Fener, Balat, and Golden Horn Tour｜Turkey

Discover the traditional wooden houses, Byzantine architecture, and some of the best views of Istanbul on a guided tour of the Fener, Balat, and Golden Horn neighborhoods. Take a boat ride along the Golden Horn, stroll through the narrow streets of Balat, and see the Theodosian Land Walls and Tekfur Palace in Ayvansaray.

Meet your guide and take a traditional boat ride along the Golden Horn. Take in the views of mosques, churches, and the old city walls on one side and the Galata Tower and abandoned military shipyards on the other.

Visit the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate Church, the Church of St. George, which has been active and open for service since the 1600s. See a stunning iconostasis as well as holy relics of the Church of Constantinople, including the sacred relics of two renowned Archbishops of Constantinople.

See the Phanar Greek Orthodox College, locally known as the Red School, an iconic piece of Istanbul architecture. Stroll through the narrow and colorful streets of Balat, which have a movie set feel.

See the area's traditional daily street life, women gathering for tea on their patios, kids kicking balls around the streets, and men playing cards in coffee-houses. Visit local artists’ workshops and studios and shop for original souvenirs to take back home.

Visit one of the oldest Byzantine churches, a synagogue (from outside), and a Bulgarian iron church. End your tour with a walk towards the old city walls in Ayvansaray. See the ruins of the last standing Byzantine palace in the world, Tekfur Palace.