Ancient Nicaea City Visit from Istanbul
Active
10h - 11h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
- Expertly crafted Christian-focused itinerary
the program highlights the most important sites related to the Council of Nicaea, early Christianity, and Byzantine heritage — not just the typical tourist spots.
- Small-group or private tours for a more intimate experience
We avoid crowded buses. Your guide has time to answer questions, explain the history in detail, and adapt the pace to your needs.
Available options
Ancient Nicaea City Visit from Istanbul
Pickup included
What's included
Professional English-speaking guide
Bottled water
Lunch
Air-conditioned vehicle
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
After being picked up from Istanbul hotel or meeting at the meeting point, your approximately 2-hour journey to Iznik begins by ferry.
2
The highlight of the tour.
The exact location of the First Council of Nicaea
Where the Nicene Creed was formulated
Basilica structure from the 4th–8th century
Iconoclasm-era frescoes and surviving architectural elements
Time for photos and quiet reflection
Although the building is now a mosque, its historical layout and council significance are fully visible and explained.
3
Guided walk along:
Lefke Gate (most impressive Roman gate)
Istanbul Gate
Southern defensive walls
Explanation of Nicaea’s strategic importance to Romans, Byzantines, and early Christians.
4
Arrival at İznik (Ancient Nicaea)
A short introduction to the town’s sacred history:
Capital city of the Byzantine Bithynia
One of Christianity’s most important centers
Location of the First Ecumenical Council (325 AD)
Surrounded by ancient Roman-Byzantine walls
Panoramic stop by İznik Lake.
5
Built in the 2nd century under Emperor Trajan.
15,000-seat Roman amphitheater
Used during Roman and early Byzantine periods
Understanding daily life in ancient Nicaea
6
Visit a traditional İznik ceramics atelier:
Famous blue-white Ottoman-era tiles
Demonstration of pottery-making
Optional shopping opportunity
7
Archaeological area of an early Byzantine church destroyed by earthquakes.
4th–8th century Christian architecture
Virgin Mary (Dormition) traditions
Excavation details and photo opportunities
8
Stop 8
After your tour ends, we return to your hotels after a journey that lasts approximately 1.5 or 2 hours.
What's not included
Personal expenses
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
