Treasures of İznik: From Ancient Councils to Ceramics

About this tour

Begin your journey with a comfortable pick-up from your hotel in Istanbul, followed by a scenic two-hour drive to the historic town of İznik (ancient Nicaea).

Your first stop is the Iznik City Walls (300 BC), originally built by Lysimachus, one of Alexander the Great’s successors. These impressive fortifications once encircled the ancient city, and you will walk along sections of the 5 km-long walls while viewing monumental gates such as the Istanbul Gate and Lefke Gate—perfect spots for memorable photos.

Continue to the Hagia Sophia of Nicaea (Ayasofya–Orhan Mosque), the site of the Second Council of Nicaea in 787 AD. Built in the 4th century as a Byzantine basilica and later transformed into an Ottoman mosque, the structure showcases a fascinating blend of Roman foundations, Byzantine craftsmanship, and Ottoman architectural elements—all within the same sacred space.

Next, visit the Green Mosque (1391), an elegant example of early Ottoman architecture commissioned by Emir Süleyman. Its distinctive green-blue tiles and refined stone and woodwork reflect the artistic excellence of the early Ottoman period.

At the İznik Archaeological Museum, housed in one of the town’s most charming historical buildings, explore an impressive collection of artifacts, including Greek and Roman tombstones, glass and ceramic pieces, Byzantine mosaics, Seljuk and Ottoman tiles, and everyday items spanning centuries.

The tour continues with an exterior visit to the Roman Theatre (2nd Century AD), constructed during Emperor Trajan’s reign. Although still under restoration, your guide will provide detailed insight into its history and once-grand scale.

✨ NEW HIGHLIGHT: Underwater Basilica & Ancient Harbor Archaeological Site
Discovered in 2014 beneath the shallow waters of Lake İznik, this submerged basilica is one of Turkey’s most significant archaeological finds. Believed to be dedicated to St. Neophytos and dating back to the 4th–5th century, the basilica sits beside the remains of the ancient harbor. From the lakeside viewing platform, you will observe:

• The basilica’s submerged floor plan

• Harbor structures still visible underwater

• Marked excavation zones

• Informative panels on early Christian councils and Nicaea’s spiritual heritage

This extraordinary location brings together archaeology, faith, and the natural beauty of Lake İznik.

Enjoy a peaceful break by the Lake İznik shore, with the option to dine at a lakeside restaurant offering beautiful views. After lunch, you may visit a local ceramics workshop to experience İznik’s world-renowned tradition of tile-making.

At the end of the tour, relax on the return drive to Istanbul, where you will be dropped off at your hotel.