Jewish Heritage Tour in Istanbul

Begin with a short drive to Balat; a very ancient part of the city, where you will view the oldest existing synagogue in Istanbul called the Synagogue of Ahrida (exterior view only), which dates back to 1400. The synagogue has an impressive Baroque design and was restored in the 17th century.

The second place of interest will be to the very famous Neva Shalom Synagogue located in Sishane which you will see from outside. The name Neva Shalom stands for "Oasis of Peace". The synagogue was converted to its current situation after a renovation of the sports complex of a Jewish School in 1938 and was opened to public use as of 1951.

You will visit the Eskenazi Synagogue which is another important synagogue in Istanbul. A great synagogue and holy place in Jewish tradition. A visit to the Schneider Temple which is being used as a museum for Jewish tradition will be your next stop where is 5 minutes of walking distance to Eskenazi Synagogue.

The last visit of the tour will be Turkish Jews Museum, which aims to protect the cultural heritage of Turkish Jews and to display Jewish artifacts. With donations and contributions, local Jewish families and the Turkish Government converted the old Zulfaris Synagogue into the facility found today. The Museum is composed of three sections with the main section representing the integration of Jews with the Turkish society. In the Gallery section displays examples of the current Jewish arts. The Ethnography section consists of Jewish traditions (marriage, circumcision) and ways of life from a historical perspective up through today.

Conclude your day of touring with a short drive to the exotic Grand Bazaar. Bazaar is composed of two sections namely the covered part and the modern part. You will have chance to explore the exotic atmosphere of the covered part for a brief period of time. You will also have the opportunity to visit the open and modern section of the Grand Bazaar which offers the best artworks and reliable shopping to your disposal.

Rates
Approx Duration: 5 hour(s) 45 minute(s)
Current Price: Starting from
80 Adult (USD) for minimum 4 guests
Activity Type: Historical, Sightseeing, City Tours
Activity Level: Strenuous

Sites to Visit
Synagogue of Ahrida
Neva Shalom Synagogue
Eskenazi Synagogue
Turkish Jews Museum
Grand Bazaar

Shore Excursion Points of Distinction
* Professional English-speaking experts to guide you through your journey.
* Peace of mind in knowing that your excursions are monitored by our staff.
* A staff of experienced, excursion specialists expertly plans each tour and is dedicated to maximizing your time in each port.
* Travel with premier, licensed and insured, best available, climate controlled luxury transportation.
* In addition to our private departures, just like this tour, you may choose the Executive Collection - customized, private tours with highly personalized service.

Remarks
* The Synagogue visits are subject to the permission of the Synagogue Authorities. Respectful attire is required to visit the venues. This excursion is also subject to cancellation
   due to the religious festivals in the synagogues. The bookings for this tour will close 3 days prior to your arrival in Istanbul due to special security clearance required by the
   venues. This tour cannot be operated on Saturdays.
* Guests must be able to walk approximately 1-1.5 miles over uneven and cobblestone surfaces, inclines and 40 to 65 steps thus the guests must be cautious to watch their step
   at all times in order to avoid injuries.
* Comfortable clothing, flat walking shoes, sun hat, sun glasses and sun screen are strongly recommended.
* Please expect dense traffic conditions in Istanbul.
* The order of the sites visited may change to avoid the crowds.
* Temperatures can reach extreme highs during summer months; we recommend that you drink a lot of water and use suitable sun protection.

Note
* The program can also be completed in 2 days according to your preference.

Book this Tour
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