Tour of the Fener & Balat Neighborhoods
Tour Details
At the designated time, we'll meet at the Fener bus stop to begin this tour of the neighborhoods of Fener and Balat. Did you know that people of many different nationalities lived together in these neighborhoods both before and after the Ottoman Empire arrived in Istanbul? Greeks, Armenians, Jews, Bulgarians, and others have witnessed the collapse of two empires, over 20 conquests, and numerous Latin invasions. Now it's time to uncover the rich history hidden within their streets!
Our first stop will be at the Orthodox Patriarchate of Constantinople. Did you know its origins track back to Hagia Sophia? This is the official site of the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, considered one of the most important figures within the Orthodox Church worldwide.
Next, we'll stop at the impressive Phanar Greek Orthodox College, a school that continues to be a symbol of the perseverance of the Greek community in Istanbul. We'll then visit the Church of Saint Mary of the Mongols, the oldest active Orthodox Church in Istanbul, and head to the famous colorful stairs of Balat. How about a picture at this ideal spot?
After, we'll visit the Palace of Dimitrie Cantemir, a renowned aristocrat of Moldavia who resided in Fener. This site reflects the neighborhood's rich multicultural history. Our next stop will be at the Panagia Paramythia Church, where we'll find the last remaining vestiges of this Orthodox Church. It's a unique opportunity to witness this site before it vanishes!
Continuing our tour, we'll walk along the charming and iconic colored houses of Balat. Every corner here is a perfect opportunity to take unforgettable pictures. Afterward, we'll wrap up our tour in the Church of Sveti Stefan, also known as the Iron Church. Did you know this church is a masterpiece created by the Bulgarian community?
Finally, after exploring the rich history and cultural diversity of these Istanbul neighborhoods, we'll conclude our three-hour tour of Fener and Balat.
More Information
Duration
3 hours.
Language
The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.
Included
English–speaking guide
Admission tickets
When to book?
You can book up until 2 hours before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.
Type of voucher
Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.
Accessibility
Only some areas are accessible. Accessible toilets. An accompanying person is required. This must be indicated in the reservation.
Sustainability
All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.
Our providers commit to:
- Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
- Reduce, reuse, recycle.
- Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
- Uphold fair employment standards.
- Foster the growth of local communities.
- Preserve the integrity of local culture.
- Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
- Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
- Operate with honesty and transparency.
- Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.
This particular activity contributes as follows:
- No single-use plastics are used.
- The show represents local culture.
- The activity helps the dissemination of local cultural heritage.
- The activity helps the conservation of biodiversity.
- The activity helps vulnerable groups.
- The activity helps to promote peace.
- The activity promotes local production.
- No printing of documentation required.
- Promotes local employment.
- Has a carbon footprint offset policy.
- Has a gender equality policy.
Provider
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Fenerwalks Tours And Experiences
Corporate name: İsmail Yunus Özdinletir
Pets
Permitted.
Frequently asked questions
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Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?
A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.
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Q - How to book?
A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.
If you have any other questions please contact us.
Free cancellation
Fener Bus Stop
