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Private Istanbul Shore Excursion

4.8 607 reviews 🏆 Travelers' Choice 2026
/ 10
Duration
1 day 7h
Max Group Size
40
Departure Type
Scheduled
Guiding Method
Fully guided
Physical Level
Relax
Operated In
English
Age Requirement
11 - 99 Ages

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.

Overview

Route

Starts from
Istanbul
Ends in
Karakoy
Pickup Location
Karakoy
Dropoff Location
Karakoy
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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.

What's included

  • Guide
  • Transport
  • Other included
  • Hygiene protocol

Not included

  • Meals
  • Insurance
  • Other not included

Need help or have a question about this tour?

If you have any question about this tour or need help with planning a trip, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us. We're ready to help.

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Availability

Now, just deposit 25% of the total

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

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