Private Istanbul Shore Excursion

·5.0(4 reviews)·Daily, 6 Destinations·Starts from İstanbul
Private Istanbul Shore Excursion 1
Private Istanbul Shore Excursion 2
Private Istanbul Shore Excursion 3
Private Istanbul Shore Excursion 4
Private Istanbul Shore Excursion 1
Private Istanbul Shore Excursion 2
Private Istanbul Shore Excursion 3
Private Istanbul Shore Excursion 4
Private Istanbul Shore Excursion 5
Private Istanbul Shore Excursion 6
Private Istanbul Shore Excursion 7
Private Istanbul Shore Excursion 8
Private Istanbul Shore Excursion 9
Private Istanbul Shore Excursion 10
Free Cancellation
Full refund up to 30 days before the tour
Early Booking Advantage
Only 25% prepayment until 30 days before departure

Duration

daily

Max Group Size

40

Departure Type

Scheduled

Guiding Method

Fully guided

Physical level

relax

Operated In

English

Age Requirement

11 - 99 Ages

Tour Overview

Explore Istanbul’s rich history with our Private Old City Shore Excursion. Visit iconic landmarks including Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the vibrant Spice Market. This private guided tour offers flexibility, comfort, and an unforgettable cultural experience in the heart of Istanbul.

AdventureDailyDiscoveryFamilyHistoricalMuseumPhotographySightseeingSolo TravelWalking TourExplorerIn-depth Cultural

Route

Starts from

İstanbul

Ends in

Karakoy

Pickup Location

Karakoy, 09:00

Dropoff Location

Karakoy, 16:00

Tour route map

Highlights

Hagia Sophia: A breathtaking architectural masterpiece that has served as a church, mosque, and museum, showcasing the rich history of Istanbul. Blue Mosque: Renowned for its striking blue Iznik tiles and stunning Ottoman design, this mosque remains a symbol of Istanbul’s spiritual heritage. Topkapi Palace: The opulent residence of Ottoman sultans, featuring lavish courtyards, intricate mosaics, and the legendary Harem section. Basilica Cistern: An underground marvel built during the Byzantine era, known for its mysterious ambiance and the famous Medusa head pillars. Grand Bazaar: One of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, where you can browse thousands of shops offering spices, textiles, jewelry, and authentic Turkish handicrafts. Hippodrome of Constantinople: Once the sporting and social center of the Byzantine Empire, home to impressive monuments such as the Egyptian Obelisk and the Serpent Column.

Itinerary

Join our private shore excursion in Istanbul Old City and discover the city’s most iconic landmarks, blending Byzantine, Ottoman, and Islamic heritage. This tailor-made tour is perfect for cruise passengers or travelers who want to explore Istanbul with flexibility and comfort.

The tour begins in Eyüp Neighborhood, one of the most important spiritual districts for Muslims, where we visit the historic Eyüp Mosque. We continue to Pierre Loti Hill to enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the Golden Horn and Istanbul’s old city. Driving along the City Walls of Constantinople, you will witness the mighty fortifications that once protected the Byzantine capital.

Next, we explore the Chora Museum (Kariye Mosque), world-famous for its dazzling Byzantine mosaics and frescoes. The journey continues to Little Hagia Sophia, an architectural gem from the early Byzantine period. At the Ancient Hippodrome, you will step back into history where chariot races and political events once took place.

We then visit the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque), one of Istanbul’s most recognizable landmarks with its stunning blue Iznik tiles and six minarets. The tour also includes the Hagia Sophia, where you can admire the exterior and optionally enter with an admission ticket. Similarly, we stop at the Topkapi Palace, visiting the first courtyard, with the option to explore the interior if you purchase a ticket.

Our cultural journey continues with the Caferağa Madrasah, a 16th-century Ottoman educational institution, and the Nuruosmaniye Mosque, a unique example of Ottoman Baroque architecture. Finally, we walk down to the vibrant Spice Market (Egyptian Bazaar), where colorful spices, sweets, and local products create an unforgettable atmosphere.

At the end of your Istanbul Old City Tour, you will be comfortably transferred back to your hotel or port.

Important Notes

·         Visiting Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace is optional. Entrance fees are not included in the tour price.

·         Depending on timing and guest preferences, the itinerary may be adjusted to ensure the best experience.

Make your trip unforgettable with this Istanbul Old City Private Shore Excursion, offering history, culture, and breathtaking views in one journey.
We hope your tour will be a memorable one and we look forward to see you in the future on another TravelShop booking Tour. Have a safe trip back home and thanks for choosing TravelShop booking.

Trip includes

Included

Professional English-speaking tour guides

Guiding Method
Fully guided

English

Transportation in a fully air-conditioned, non-smoking coach
Transportation is included in the program.

Coach / BusMini-coachPrivate Vehicle

Guided Istanbul Private Shore Excursion Tour in Old City


Duration: Approximately 5–6 hours, ensuring you return to your cruise ship on time.

Transportation: Comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle with a professional driver.

Tour Guide: Experienced, licensed local guide providing in-depth historical and cultural insights.

Entrance Fees: Museum Entrance Fee. You pay the door price.

Dress Code: Modest attire is recommended, especially when visiting mosques; women may need to cover their heads.

Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Customization: The itinerary can be tailored to your preferences, allowing for a flexible and stress-free experience.

Book this exclusive Istanbul Private Shore Excursion Tour for an immersive experience in one of the world’s most enchanting cities. Discover the wonders of the Old City with expert guidance, ensuring a memorable and hassle-free exploration of Istanbul’s rich heritage.

Excluded

Lunch

Vegetarian Halal

Insurance: All types

All entrance fees mentioned in the itinerary
Personal expenses: Lunches, extras at hotel or additional meals
Tipping: Tips for guides and drivers
City Tax

Availability

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Now, just deposit 25% of the total

Book the tour by paying only 25% upfront, and settle the remaining amount 30 days before the tour departure.

Reviews

5.0
·4 reviews
qu_nhv2014
qu_nhv2014
Jul 12, 2017TripAdvisor
One day in Istanbul

That is an easiest way to discover Istanbul in 1 day. Tour guide will pick you up at the hotel and take you visit all of the famous places in Istanbul. He will ...

Arsalan A
Arsalan A
Jun 08, 2016TripAdvisor
So Much Love! By Arsalan Ahmed

Being a former art history student, Istanbul had been on my checklist primarily because of Hagia Sophia.... any art junkie would understand this feeling :D And...

Adeel M
Adeel M
Jun 04, 2016TripAdvisor
Turgay Polat the guide - Travel Shop Turkey

Turgay was the best guide we could have for our trip to Istanbul. Very professional, excellent English and a great company to spend our time with. I would highl...

Anum N
Anum N
Jun 03, 2016TripAdvisor
Turkey Trip with Turgay

I have fallen In love with Istanbul. had an amazing experience in Turkey, today I am leaving back and I am surely going to miss these 8 days. our travel guide w...

Request a Private, Customizable Departure

By design, this is a group tour. You can however request a private, customized version of this tour for yourself or your private group of people. Private departures are usually more expensive, but come with these benefits:

Personal

Itinerary can be tweaked and customized.

Protected

Travel withing your own bubble.

Professional

Access our Travel Specialists insider knowledge.

Privacy

Enjoy a tour focused solely on you or your travel group.

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