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Activity Istanbul, Turkey

For Cruisers: Private Istanbul Shore Excursion - 1 or 2 Day Tour

4.3 (4 reviews) 2 days Free cancellation Private tour
Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

For Cruisers: Private Istanbul Shore Excursion - 1 or 2 Day Tour

About this activity

Explore Istanbul on a private shore excursion designed for cruise guests. Choose a 1 or 2-day itinerary tailored to your ship schedule.

Wandering privately with your local guide and van will make you minimize the time loss and customize your tour regarding your interests.

Skip the line service is available for Hagia Sophia tickets.

On Fridays, Hagia Sophia or Blue Mosque will be visited from outside because of the worship.

Overnight Tours Multi-day Tours Bus Tours Private and Luxury Private Sightseeing Tours Cultural Tours Historical Tours Shore Excursions

At a glance

Duration
2 days
Confirmation
Instant confirmation
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group
Your group only
People per booking
1–8
Guide
English, Spanish
Operated by
Guided Istanbul Tours

What is included

Included

  • Included: Transportation with Private Van
  • Included: Flexible Pick-up Point: Guide will meet you at central Istanbul hotels, Airbnb, or Galataport
  • Included: Private Tour with a Licensed Professional Tour Guide
  • Included: Skip-the-Line Tickets: Your guide will arrange priority tickets, you will pay directly to the guide

Not included

  • Not included: Museum Tickets (Available upon request)
  • Not included: Lunch and Drinks
  • Not included: Gratuities (Suggested)

Itinerary

Day 1 · Istanbul Old City

  1. Hippodrome

    30 min

    Our guide will give you a detailed explanation about the center of Constantinopolis where also the horse races were held.

  2. Blue Mosque

    30 min

    (TEMPORARILY CLOSED BETWEEN JANUARY 1 - APRIL 1 ON 2023)

    You will enter the Blue Mosque to see the beatiful architecture and mosaics from inside.

  3. TopkapI Palace

    2 hours Admission not included

    You will witness the Ottoman era and the relics they have inherited during ages.

  4. Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque

    one hour Admission not included

    You will have the chance to experience the holy Hagia Sophia which is sacred for both Christianity and Islam.

  5. Sultanahmet District

    Passing by

    The center of historical part of city will be visited with your tour guide and we will see all important highlights of the Istanbul that is surrounded by history.

  6. Basilica Cistern

    45 min Admission not included

    Descend beneath Sultanahmet to explore the Basilica Cistern, a remarkable Byzantine underground reservoir dating back to the 6th century. Walk along its raised platforms, admire the rows of illuminated columns, and see the famous Medusa head sculptures while your private guide explains the history and purpose of this atmospheric landmark.

  7. Grand Bazaar

    2 hours

    Marvel at the World's biggest historical market where you may find the best souvenirs for your trip.

Day 2 · Istanbul Highlights

  1. Dolmabahce Palace

    2 hours Admission not included

    You will visit one of the most glamorous palaces built in 19th century.

  2. Bosphorus Strait

    2 hours Admission not included

    You will enjoy the beauties of the Bosphorus Strait with a public ferry.

  3. Taksim Square

    15 min

    Your guide will explain to you the facts for Taksim Square, the monumental pedestrian city center of Modern Istanbul.

  4. Istiklal Caddesi

    2 hours

    You will walk along the most famous shopping street in the city and experience the local life. Shopping is also possible.

  5. St Antoine Catholic Church

    15 min

    You will visit the biggest Catholic Church in the city which is located on Istiklal Street.

  6. Galata Tower

    Passing by

    You may take photos from outside while listening to the history of the Tower.

  7. Misir Carsisi

    30 min

    You will stop by the market to taste the local products and find nice souvenirs to take home.

Meeting point and pickup

The operator picks every participant up from their accommodation or the points below.

Pickup points

We pick up guests from the ports in Istanbul.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

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

If you cancel You get back
At least one day before 100%
Less than a day before 0%

Good to know

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

  • Hagia Sophia is closed for visit during praying time.

  • Annual Closing Dates of all museums and bazaars in Istanbul in 2021 as follows; January 1-New Year. May 13/14/15-Ramadan Celebrations. July 20/21/22/23-Eid Celebrations. October 29-Republic Day.

  • Knowledgeable and kid-friendly professional tour guide

Options

  • 2-Day Private Shore Excursion

    7 hours per day

    Pickup included

  • 1-Day Private Shore Excursion

    Duration: 7 hours

    Pickup included

Traveller ratings

4.3 out of 5 · 4 reviews
5
75%
4
0%
3
0%
2
25%
1
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Activities, prices and reviews are from Viator. Booking and payment happen on Viator; Vacantier may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

For Cruisers: Private Istanbul Shore Excursion - 1 or 2 Day Tour

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