I loved the Balat neighborhood, it is absolutely stunning. We had an amazing tour with our guide who has wide knowledge about the history of the area. Worth to experience this side of Istanbul with its local people.





Prices checked on Sep 12, 2026Things to do in Istanbul
If you want a richer, deeper, and more unique experience of the character, authenticity and traditions of this multi-civilizational city, then a guided walking tour of the Fener and Balat areas in the old city is for you. You will see churches, synagogues and mosques side by side and see impressive sights of religious co-existence dating back centuries ago. Our qualified and licenced tour guides can guide you, as part of a customised tour suited to your wants and needs, through the subtle magic of the narrow, steep and winding streets, detailing their history and present day significance whilst sharing their personal insight.
This Greek Orthodox church is hugely important to the followers of this denomination of Christianity. Its current form was constructed in 1867 but the site has housed previous buildings of Christian worship. It holds significance for being the only church in the world to celebrate Mass on Fridays. This building, protected by an outer wall, is discreet and easily missed by unguided tourists and even locals.
Gregorian Armenian Church.
The mosque of Mimar Sinan who is the most famous architect of the Ottoman period...The mosque is under construction, so we will be seeing it from the outside.
One of the oldest synagogue in Istanbul which is built by the Macedonian Jews who came from Ohri. For security reasons, the synagogue can only be visited with a special permission.
The authentic backstreets of the neighborhood... We will be observing Fener & Balat districts' vintage soul by heart.
a.k.a. Bulgarian Iron Church. Richly ornamented neo-gothic style church is famous for being made of prefabricated cast iron elements.
Moldavian Prince Dimitrie Cantemir who made great contributions to classical Turkish music in the Ottoman period was living in this house and now it's open again as a museum.
The Principal Eastern Orthodox Cathedral still in use. Fener Greek Orthodox College will be seen during the tour.
Byzantine City Walls
This tour starts when we pick you up from your hotel or the port. We can also arrange airport pickups, please contact us if you want to consider this option.
Explore the 'hip' districts: Fener & Balat lasts about 4–8 hours. The itinerary has 9 stops.
Prices start at $266 per person for this Istanbul experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. There are 6 booking options, so the final price depends on the option you choose.
Yes. Cancel at least 1 day before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are non-refundable.
Yes, pickup is offered. This tour starts when we pick you up from your hotel or the port. We can also arrange airport pickups, please contact us if you want to consider this option. Pickup points include CONTACT_SUPPLIER_LATER, LOC-6eKJ+or5y8o99Qw0C8xWyEImGbFa+5CBKbpmTZC40Eg=, LOC-6eKJ+or5y8o99Qw0C8xWyFumi+9arnlDHac1ZDI6cR0=.
The experience is available in DE, RU, PT, EN, IT, FR, ES.
It is a private experience: only your party takes part. Up to 15 travellers can book together.
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Wheelchair accessible All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
I loved the Balat neighborhood, it is absolutely stunning. We had an amazing tour with our guide who has wide knowledge about the history of the area. Worth to experience this side of Istanbul with its local people.
| Tour | Duration | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Explore the 'hip' districts: Fener & Balat | 4–8 hours | 5.0 (1) | $266 | |
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