Istanbul Private Full Day Guided Tour for Cruise Passengers

Highlights

Itinerary

1. 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.

   Pass by (no stop)•Admission free

2. 2

   Sultanahmet

   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.

   20 minutes•Admission free•See on map

3. 3

   Hippodrome

   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.

   10 minutes•Admission free•See on map

4. 4

   Blue Mosque

   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.

   45 minutes•Admission free•See on map

5. 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.

   40 minutes•Admission not included

6. 6

   Topkapi Palace

   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.

   2 hours•Admission not included•See on map

7. 7

   Basilica Cistern

   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.

   30 minutes•Admission not included•See on map

8. 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.

   1h 30m•Admission free

Meeting point

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.

The map shows Istanbul. The exact meeting point is the address above.Open larger map

Pickup

• Everyone meets at the start point

Know before you go

• 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.
• Mobile or paper ticket accepted
• One per booking
• Please meet your guide at the meeting point. Entrance tickets can be purchased directly from your guide during the tour.

Cancellation and refunds

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