Shore Excursions From Istanbul
(Galataport) Cruise Port

Highlights Of The Best Of Istanbul - 8-Hour Shore Excursion

Specially destined for cruise passengers visiting Istanbuþ (Galataport) for hours or a day

Tour Highlights

• Blend in with locals and shop local specialty products at lively outdoor markets
• See the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Cistern with your own personal guide
• Take memorable photos while exploring the Grand Bazaar's 4,000 shops
• Marvel at the Basilica Cistern as featured in Dan Brown's novel, "Inferno"
• Discover Sultanahmet Square, Topkapi Palace, and the Sultan Ahmed Mosque

Full description

Learn about the historical development of the city under the Roman Empire and Ottoman Empire on a private tour. Compare the different cultures and religions of these empires while exploring iconic Istanbul sights like Topkapi Palace and the Hagia Sophia Mosque. Travel stress-free with private roundtrip transportation.

Enjoy unhurried visits to the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, the Basilica Cistern, and the Hippodrome of Constantinople. Visit the famous Sultanahmet Mosque, also known as Blue Mosque, due to its unique interior decoration of blue royal Iznik tiles.

At the Hippodrome, see where the Romans used to organize chariot races and gladiators' fights. Admire its remaining Egyptian Obelisk, Serpentine Column, Constantine Column, and German Fountain.

Finish your day by learning about Turkish handicrafts at the famous Grand Bazaar and its 4,000 shops (replaced with the Arasta Baazar or the Spice Bazaar on Sundays). With your private guide leading the way, there's no chance of getting lost in the bazaar.

This tour is a good start for first-time visitors to Istanbul. You'll gain a good idea of the past, present, and future of Istanbul while visiting some of the city's must-see sights and monuments. You can pause the tour at any point to ask questions or adjust the itinerary.

Includes

• Pickup and drop-off from Galataport
• Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle
• Fully private tour
• Skip-the-line access to buy tickets
• Topkapi Palace and Basilica Cistern entry tickets
• Lunch
• Tips

Know before you go

• Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays
• The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays. On these days, it will be replaced with the Arasta Baazar or the Spice Bazaar
• Women need to wear a scarf to cover their head

Private Bosphorus Yacht Cruise for Cruise Passengers

See the breathtaking views and enjoy Istanbul on a luxury yacht with a Bosphorus Strait sightseeing cruise.

We can pick you up by our yacht from Galataport and drop you back at the cruise terminal so that you will not waste your limited time.

You can take the cruise at any time of the day, just choose the time and we will make the best cruise route for you.

You may also order one of our experienced tour guides if you like to hear the stories of the sights you see. You have chance to have lunch or dinner on board the yacht.

Our 'Sunset Bosphorus' Yacht

You'll cruise along all along two sides of the Bosphorus; Europe and Asia, pass under two bridges and see over 100 of the Istanbul's most iconic landmarks including Dolmabahce Palace, Rumeli Fortress, Beylerbeyi Palace, Seaside Villas and, of course, an up close look at the Maiden's Tower!

Best cruise to see Istanbul from the water for those who have limited time. See both European & Asian sides and the most important highlights of the city on this 2-Hours Bosphorus Cruise. You will also have an opportunity to visit an Ottoman palace on the Asian side of Istanbul.

This strait separating two continents has always been crucial to life in Istanbul. Once a prime channel to move fearsome armies through, it now serves more peaceful functions. Seeing this important trading route is a must-do for travelers. On board a private yacht, hear stories and anecdotes of this mesmerizing city. Sail by Topkapi Palace and Dolmabahce Palace. Admire the thick walls of the medieval Rumeli Fortress. See wooden Ottoman villas and chic neighborhoods along the banks.