ROMA
Balat: History & Colors + Pottery and Ceramic Class
Your Tour Experience
Cultural Walking Tour
Explore the rich multicultural heritage of the Fener and Balat districts on foot with an expert guide.
Hands-On Art Class
Create your own souvenir in a 2-hour pottery and ceramic workshop with all materials provided.
Intimate Group SizeWith a maximum of 13 participants, enjoy a more personal and engaging experience.
With a maximum of 13 participants, enjoy a more personal and engaging experience.
Tour Highlights
Discover Balat & Fener through colorful streets, historic churches, and unforgettable stories!
Unleash your creativity with a 2-hour hands-on ceramic and pottery workshop at the end of the tour!
Small group experience: Limited to just 13 guests for a personal and intimate journey!
About This Experience
Join us on a captivating tour through the historic neighborhoods of Balat and Fener. Discover vibrant streets filled with colorful houses, ancient churches, and iconic landmarks like the Bulgarian St. Stephen Church and the Ecumenical Patriarchate. Uncover the rich Greek, Jewish, and Ottoman heritage that gives these districts their unique charm. After soaking in the history, unleash your creativity in a hands-on, 2-hour ceramic and pottery class at a local art studio. This intimate, small-group tour is limited to just 13 guests, ensuring a personal and unforgettable journey through Istanbul's most authentic neighborhoods.
What's Included
Not Included
Accessibility
Journey Highlights
Sveti Stefan Church
Sveti Stefan Church, also known as the Bulgarian St. Stephen Church, is a unique cast-iron church located in the Balat district of Istanbul. Built in the late 19th century, it was prefabricated in Vienna and then transported to Istanbul, where it was assembled on-site. The church features Neo-Gothic architectural elements and is one of the few surviving metal churches in the world. It serves as a significant religious and cultural landmark for the Bulgarian community in Istanbul.
St. George's Cathedral
St. George's Cathedral, located in the Balat district of Istanbul, is the principal church of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople. Serving as the spiritual center of the Eastern Orthodox Church, it has been the seat of the Patriarch since the early 17th century. The cathedral features a modest exterior but houses an ornate interior with important religious relics, including icons, patriarchal thrones, and relics of saints. It remains an active place of worship and a significant site for Orthodox Christianity.
Phanar Greek Orthodox College
It seems like you are referring to the Phanar Greek Orthodox College (Fener Rum Erkek Lisesi), often mistakenly called the "Red Church" due to its striking red brick structure. This historic school, located in the Fener district of Istanbul, was founded in 1454 and has served as one of the most prestigious Greek Orthodox educational institutions in the city. Its impressive red-brick facade, designed in the late 19th century, makes it one of the most recognizable landmarks in Fener. The school continues to function today, preserving the Greek Orthodox heritage in Istanbul.
Art Studio
In this art studio, we open our doors to art enthusiasts! We offer a unique experience with ceramics, pottery, sculpture, painting, and special workshops. Our studio welcomes art lovers of all ages, creating an inspiring space where creativity and art come together. We invite you to step into our world of art!
Guest Experiences
"Our guide Tanner, chose the perfect time to show us Balat ! Such a quaint area. Well, I think what made it better is Tanner’s extensive knowledge of the area. The tour felt more than a nice stroll with a friend. I cannot recommend Nova Roma enough. I can assure that you will not be disappointed. Thank you Tanner for such wonderful day in your city. A city that you know so well . Hope to return soon! Best regards, Miriam."
"I had the most amazing experience with my Guide Taner. I felt like I was being shown around the city by the best of friends and most knowledgeable guide. He is both Professional yet friendly warm and helpful With all that I needed. My trip could not have Been the same same without Taner. He catered to my needs and customized my eternity according up my Likes and preferences, everyone I said the trip couldn’t get any better, he surprised me with even a more fun and exciting day the next morning. He showed me All the cool trendy neighborhoods , took Me shopping at best spots and we shared the most amazing Turkish cuisine all over the city . This by far has been my favorite travel yet, I’ve traveled a lot through Europe and Middle East , but Taner has given my trip to Istanbul a special flavor. This trip will forever be unforgettable thanks to Taner . I will be coming back again and I will most definitely be booking with Taner again and will be recommending him to all my family and friends visiting Istanbul this year."
"Balat was one of the most charming and unforgettable neighborhoods we explored in Istanbul—a colorful blend of old-world architecture, cozy cafés, and quirky boutiques that gave it a vibrant, almost bohemian vibe. Walking through its narrow streets felt like stepping into a living postcard, full of warmth, history, and character. I enjoyed every moment there with my friends and family, soaking in the unique atmosphere and stopping often to admire the beautifully preserved buildings. What made it even more special was our incredible tour guide, who shared fascinating stories and hidden gems that brought the neighborhood to life. It was truly a highlight of our trip and a place I would return to again and again."
Nova Roma Travel Agency
Discover Istanbul by the water with our premium boat charters, guided tours, and authentic cultural experiences. Creating unforgettable memories since day one.
© 2025 Nova Roma Travel Agency | All Rights Reserved | Designed and Developed with 🤍 by Mad Corp 🤍
