Ertugrul Ghazi Day Tour from Istanbul | Sogut & Ottoman Heritage
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the world of “Resurrection: Ertugrul” on this full‑day journey from Istanbul to the historic heartlands of the Kayı tribe. This thoughtfully designed tour blends the real history behind the beloved TV series with the locations, stories, and traditions that shaped the rise of the Ottoman Empire.
Your day begins with an early pickup from your hotel in Istanbul and a comfortable drive out of the city, as your professional guide introduces the life of Ertugrul Gazi, the father of Osman I and a key figure in 13th‑century Anatolia. Along the way, you’ll hear how the series compares to historical records and learn about the political and religious landscape of the era. Arriving in the Bilecik–Sogut region, considered the “birthplace” of the Ottoman state, you’ll visit the most important Ertugrul‑related sites, such as the tombs, memorials, and mosques associated with the Kayı tribe and their early leaders.
Ertugrul Gazi Tomb in Sogut
Sheikh Edebali Tomb and Complex in Bilecik
Orhan Gazi Mosque and early Ottoman remains
Traditional Kayı Tribe monument and panoramic viewpoints
At each stop, your guide will share legends and documented history, explaining how a small frontier principality evolved into a world empire. You’ll have time for reflection, photos, and, where appropriate, quiet moments of prayer or contemplation. To bring the series to life, the tour also includes time in areas used as inspiration for the TV show’s set design, giving you the chance to picture iconic scenes and better understand the costumes, weapons, and daily life of the Kayı nomads.
Depending on the season and local events, you may see traditional crafts, archery demonstrations, or Ottoman‑style performances that echo the spirit of the series. A delicious lunch at a local restaurant introduces you to regional Turkish cuisine, with specialties from Central Anatolia and the Marmara region. Throughout the day, there will be opportunities to shop for themed souvenirs such as Kayı flags, jewelry, and replicas of the series’ costumes and accessories.
In the late afternoon, relax on the return drive to Istanbul as you reflect on the story of Ertugrul Gazi—no longer just a TV hero, but a real historical figure whose legacy helped shape centuries of history. You’ll arrive back at your hotel in the evening, enriched with new insight into both the legend and the reality behind “Resurrection: Ertugrul.”
The itinerary covers key filming locations and historical sites related to the Ertugrul and Ottoman series, with a professional guide explaining the history and TV connections: During the tour, you will visit important sets, villages, and landmarks used in the Dirilis: Ertugrul and related Ottoman-themed series, as well as genuine historical sites from the Seljuk and early Ottoman eras. A licensed guide typically accompanies the group, sharing background stories, historical context, and interesting details about how the locations were used in the TV productions.
Entrance fees to included attractions are covered, but it is advisable to bring some cash or a card for souvenirs and any optional services: Tickets for the main sets, museums, or historical sites listed in the tour description are generally included in the overall price, so you will not need to pay separately at those entrances. Still, it is wise to carry some money or a payment card for optional experiences, snacks, tip for the guide and driver if you wish, and any souvenirs you may want to purchase during the tour.
What's Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off from centrally located Istanbul hotels
- Round-trip transportation by air-conditioned coach to the Sogut and Bilecik region
- Professional English-speaking tour guide with expertise in Ertugrul and Ottoman history
- Visits to key Ertugrul-related sites such as Ertugrul Gazi Tomb, Alps’ graves, and monuments
- Entrance fees to museums, tombs, and historical sites included in the itinerary
- Lunch at a local restaurant featuring traditional Turkish cuisine
- Free time for photos, exploration, and optional shopping for local handicrafts and souvenirs
- Complimentary bottled water and refreshments during the tour
Not Included
- Drinks not specified in the itinerary
- Personal expenses such as souvenirs and extra snacks
- Cozy footwear for walking
- Appropriate attire for the weather along with a light jacket
- Protection from the sun (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Refillable water bottle and light snacks
- Camera or smartphone with an extra battery/power bank
- Identification or passport and local currency for emergencies
Frequently Asked Questions
The Daily Ertugrul Tour offers an immersive full-day experience departing from Istanbul to the historic regions of Sogut and Bilecik, recognized as the cradle of the Ottoman Empire. This captivating tour explores significant Ottoman heritage landmarks associated with figures such as Ertugrul Gazi, Osman Gazi, and Sheikh Edebali.
Sogut is approximately 250 km from Istanbul and the journey takes around 3.5 to 4 hours by road.
The usual time for hotel pick-up from Istanbul is around 08:30 AM.
The excursion encompasses stops at: Grave of Ertugrul Gazi, Alp’s Shrine at Ertugrul Gazi Complex, Tomb of Sheikh Edebali,
Mosque of Orhan Gazi, Ottoman Museum Timeline and scenic view of Bilecik city.
Yes, lunch at a local restaurant in Sogut is included in the tour.
Absolutely, the Ertugrul Tour is designed to be enjoyable for families and is perfect for individuals of all ages who have a passion for history and culture.
Definitely. This journey is particularly favored by enthusiasts of Dirilis: Ertugrul eager to visit authentic historical sites linked to the series and the dawn of the Ottoman Empire.
Indeed, the entry charges for the specified historical locations and museums are encompassed unless noted differently.
Absolutely, hotel collection and return from centrally situated hotels in Istanbul are part of the service.
This excursion encompasses a full day of adventure, spanning around 12 to 14 hours in total, which includes the travel arrangements.
The majority of excursions are carried out in English. Alternative language guides might be obtainable on demand.
The ideal times to explore Sogut are during spring and autumn, as the climate is pleasant and perfect for excursions.
Sogut is viewed as the sacred origin of the Ottoman Empire. It served as the domain of Ertugrul Gazi and subsequently emerged as the cornerstone for Osman Gazi’s Ottoman realm.
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