Private Istanbul Jewish Heritage Tour
Overview
Private Istanbul Jewish Heritage Tour
Discover the fascinating Jewish heritage of Istanbul on a private tour.
Begin at the Museum of Turkish Jews, inside Neve Shalom Synagogue, and learn about 2,400 years of Jewish history in Turkey. Then visit Neve Shalom itself, along with the Ashkenazi and Ahrida synagogues, each an important part of Istanbul's story.
In Balat, where Sephardic Jews first settled after their expulsion from Spain in 1492, and at the famous Camondo Stairs, built by a leading Jewish Ottoman family, the past comes to life.
It is an ideal tour for travellers who enjoy cultural experiences and want to see the synagogues of Istanbul, with a thoughtful and meaningful itinerary.
Tour Info
Itinerary
Private Istanbul Jewish Heritage Tour
Your guide meets you in your hotel lobby at 9:30 am.
The day begins at the Quincentennial Foundation Museum of Turkish Jews. The museum first opened in the Zulfaris Synagogue in 2001 and moved to Neve Shalom Synagogue in 2015. Across three floors it presents 2,400 years of the history and culture of Turkish Jews.
You then visit Neve Shalom Synagogue, which has hosted religious ceremonies such as circumcisions (brit milah), bar mitzvahs and weddings since 1951.
Next is the Ashkenazi Synagogue. The first synagogue on this site was a wooden building from 1866, and the present building dates from the early 1900s. Nearby, your guide tells you the story of the Camondo Stairs, built by Abraham Salomon Camondo, an Ottoman-Italian Jewish banker and philanthropist.
You continue to Balat, where Jewish families first settled in Istanbul after the Alhambra Decree expelled them from Spain in 1492. The last stop is the Ahrida Synagogue, dating from the 15th century.
At the end of the tour your guide takes you back to your hotel.
This is the end of our service. Thank you for travelling with us; we look forward to welcoming you again.
Inclusions & Exclusions
- ✓Private Tour
- ✓Local Tour Guides
- ✓Transportation by Private Van
- ✓Entrance Fees & Donations in Synagogues
- ✕Meals & Drinks
- ✕Gratuity (Suggested)
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel free of charge up to 7 days before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations within 7 days of the tour are not refundable. All times are local time.