Shore Excursion in Istanbul: 1 or 2 Day Private Guided Tour

Your tour guide will meet you at your cruise port and start your Istanbul Old City Shore Excursion Tour.

During the tour you will visit:

Topkapi Palace Museum: Once the residence of Ottoman sultans and the ruling hub of an empire, this palace was not only a royal home but also the center of government for nearly 4 centuries. Its courtyards, pavilions, and treasures reflect the grandeur of Ottoman era and the refinement of Eastern architecture.

Sultanahmet Square: Just like an open-air museum of monuments, Sultanahmet Square (also called Byzantine Hippodrome) was the stage for thrilling chariot races during the Roman period. Today, you’ll see the ancient Egyptian Obelisk, Serpentine Column, and German Fountain, each marking different chapters of the city’s past.

Hagia Sophia: Commissioned by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century, Hagia Sophia is a masterpiece that has served as both a Byzantine cathedral and an imperial mosque. Its dome, mosaics, and layered history make it one of the most significant spiritual landmarks bridging Christianity and Islam.

Blue Mosque: Built in the early 17th century, this iconic mosque dazzles visitors with its harmonious proportions, cascading domes, and blue Iznik tiles that give it its famous nickname.

Grand Bazaar: Conclude your day with a dive into one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, home to thousands of shops offering carpets, jewelry, ceramics, and unique handcrafts. The maze of colorful stalls creates an atmosphere that’s both vibrant and timeless.

After completing your private Istanbul tour here, your private guide will accompany you on the way back to your port.

*This trip can be operated as a walking tour because sites of visit are near to each other. But if your hotel is not centrally located, booking a private van is recommended from and back to your hotel.

*If one of the mosques is not visited, Basilica Cistern will be visited as a replacement.

This morning, your guide and driver will meet you at your hotel or cruise terminal to continue exploring the city’s modern and cultural gems.

During the Highlights Excursion, you will visit:

Dolmabahce Palace: Step inside the lavish residence of the late Ottoman sultans, an architectural jewel of the 19th century blending Ottoman traditions with European elegance. Here is also the place where the founder of the Republic of Turkey, Ataturk had spent the last days of his life. 

Bosphorus Cruise: Enjoy the ever-changing panorama of Istanbul from the water, sailing between Europe and Asia on a shared ferry. 

*A private yacht option is available if you’d prefer a more exclusive experience.

Taksim Square: The beating heart of modern Istanbul, this square is a hub of cultural life, symbolic monuments, and vibrant energy. 

Istiklal Street: Stroll down the city’s most famous pedestrian avenue, lined with shops, cafés, historic arcades, and street performers. It’s the perfect spot to experience the everyday pulse of Istanbul. One of the most famous streets of Istanbul for shopping.

St. Anthony of Padua Church: Hidden among the bustle of Istiklal Street stands the largest Catholic church in Istanbul, a peaceful sanctuary with a striking Neo-Gothic design.

Galata Tower: While admiring it from outside, hear the stories behind this medieval watchtower that has overlooked Istanbul’s skyline for centuries.

Spice Market: End your journey in a feast of colors and aromas. Here you can sample Turkish delights, spices, teas, and discover souvenirs full of flavor and tradition.

After your shore excursion tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel or cruise ship. 

This is the end of our service. We sincerely hope to welcome you as our guest again!