Istanbul Islamic Heritage Tour: Sacred Tombs & Eyup Sultan Mosque

Discovering Istanbul’s Islamic Heritage: Sacred Tombs & Eyup Sultan Mosque Tour Review

This Istanbul Islamic Heritage Tour promises an immersive journey into the city’s spiritual side, focusing on revered tombs, historic mosques, and the peaceful neighborhoods of Eyup Sultan. With a duration of approximately 6 to 7 hours and a price tag around $125, it’s a structured way to see some of the most sacred sites with a guide.

One thing we appreciate about this experience is its focus on spiritual landmarks, especially the Eyup Sultan Mosque, which is central to Istanbul’s Islamic history. The inclusion of traditional Turkish lunch offers a nice cultural touch, allowing for a break in the day while soaking in local flavors. However, a potential downside is that some visitors have found the organization of the tour, particularly at the palace, less than seamless, with issues like large group sizes and limited inside access.

This tour is particularly suited for travelers interested in religious sites, history, and authentic local atmosphere. If you’re seeking a comprehensive introduction to Istanbul’s Islamic relics and tombs, and you’re okay with some logistical hitches, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Focus on Sacred Tombs: The tour emphasizes visiting tombs of revered Islamic figures, offering insights into religious history.
• Historic Mosques and Sites: Including the Eyup Sultan Mosque, a major spiritual center, and ancient city walls.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides provide context, though some reviews note limitations regarding interior access.
• Local Cuisine: A traditional Turkish lunch enriches the day, providing a cultural break.
• Large Group Sizes: Some reviews mention groups over 30, which can affect the intimacy and pace of the tour.
• Pricing and Value: At $124.51, the tour offers a mix of significant sites and cultural experience, but some may find cheaper options for individual site visits.

A Deep Dive into the Istanbul Islamic Heritage Tour

This tour offers an interesting way to experience Istanbul’s spiritual landmarks beyond the typical sightseeing route. With an approximate 6 to 7-hour schedule, it typically starts at 9:30 am, with pickup included, making it convenient for travelers staying in central locations. Booking in advance, about 28 days on average, suggests it’s popular among those wanting a guided, organized experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Yeralti Camii (Underground Mosque)
Your first stop is the Yeralti Camii, a peaceful underground mosque. It’s a quiet, atmospheric space, often appreciated for its serenity. The site is complemented by visits to the tombs of influential Islamic figures such as Hz. Vehb Bin Huseyre (RA), Amr Bin As (RA), and Sufyan Bin Uyeyne (RA). This introduction sets the tone for the day, emphasizing the spiritual significance of the locations.
Review Insight: One reviewer mentions that “the guide did give us a breakdown of the palace and some history,” though they only visited the outside, highlighting the limitation in access.

Stop 2: Erikap
Next, a scenic drive takes you through Balat and Egrikapi districts, areas full of character and history. Here, you visit the tomb of Hz. Abdullah El-Hudri (RA). These neighborhoods are perfect for absorbing a real sense of old Istanbul with its winding streets and historic atmosphere.
Travel Tip: Expect a 1-hour stop, with tickets included, so bring your camera — the views and streets are picturesque.

Stop 3: Edirnekapı and City Walls
Moving into the Edirnekapi area, you’ll take a walk along old city walls and visit more tombs, including Hz. Haceti Hafir (RA), Hz. Abdulsiddik Bin Amir (RA), and others. The highlight is the tomb of Hz. Halid bin Zeyd Ebu Eyyup El Ensari (RA), a revered companion of the Prophet Muhammad.
Review Insight: Some travelers appreciated the free access to these tombs, but others noted that inside visits are sometimes restricted.

Stop 4: Eyup Sultan Mosque and Tombs
The final, and longest, stop is at the Eyup Sultan Mosque, a major religious site. Here, the group visits a series of tombs, including Hz. Muhammed El Ensari (RA) and Hz. Ebu Zer Gifari, among others.
Duration: This segment lasts around 3 hours, allowing plenty of time for reflection, photos, and absorbing the spiritual ambiance.
Review Insight: Many visitors praise the guide’s knowledge and the calm atmosphere of the mosque; however, some mentioned that large groups can make it harder to connect intimately with the site.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Admission to the sites is typically included, but the level of access varies. For example, some reviews point out that guides are not allowed to go inside certain buildings, providing only outside explanations. The tour does include a traditional Turkish lunch, which travelers seem to value as part of the cultural experience.

Transportation and Group Size

Transportation between sites is usually via coach or van, with most reviews indicating a large group size—sometimes over 30 people. This can make the experience less personal and sometimes challenging to hear guides clearly, especially when large groups are not split into smaller groups or provided with individual audio devices.

The Guide and Experience

Reviews reveal mixed feelings about guides. Many highlight guides being knowledgeable, punctual, and friendly, grateful for their explanations of the religious significance and local customs. Others mention poor communication or lack of inside access as drawbacks. For example, one reviewer said the guide gave “only a short spiel,” and another noted the guide was in a hurry, which can detract from the overall experience.

Cost and Value

At $124.51 per person, this tour offers access to several important sites, a traditional meal, and transportation. While some travelers find the price worthwhile for the convenience and guided insight, others feel that some aspects, like large groups and limited inside visits, reduce its value. For those wanting a more personalized experience or fewer crowds, exploring sites independently or with smaller tours might be preferable.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive early: The tour starts at 9:30 am, and arriving on time ensures you make the most of the day.
• Be prepared for large groups: If you prefer intimacy, this tour might not be your best option.
• Bring your camera and water: The streets and sites offer great photo opportunities, and staying hydrated is always wise.
• Dress modestly: Respect the religious sites with appropriate attire, especially at mosques.
• Consider your pace: The tour involves walking and standing at sites for extended periods, so wear comfortable shoes.
• Expect some sites to be outside-only: Manage expectations regarding inside-access limitations.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits history buffs, religious travelers, and those interested in Islamic heritage. If you enjoy guided tours with historical context, you’ll appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the chance to learn about the stories behind these tombs. It also offers a good way to see a more spiritual side of Istanbul that many travelers overlook.

However, if you’re extremely particular about inside access or prefer small, intimate groups, you might find some frustrations with the organization. Also, if you’re planning to visit individual sites independently and skip the guide, this might not be the best value.

The Sum Up

The Istanbul Islamic Heritage Tour offers a thoughtful glimpse into the city’s spiritual sites, focusing on tombs and mosques that hold religious and cultural significance. The knowledgeable guides and historic locations provide a meaningful experience for those curious about Islamic traditions and Ottoman history. The inclusion of a traditional Turkish lunch adds a tasty cultural touch, making it a well-rounded day.

That said, the tour’s large group size, some restrictions on inside visits, and logistical issues noted in reviews suggest it’s best suited for travelers who are flexible and eager to explore with a guide rather than seeking an ultra-private experience.

Overall, it provides good value for money, especially if you’re interested in the religious heritage of Istanbul, and want a structured, informative day. Just be prepared for the potential crowds and limitations, and you’ll likely find this tour enriching and memorable.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
Approximately 6 to 7 hours, starting at 9:30 am.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, transportation is provided between sites, usually by coach or van.

Are admission tickets included?
Most sites have their tickets included, but access inside some tombs or mosques may be restricted.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a traditional Turkish lunch is part of the tour.

What is the group size?
Groups can be large—up to 40 travelers—though some reviews mention groups over 30.

Can I go inside the Eyup Sultan Mosque?
Yes, the tour includes a visit to the mosque and tombs, but access inside some other sites might be limited.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Yes, many reviews praise the guides for their knowledge and friendliness, though some mention limitations in inside access.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Generally yes, but consider the walking involved and the long hours.

How do I book?
Booking is recommended about 28 days in advance, with options including pickup and mobile tickets.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, for a full refund.

Embark on this spiritual journey through Istanbul’s sacred sites, and gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s Islamic heritage, history, and culture.