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Offered languages
- German
- English
Discover Istanbul’s historic heart on a private 3.5-hour tour designed for cruise passengers. Meet your guide at Galataport, then take the tram to Sultanahmet, where you can tailor the visit to your interests. Depending on your preferences and available time, explore landmarks such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Basilica Cistern before returning to Galataport.
- Explore at your own pace with a private guide.
- Choose the landmarks that interest you most.
- Start and finish at Galataport, close to your ship.
- Enjoy included tram travel to and from the Old Town.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
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.
Itinerary
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(Pass by)
Meet your private guide at Galataport and travel together to the historic heart of the city by tram ( included ). Your guide will accompany you throughout the experience and return with you to Galataport at the end of the tour.
Admission ticket free -
1Sultanahmet Square
Make the most of your limited time ashore with a flexible itinerary designed around your interests and ship 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 ticket free -
2Blue Mosque
Choose to visit the magnificent Blue Mosque, one of Istanbul’s most celebrated landmarks. Step inside to admire its grand domes, elegant Ottoman architecture, and intricate Iznik tiles. Your expert guide will share captivating stories of its construction and significance while you admire its grand interior and peaceful courtyard views.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
3Basilica Cistern
Descend into the enchanting depths of the Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground reservoir built under Emperor Justinian. Marvel at its forest of marble columns, mysterious Medusa heads, and the magical ambiance of one of Istanbul’s most atmospheric sites.
40 minutes • Admission ticket included -
4Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
Step inside the majestic Hagia Sophia. Originally a Greek Orthodox cathedral and later an imperial mosque, this architectural wonder blends Christian mosaics with Islamic calligraphy under its awe-inspiring central dome, one of the largest of its time. Admire famous mosaics like the Deesis Mosaic, the Imperial Gate Mosaic, and the enchanting image of the Virgin Mary with Child, each telling stories of faith, power, and artistry across centuries.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
Additional info
- 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 must wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Shorts, sleeveless tops, and other revealing attire are not permitted inside.
- 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.
- Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays. Topkapi is closed on Tuesdays.
Additional info
- 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 must wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Shorts, sleeveless tops, and other revealing attire are not permitted inside.
- 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.
- Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays. Topkapi is closed on Tuesdays.
- Tips or gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.
- Admission tickets are only included if the correct option is selected
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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