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Istanbul: Private Full Day Guided Tour for Cruise Passengers

5Istanbul

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Overview

See Istanbul’s most important sites in a single day on a private tour, including Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Basilica Cistern, and the Grand Bazaar. With skip-the-line tickets available for purchase directly from your guide, you’ll avoid the wait and make the most of your time. Explore the city’s rich history with an expert local guide, who can tailor the day to your interests for a truly personalized experience. Wander through the vibrant Grand Bazaar with insider tips to help you navigate its treasures, and dive into the fascinating stories of the Ottoman and Byzantine empires. Walk through the heart of the Sultanahmet district, the oldest part of Istanbul, where ancient monuments stand beside lively neighborhoods and historic streets.

  • Choose the ticket-included option in advance or purchase it from your guide during the tour
  • Expert guide for a insider's local knowledge
  • Private tour for a more personalized experience
  • Tram transportation between Galataport and the Old Town
  • Option to customise the itinerary according to ship schedule
  • Guide pick up and drop off from Galataport
  • Not included: Lunch (can be purchased on the spot)
  • Not included: Private vehicle transportation (can be arranged upon request)
  • Not included: Admission tickets are only available if you choose the correct option

Once your ship docks at Galata port, make your way outside the terminal. Walk to the Galata Port Clock Tower Square. Your guide will be holding a sign that says "Walks In Europe" next to the clock tower.

Meeting and Pickup

  1. Meet your private guide at Galataport, then take the tram to Sultanahmet. Enjoy a convenient, authentic way to experience Istanbul as you head to the historic Old Town.

  2. Make the most of your limited time ashore with a flexible itinerary built around your interests and the ship's schedule. Travel with your private guide to Sultanahmet Square, the heart of Istanbul’s historic center, and walk through the ancient Hippodrome as you make your way between the area’s major landmarks.

  3. Walk through the famous Hippodrome of Istanbul seeing the famous Obelisks and the German Fountain. Learn about its history and the public use of this space in Byzantine and Ottoman times.

  4. Visit the world-famous Blue Mosque, Istanbul’s premier sight. Blue Mosque in Istanbul is an essential part of any Istanbul tour that lets you see mosque architecture and learn the basics of Islam in a very relevant setting.

  5. Visit the inspiring Hagia Sophia, which on its own, justifies a visit to Istanbul. The church of the Divine Wisdom is eternally impressive and important with its extraordinary dimensions and beauty. You can expect to have in-depth explanations of the monument as part of your tour.

  6. Take a break for lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to Topkapi Palace, the magnificent center of Ottoman power for centuries. Explore its courtyards, pavilions, gardens, and terraces while learning about the sultans and the empire they ruled.

  7. Explore the “Subterranean Palace,” where you’ll learn about Byzantine architecture and the area’s intriguing history as you gaze upon underground pillars. Walk on the wooden walkways over the water with an eye out for the famous upside-down Medusa heads.

  8. Finish your Istanbul adventure at the legendary Grand Bazaar. Follow your guide through its colorful maze of shops and discover handcrafted treasures, from Iznik tiles and silk to jewelry, leather goods, carpets, and more.

Public transportation options are available nearby Suitable for all physical fitness levels Women are required to wear a headscarf when entering the mosque. Both men and women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Shorts, sleeveless tops, and other revealing attire are not permitted inside. Wearing or displaying any specific religious symbols or attire is not permitted. You are not allowed to bring signs, symbols, banners, flags, documents, drawings, or any materials representing political, ideological, or religious beliefs inside the Hagia Sophia. Tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated. Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays. Topkapi is closed on Tuesdays.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Languages

German, English

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From US$200.42