Stops)
• Aya Nikola Church – a centuries-old Greek Orthodox church nestled in the heart of Fener.
• Greek Orthodox Patriarchate (Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople) – the spiritual center of Eastern Orthodox Christianity.
• St. Hiresdagabet Church – another of Istanbul’s hidden Christian sanctuaries (external visit).
Each site is visited for sightseeing and interpretation from your guide (no interior visits unless available and permitted on the day).
Why Book This Service
- Explore hidden gems of Istanbul that most visitors miss.
- Visit multi-faith neighborhoods rich in Christian, Jewish, and Muslim heritage.
- See iconic yet lesser-known sites like the Iron Church and Patriarchate.
- Taste authentic Turkish tea or coffee in a local setting.
- Guided by an expert local historian or cultural guide.
- Ideal for travelers interested in Istanbul’s diverse religious and architectural history.
What's Included
• Entrance fees mentioned on the itinerary
• Professional Guidance
• Pick up and drop off service from your hotel
• Traditional Turkish Tea / Turkish Coffee Treat
• Transportation with A/C vehicles
• Donations for all religious visits
• TURSAB insurance, which covers the costs of services accepted and committed by the travel agency
Please Note
- This tour includes exterior visits to several sites unless open for interior access.
- Modest clothing is recommended for visiting places of worship.
- Comfortable walking shoes are advised; some streets are uneven or cobbled.
- Tour duration is approximately 4 hours.
- Operates in all weather conditions.
- Hotel pick-up may be available based on booking type.
Meeting Point
At Your Hotel
Cancellation Details
Booking can be cancelled up to 3 day(s) before the tour start.
28 reviews for Secret Treasures of Istanbul Tour
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Istanbul never ceases to surprise, but this tour truly showed us its most hidden and enchanting side. We didn’t visit the usual big attractions; instead, we wandered down quiet alleyways and stumbled upon peaceful courtyards, forgotten mosques, and beautiful historical buildings tucked away from the crowds. Our guide Mehmet was incredible—so knowledgeable, warm, and genuinely passionate about the city’s history.
One of my favorite parts was visiting a tiny old library hidden behind a wooden door I would’ve walked past without noticing. Mehmet explained how these places played an important role in Ottoman intellectual life. We also paused in a shaded courtyard where the only sounds were birds and the distant call to prayer. It felt like we had Istanbul all to ourselves for a little while.
The tour felt very personal and relaxed, with plenty of time to take photos, ask questions, and soak up the atmosphere. I appreciated that the guide adjusted the route a little based on what the group was most interested in.
If you’ve already seen Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque and want to go deeper into Istanbul’s hidden streets and quiet stories, this tour is an absolute must. I walked away with a whole new appreciation for this beautiful city.
Small group, great energy. Discovered places I never knew existed in the heart of Istanbul.
A relaxing walk through beautiful, less crowded places. Our guide showed us peaceful mosques and lovely courtyards.
Never thought I’d find quiet places in Istanbul’s busy streets, but this tour showed us where to look.
You really get a sense of the ‘real’ Istanbul on this tour. Highly recommend it for travelers who want more than the usual tourist spots.
Selin took us through alleyways filled with history and color. Felt like we discovered Istanbul’s secrets.
My favorite part was the little market we stumbled upon—so full of local life and color.
Found ourselves in tiny backstreets filled with life, color, and stories. Selin was a wonderful guide.
Great balance between walking and relaxing stops. Highly recommend for a calm afternoon in Istanbul.
Such a unique way to explore the hidden streets of Istanbul. Loved every stop.