Istanbul: Golden Horn & Pierre Loti Hill Cable Car Day Trip Private Tour
ID: GYG419823-761240
Category:
Country: Turkey
Duration:
09:00 hours
Description
Discover the beauty of the Golden Horn on. Stop at St. George's Cathedral and admire the historic architecture before riding the cable car to Pierre Loti Hill. Walk around Fener and Balat neiborhoods.
The Golden Horn, a horn-shaped estuary, is said to be the world’s best natural harbor. Its name is rumored to have been derived from the golden hue of the water due to the reflection of the sun during sunset.
During the Byzantine period, the Golden Horn was a trading harbor as well as a popular residential area. By the time of the Ottoman period, the Golden Horn had become populated by immigrants from Spain, Armenia, Greek, etc.
In this full day trip, you’ll explore the areas by the banks of the horn and learn about the many historic sites nearby and explore the picturesque parks and promenades that have popped up in recent years.
Start with a stop at St. George’s Cathedral. This neo-classical church dates back to the 16th century when it was recognized as the seat of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople. Take a look inside the lavish interiors of the cathedral before heading to the Phanar Greek Orthodox College.
Built in the early 1800s and said to be one of the oldest educational institutions in Turkey, this historic structure will remind you of the iconic Hogwarts Castle in the famous Harry Potter franchise.
Up next, you’ll head to the districts of Fener and Balat, which are steeped in history and culture. Wander around the cobblestone streets and take in the colorful Ottoman architecture. Stop for lunch in one of the local restaurants in Balat before heading to the Bulgarian St. Stephen Church.
Also known as the Bulgarian Iron Church, this shrine’s design features prefabricated cast iron elements in the neo-Byzantine style. Marvel at the intricate details of the church before making your way to Pierre Loti Hill.
To reach the top of the hill, you’ll board a cable car and take in the stunning 360-degree views of the Golden Horn. Once you reach the hill itself, take a breather and admire the breathtaking views of the wonderful city below.
Highlights
- Explore the historic and picturesque areas by the banks of the Golden Horn
- Visit Phanar Greek Orthodox College, one of the oldest educational institutions
- Stroll around the colorful and cultural districts of Fener and Balat
- See the stunning panoramic views of the city in Pierre Loti Hill and cable car
- Marvel at the design and architecture of St. George’s Cathedral
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
If you cancel at least 24 hrs before the activity date, TripGuru will provide a full refund of the price paid at booking.
All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
You must keep social distance while in vehicles
The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
You are required to bring and wear a mask
Pick up Area (and/or Meeting Point): Hotels around the Sultanahmet, Faih or Taksim area.
Look for a guide wearing a TripGuru shirt or holding a TripGuru sign. If you are not staying within the free pick-up zones, you may select our meeting point option.
Kindly be at your meeting point/ at least 10 minutes before the stated meeting/pick up time. The tour guides will only wait a maximum of 10 minutes for you before proceeding to the next stop.
If you are headed to the meeting point, we would like to stress that heavy traffic in the mornings is expected, and can vary greatly when compared to the travel time stated in navigation apps (e.g. Google Maps, Waze, etc.). Please make sure to consider leaving with enough time to reach your destination.
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 48 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 48 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.
