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Istanbul in a Day: Private Exclusive Shore Tour for Cruise Guests

6 hours

Easy

Experience the best of Istanbul in one unforgettable day with a private, guided tour designed for cruise passengers. Visit top landmarks like Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar — with pickup and drop-off directly from your ship.
Your private Istanbul shore tour begins with a comfortable pickup directly from your cruise ship at Galataport or Sarayburnu terminal in a luxury vehicle with a dedicated driver. Accompanied by your professional English-speaking guide, you’ll start the day at the iconic Blue Mosque, where stunning Ottoman architecture and vibrant tilework await. Next, visit the legendary Hagia Sophia — a marvel of Byzantine and Ottoman history — where we’ll assist you in purchasing a digital ticket in advance to avoid delays. Continue with a stroll through Sultanahmet Square, once the Hippodrome of Constantinople, to see historic monuments like the Obelisk of Theodosius and the Serpent Column. If you wish, we can also include a visit to the mysterious Basilica Cistern, where we offer skip-the-line access. The journey continues to the colorful and bustling Grand Bazaar or Spice Bazaar, where your guide will help you explore and experience local crafts and flavors without pressure to shop. An optional lunch stop can be added at a rooftop or traditional Turkish restaurant, time permitting. Throughout the day, we maintain a relaxed but efficient pace to ensure you return to your ship comfortably and on time, with a head full of memories and a heart full of Istanbul.
What's included?
  • Fuel surcharge
  • Parking fees
  • Goods & services tax

This tour includes a professional, English-speaking licensed guide, a separate private driver, and transportation in a luxury air-conditioned van reserved exclusively for your group. From the moment you step off your cruise ship, everything is arranged for your comfort and ease — ensuring a smooth, enjoyable, and fully guided experience through Istanbul's most iconic sites.

Exclusions
  • Entry or admission fee

Please note that entrance tickets for Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern are not included in the tour price. We will assist you in purchasing digital tickets on-site or in advance to save time. The Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar, and other stops on our route have free entry and are open to the public. Our goal is to maximize your time and experience while keeping the tour flexible and transparent in cost.

Please note
  • Dress code

Please note that visiting Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque requires modest clothing, and women must cover their hair with a scarf. If you don’t have your own scarf, you can easily purchase or borrow one near the mosque entrances. Your guide will assist you with any dress code questions to ensure a respectful and smooth entry.

What to bring

    Please note that entering Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque requires modest attire out of respect for these active places of worship. Women are required to cover their hair with a scarf, and both men and women should wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees(no shorts or sleeveless tops). If you don’t have a scarf or appropriate cover-up, you can easily purchase or borrow items near the mosque entrances. Your guide will be happy to assist and ensure you're prepared for entry without any inconvenience.