Private & Mini Group 7-8 Hours Guided Excursion from Cruise Port
Active
7h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Why Private Tours with Us?
Special discounts. You will decide on departure time. Our tour guide will meet you at the port with your name sign, Our professional tour guide and A/C vehicle will be with you from arrival till departure, Our professional guide will be with you in the sites. Our guide will have pre-paid tickets to skip the lines. Fees can be paid to our guide after the tour. You will have flexibilty to spend how much time you want in each site and make small changes on the itinerary, You do not have to wait for other group members. You will have a chance to make stops to have pictues during the tour. Our Private tour rates are more reasonable than cruise shore tours, You will have several alternatives to taste famous Turkish Delicious foods, if you want to have lunch during your trip
Available options
Private Option
Private Option: Private option for your family and friends.Meeting time will be emailed by our reservation in 24 hours after your reservation<br/>Pickup included
Small Group Option
Small Group Tour (max 10 pax) : Meeting time will be given by our reservation department in 24 hours by email after your reservation
<br/>Pickup included
What's included
GUARANTEED On Time Return to PORT
Professional Licenced Tour guide
Port pickup and drop-off
Transport by air-conditioned minivan
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Your private guide will meet you at Istanbul port Terminal Building with a sign written “Your Name“ on it at pre-arranged time ( mostly 30 minutes after your cruise doct into port ) or from the listed hotel receptions with room numbers.
- Every cruise lines has different dock in times. Pick up times are different for each cruise. Thats why pick up time for your tour will be emailed with in 24 hours after your reservation. Please check your emails and note pick up time and all details you will need during the tour.
2
Stop 2
After Greeting, walk to our A/C van and start to visit Istanbul the only city in the world located on two continents is Istanbul, which has been the capital of three great empires – Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman – for more than 2000 years.
Our first stop is Hippodrome Square where used to take place for chariot races and the Byzantine riots during Roman & Byzantine period.
3
Stop 3
After a short lunch break in famous local restaurants like Pudding Shop, we will walk to visit Grand Bazaar where is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with more than 58 covered streets and over 1,200 shops which attract between 250,000 and 400,000 visitors daily. Opened in 1461, it is well known for its jewelry, pottery, spice, and carpet shops.
4
Stop 4
Our second stap is Blue Mosque where is a few meters to Ancient Hipodromme. Blue Mosque has its fame from its beautiful blue Iznik tiles
5
Stop 5
Continue walking around 300 meters to Topkapi Palace, was not only the residence of the Ottoman sultans, but also the administrative and educational center of the state. It was constructed between 1460 and 1478 by Sultan Mehmed II, the conqueror of Constantinople. We will visit the Topkapi Palace including weapons section.
6
Stop 6
Only a short walk away, reaches Hagia Sophia built in 532 AD by ORoman Emperor Justinian I.
Update for St. Sophia interior visit :
Live guiding is not allowed in St. Sophia after the 15th January 2024. Guests have to have their smart phones and headphones during their visit. If guests do not have a headphone, they can buy at the entrance at the cost of 3,5-USD
The system is similar to audio guide system. Guests who does not have smart phones will follow the signs and the given informations on the signs .
7
Stop 7
Pass by
Pass by Galata bridge over Golden Horn.
8
Stop 8
After Grand Bazaar we will walk back to our van and drive to Porth through Galata port where you will see local people taking feries , having street foods and fishing . Arrival back to port or to your hotel and the end of our services
What's not included
Food and drinks
Tips
Entrance Fees (Our guide will have pre-paid tickets to skip lines)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
237 reviews
5★
203
4★
14
3★
14
2★
3
1★
3
Tripadvisor
4.9
39 reviews
5★
36
4★
2
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Dress Code Men : Knees MUST be covered. Long shorts and/or pants Women : Head, shoulders and legs must be covered. Covers will ve sold in front of St. Sophia and will be given for use in fron of blue mosque Shoes are not to be worn in mosques. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements.
In the event of any museum closures, an alternative similar museum will be visited. On Tuesdays : Topkapi Palace replaced by Underground Cistern, On Sundays: Grand Bazaar will be replaced by Spice Market. Grand Bazaar on religious holidays will be replaced by Arasta Bazaar. On Fridays: Blue Mosque is open from 14.30 to 16.30
Private tour for your family and friends
There will be around 2-2,5 miles walk in this tour. Traffic is not allowed in Sultanahmet Square where all the highlights are . If you have walking problem, you have to book private option and have a slow tour with stops to relax in the cafees in old city
About Turkey
Turkey, a transcontinental country, bridges Europe and Asia, offering a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the ancient ruins of Ephesus and the serene beaches of the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, Turkey is a destination that caters to a wide range of interests.
Top Attractions
Hagia Sophia
A masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, the Hagia Sophia has served as a church, mosque, and now a museum. Its massive dome and stunning mosaics are a testament to its historical significance.
Historical/Religious
2-3 hours
Moderate (around 1000 TRY or 150 USD)
Ephesus
One of the most well-preserved ancient cities, Ephesus features impressive ruins, including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre.
Historical
Half-day to full day
Moderate (around 150 TRY or 25 USD)
Cappadocia
Known for its unique rock formations and underground cities, Cappadocia offers hot air balloon rides, hiking, and cave dwellings.
Nature/Adventure
2-3 days
Moderate to Expensive (depending on activities)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kebabs
Grilled or skewered meats, often seasoned with spices and served with bread, rice, or vegetables.
Main Course
Contains meat, can be made with various types of meat or vegetarian options.
Meze
A selection of small dishes, often including dips like hummus, baba ganoush, and various salads.
Appetizer
Can be vegetarian or vegan, depending on the specific dishes.
Baklava
A sweet pastry made with layers of filo dough, nuts, and honey or syrup.
Dessert
Contains nuts and sugar, can be made with various types of nuts.
Popular Activities
Hiking in Cappadocia
Paragliding in Oludeniz
Skiing in Uludağ
Hammam (Turkish bath)
Beach relaxation in Antalya
Yoga retreats in Fethiye
Visiting museums and historical sites
Attending traditional music and dance performances
Best Time to Visit
April to May, September to November
These months offer pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The tourist crowds are manageable, and the prices are relatively lower compared to the summer peak season.
15°C to 30°C
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Turkish
- Widely spoken: English, German, French
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Turkish Lira (TRY)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas
Turkey is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime, scams, and occasional political protests can occur. Stay informed and take necessary precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
Getting there
By air
- Istanbul Airport • 35 km from Istanbul city center
- Sabiha Gökçen International Airport • 32 km from Istanbul city center
By train
Istanbul Sirkeci Station, Istanbul Haydarpaşa Station
By bus
Istanbul Bus Terminal (Otogar), Ankara Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The metro system in Istanbul is efficient and covers major attractions. Other cities have smaller metro networks.
Taxis
Available • Apps: BiTaksi, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Sultanahmet
Beşiktaş
Kadıköy
Day trips
Princes' Islands
15-20 km from Istanbul • Half day to full day
A group of islands known for their peaceful atmosphere, historic mansions, and horse-drawn carriages. Perfect for a relaxing escape from the city.
Bursa
100 km from Istanbul • Full day
Known as the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, Bursa offers a rich history, beautiful mosques, and the famous Uludağ mountain for outdoor activities.
Troy
300 km from Istanbul • Full day
The ancient city of Troy, famous for the Trojan War and its archaeological significance. The site features the iconic Trojan Horse and well-preserved ruins.
Festivals
Istanbul Biennial • September to November (every two years)
Ephesus International Festival • May to June
International Izmir Short Film Festival • April
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Turkish phrases to enhance your interaction with locals
- Use the Istanbulkart for discounted public transportation fares in Istanbul
- Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
- Bargain politely when shopping at bazaars and markets
- Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
