Discover Istanbul’s Sacred Heritage with the Religious Sites Tour w Lunch at Eyup Sultan & More

This full-day guided tour in Istanbul offers an authentic glimpse into the city’s spiritual and historical side. Priced at $123 per person and rated 4.5, it combines visits to revered tombs, historic mosques, and ancient city walls, making it an ideal choice for those interested in Istanbul’s Islamic legacy. The tour begins with a hotel pick-up around 09:30 to 10:00 AM and lasts until approximately 5:00 PM, providing a detailed, comfortable exploration of key religious sites.

What sets this experience apart is its focus on sacred tombs of prominent Islamic scholars and companions of the Prophet, along with visits to the Eyup Sultan Mosque, a major spiritual landmark. The inclusion of a traditional Turkish lunch in the Eyup district adds a local flavor, while hotel transfers ease logistics. This tour suits travelers eager for an in-depth, respectful exploration of Istanbul’s Islamic heritage, especially those interested in religious history and architecture.

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Key Points

In-depth visits to sacred tombs of Islamic figures, including Hz. Halid bin Zeyd and Ebu Derda
Visit to Eyup Sultan Mosque and cemetery, a central spiritual site in Istanbul
Includes a traditional Turkish lunch in the Eyup district
Comfortable hotel pick-up and drop-off for convenience
Guided in English by a professional guide rated 4.5
Explores historic districts like Balat, Egrikapi, and Edirnekapi

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Starting the Day: Hotel Pick-Up and Initial Visit to the Underground Mosque

The tour begins with a hotel pick-up between 09:30 and 10:00 AM, making travel arrangements seamless. The first stop is the Yeralti Camii (Underground Mosque), a peaceful site where a guided tour introduces its significance. This early visit sets a spiritual tone and offers a quiet moment before the day’s more active stops.

After exploring the Underground Mosque, the tour continues with a visit to the sacred tombs of Islamic scholars and companions. This includes Hz. Vehb Bin Huseyre, Amr Bin As, and Sufyan Bin Uyeyne, among others. Each tomb holds importance for Islamic history, and the guide explains their stories and significance, enriching the understanding of Istanbul’s religious landscape.

Exploring Historic Districts: Balat, Egrikapi, and Edirnekapi

Following the tomb visits, the tour takes a scenic drive through Balat, Egrikapi, and Edirnekapi districts. These areas are known for their historic charm and rich cultural layers. The tomb of Hz. Abdullah El-Hudri is among the highlights here, adding depth to the religious exploration.

In Edirnekapi, visitors see the ancient City Walls, which date back centuries and offer a tangible connection to Istanbul’s medieval defenses. The drive through these neighborhoods provides a sense of the city’s layered history and architectural diversity, setting the stage for the major spiritual site ahead.

The Heart of the Tour: Eyup Sultan Mosque and Cemetery

The most iconic stop is Eyup Sultan Mosque, a revered pilgrimage site and spiritual hub. Visitors are encouraged to walk around the mosque and its historic cemetery, which is filled with tombstones of notable figures and locals alike. The serene atmosphere makes it an ideal place for prayer and reflection.

The spiritual cemetery offers an authentic experience of Turkish Islamic traditions, with time allocated for prayer and contemplation. The guide leads the group around the site, sharing stories about the mosque’s history and its importance to Istanbul’s Islamic community.

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Lunch Break in the Eyup District

After the morning’s spiritual visits, the tour includes a traditional Turkish lunch at a local restaurant in the Eyup district. The meal offers an opportunity to enjoy authentic flavors, with dishes prepared in the local style. This break not only refuels but also immerses visitors further into the neighborhood’s lively atmosphere.

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Visiting More Sacred Tombs in the Afternoon

Post-lunch, the tour continues with visits to additional important tombs, including Hz. Muhammed El Ensari, Hz. Ahmad El Ensari, Hz. Kaab, and others. These sites deepen the understanding of the figures who contributed to Istanbul’s religious history. The guide explains each tomb’s significance, making each stop both educational and respectful.

A notable highlight is the visit to the tomb of Hz. Halid bin Zeyd Ebu Eyyup El Ensari, a leading companion of Prophet Muhammad. This site attracts many visitors and holds profound spiritual meaning. The atmosphere here reinforces the tour’s focus on reverence and historical importance.

Final Stops and Optional Shopping

The tour concludes with a short shopping break where visitors can browse local shops or purchase souvenirs. This offers a relaxed end to the day before the return transfer to Istanbul hotels around 4:30 to 5:00 PM.

Logistics and Practical Details

The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, making the day hassle-free. The guided tour is conducted in English by a professional guide rated 4.5, ensuring clear explanations of the religious and historical sites. The total duration is approximately 7.5 hours, emphasizing a well-paced exploration without rushing.

The cost of $123 per person covers all visits, the guide, and the included lunch, providing good value given the depth of the experience. Children aged 02 years are able to join free of charge, while children aged 25 require a child ticket.

Accessibility and Suitability for Travelers

The tour involves walking around the Eyup Mosque and cemetery, which may involve some uneven surfaces. It is suitable for travelers comfortable with moderate walking and those interested in religious history. The timing and pacing allow for reflection at each site, making it ideal for visitors who want a meaningful, respectful experience of Istanbul’s Islamic heritage.

Comparing with Similar Tours

This experience is rated 4.5 and offers a specialized focus on religious sites and tombs that might not be as prominent in general sightseeing tours of Istanbul. It stands out for its deep exploration of Islamic figures and sites, combined with lunch and hotel transfers for convenience. Similar experiences include Bosphorus dinner cruises and visits to Hagia Sophia or Topkapi Palace, but this tour provides a more spiritual, heritage-focused perspective.

Final Thoughts on the Istanbul Religious Sites Tour w Lunch

This tour offers a comprehensive, respectful glimpse into Istanbul’s Islamic figures and sacred sites, making it a perfect choice for those interested in the city’s spiritual history. The quality of the guide, the well-chosen stops, and the included lunch make it a convenient, enriching experience. Its moderate price point and full-day format make it accessible for most visitors.

However, travelers should be prepared for moderate walking and some time spent in spiritual environments, which may not suit everyone. Overall, it’s an excellent way to understand Istanbul’s religious fabric while enjoying the comfort of guided tours and local cuisine.

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Istanbul Religious Sites Tour w Lunch Eyup Sultan & More

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pick-up included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off for convenience.

What is the price of this tour?
The cost is $123 per person.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts around 7.5 hours, from about 09:30-10:00 AM to approximately 4:30-5:00 PM.

Are children allowed to join?
Yes, children aged 02 years can participate free of charge, while children aged 25 require a child ticket.

What are some major sites visited?
Major stops include Yeralti Camii (Underground Mosque), tombs of Islamic scholars and companions, Balat, Egrikapi, Edirnekapi districts, and the Eyup Sultan Mosque and cemetery.

Does the tour include lunch?
Yes, a traditional Turkish lunch is included in the Eyup district.

What languages is the tour guided in?
The tour is guided in English only.

Can I customize or cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and the tour can be customized based on the provider’s policies.