• Hagia Sophia Mosque - Hagia Sophia Museum / Ayasofya / Santa Sofia — Constructed in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian, it has been pivotal in both Christian and Islamic history. Recently, the mosque has updated its visitor policy for non-believers; a headset is now provided with the ticket. When in Istanbul, a visit to the iconic Hagia Sophia is essential. Its historical importance and stunning architecture make it a must-visit for any traveler. Istanbul shore excursions offer a guided tour of Hagia Sophia, allowing guests to experience this ancient and magnificent structure while enjoying the scenic beauty of the city’s shoreline. An unforgettable highlight of any Private Istanbul Tour.
• Topkapi Palace - Topkapi Palace Museum / Topkapı Sarayı — Beyond being the imperial residence of Ottoman sultans, it served as the seat of the Supreme Executive and Judiciary Council for nearly 400 years. A grand example of Oriental architecture that showcases the might of the Ottoman Empire. Istanbul shore excursions to Topkapi Palace provide visitors the opportunity to explore one of the city’s most renowned landmarks. This historic site, once the home of Ottoman sultans, is now a museum displaying a vast array of treasures. A guided Topkapi Palace tour allows guests to delve into Istanbul’s rich history while enjoying its beautiful courtyards and gardens. A must-visit destination and a highlight of any cruise-friendly itinerary.
• Blue Mosque - Blue Mosque / Sultanahmet Camii — Constructed in the early 1600s for Sultan Ahmet I, the Blue Mosque is an architectural masterpiece with delicate proportions for such a grand structure. The Blue Mosque in Istanbul offers shore excursion visitors the chance to admire its exquisite design, iconic blue tiles, and majestic domes. Its prime location near the cruise-friendly Sultanahmet area makes it an ideal stop for those on a private guided tour. This is one of Istanbul’s most photographed landmarks and should not be missed.
• Serpent Column - The Serpent Column (Ancient Greek: Τρικάρηνος Ὄφις), also known as the Serpentine Column or Plataean Tripod, is an ancient bronze monument at the Hippodrome of Constantinople. A historically significant stop often included in walking portions of private Istanbul tours.
• Sultanahmet Square - The Hippodrome of Constantinople (Greek: Ἱππόδρομος τῆς Κωνσταντινουπόλεως, romanized: Hippódromos tēs Kōnstantinoupóleōs; Latin: Circus Maximus Constantinopolitanus; Turkish: Hipodrom), was a circus that served as the sporting and social center of Constantinople, the capital of the Byzantine Empire. Today it is a square in Istanbul, Turkey, known as Sultanahmet Square (Turkish: Sultanahmet Meydanı).
• Grand Bazaar - Grand Bazaar / Kapalı Çarşı One of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, featuring over 4,000 shops with vibrant products including ceramics, leather, rugs, carpets, handicrafts, clothing, silver, and gold.
• Basilica Cistern - The Basilica Cistern, or Cisterna Basilica (Greek: Βασιλική Κινστέρνα, Turkish: Yerebatan Sarnıcı or Yerebatan Saray, “Subterranean Cistern” or “Subterranean Palace”), is the largest of several hundred ancient cisterns beneath the city of Istanbul, Turkey. Located 150 meters (490 ft) southwest of the Hagia Sophia on the historical peninsula of Sarayburnu, it was built in the 6th century during the reign of Byzantine emperor Justinian I. Today, it is maintained with minimal water, allowing public access inside the space.
• Sultanahmet District - A unique opportunity to discover Turkish handicrafts (Turkish Carpets, Leathers, ceramics) and enjoy shopping.

• Unique time to discover Turkish Handcrafts: Carpet, Leather, Ceramic, and Jewelry
• Skip the line for Topkapi Palace and Basilica Cistern tickets
• Public transportation from Cruise Port (Pick up/Drop Off & TOUR)
• Professional Licensed Tour Guide

• Lunch
• Gratitude (suggested)
• Admisson/Entrance fee - Topkapi Palace
• Admisson/Entrance fee - Basilica Cistern
• Transportation by VAN - UNLESS OPTION SELECTED (Pick up/Drop Off&Tour ALL DAY)

Experience the highlights of Istanbul in a short time with this Private Istanbul Tour, ideal for cruise passengers seeking a Shore Excursion. Conveniently meet your licensed guide at the cruise port, step into your private transport, and embark on your guided city tour.

Enjoy a guided visit to the Hagia Sophia Mosque, explore the Blue Mosque Tour area, benefit from a Skip-the-Line entry approach at major attractions when possible, and learn about the history of the Topkapi Palace along with many other highlights before returning to your ship promptly with this cruise-friendly itinerary.

Please note that some admissions are included, while others require payment on-site.

Explore several top attractions in Istanbul on this private guided shore excursion. Purchase authentic souvenirs at the Grand Bazaar or in the Sultanahmet District. Enjoy the flexibility of this fully private, customizable tour.

• Guaranteed On-Time Return To Your Ship

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