Overview
Embark on a seamless and enriching exploration of Istanbul’s most significant landmarks with our private full-day shore excursion from Galataport. Guided by a professional, licensed tour guide, this exclusive tour offers a deep dive into Istanbul’s vibrant culture and rich history. Discover iconic sites such as the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Hagia Sophia, and experience the artistry of Turkish carpet making. Savour traditional Turkish cuisine (own expense) and enjoy a flexible itinerary tailored to your interests. Travel in comfort with private, air-conditioned transportation, and benefit from complimentary admission to all visited attractions.
Highlights
- Personalised tour with a private guide
- Visit to the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Hagia Sophia
- Insight into Turkish carpet making
- Flexible itinerary tailored to your preferences
- Traditional Turkish cuisine (own expense)
- Comfortable travel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle
- Complimentary admission to all visited attractions
Advantages
- Personalised and flexible itinerary
- Expert local guide providing in-depth knowledge
- Comfortable and private air-conditioned transport
- Optimised for those with limited time onshore
- Stress-free pickup and drop-off at the port
- Complimentary admission to key attractions
Itinerary
- Galataport Istanbul
- Meet your private guide at Istanbul Port Terminal Building. Look for a sign with your name on it, approximately 30 minutes after your cruise docks.
- Duration: 15 minutes
- Galata Bridge (Pass By)
- Pass by the historic Galata Bridge over the Golden Horn.
- Hippodrome Square
- Explore the ancient Hippodrome, a former centre for chariot races and Byzantine riots.
- Duration: 20 minutes
- Blue Mosque
- Visit the renowned Blue Mosque, famous for its stunning blue Iznik tiles.
- Duration: 30 minutes
- Topkapi Palace
- Tour the Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans and administrative centre of the Ottoman Empire.
- Duration: 2 hours (Admission not included)
- Hagia Sophia
- Discover the Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece built in 532 AD by Roman Emperor Justinian I. Note: Live guiding is not allowed inside the Hagia Sophia; audio guides or smartphone apps are used.
- Duration: 45 minutes (Admission not included)
- Grand Bazaar
- After a lunch break at a local restaurant, visit the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets.
- Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Return to Galataport
- Walk back to the van and drive to the port, experiencing local life along the way.
- Duration: 30 minutes
Price
- Please contact us for detailed pricing and availability.
Includes
- Port pickup and drop-off
- Transport by air-conditioned minivan
- Professional licensed tour guide
- Complimentary admission to all visited attractions
Tips and Advice for Travellers
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress modestly, especially for mosque visits.
- Bring a smartphone and headphones for the Hagia Sophia audio guide.
- Carry some local currency for personal expenses and lunch.
- Stay hydrated and carry a bottle of water.
FAQs
1. How do I meet my guide at Galataport? Your guide will be waiting at the Istanbul Port Terminal Building with a sign displaying your name, approximately 30 minutes after your cruise docks.
2. Is the tour flexible? Yes, the itinerary can be customised to suit your interests and preferences.
3. Are admission fees included? Admission fees to all visited attractions are included, except for the Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia.
4. What should I wear? Comfortable walking shoes and modest clothing suitable for mosque visits are recommended.
5. Can I purchase lunch during the tour? Yes, there will be a lunch break at a local restaurant where you can try traditional Turkish cuisine (own expense).