Exploring the vibrant history and culture of Istanbul has never been easier. The all-inclusive Old Istanbul Tour takes cruise ship passengers on an immersive 8-hour journey through the city’s iconic landmarks. With skip-the-line access and a knowledgeable guide, travelers can explore the rich heritage of Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the Sultan Ahmed Mosque. Complemented by a traditional Turkish lunch, this comprehensive tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the best of Istanbul’s historic attractions.
Key Points

- An 8-hour, all-inclusive Old Istanbul tour for groups starting from the cruise port, covering key attractions like Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the Grand Bazaar.
- The tour offers skip-the-line access, guided tours, and a traditional Turkish lunch, with a price starting at $141.75 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- The itinerary highlights include guided tours of Topkapi Palace, visits to Hagia Sophia and the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, and exploration of the Sultanahmet district and the Grand Bazaar.
- The tour features a live guide available in multiple languages, wheelchair accessibility, and a private group option for a personalized experience.
- The tour provides an immersive cultural experience, including iconic landmarks, traditional Turkish cuisine, and the lively atmosphere of the Sultanahmet district.
Tour Overview

This all-inclusive Old Istanbul Tour for Groups from the Cruise Port provides an extensive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks and cultural heritage.
Lasting 8 hours, the tour covers key attractions like Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar. Guests enjoy skip-the-line access, guided tours, and a traditional Turkish lunch.
Explore Istanbul’s iconic landmarks over 8 hours with skip-the-line access, guided tours, and a traditional Turkish lunch.
The tour price starts at $141.75 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Multilingual live guides are available, and the tour is wheelchair accessible.
A private group option is also offered for those seeking a more personalized experience.
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Itinerary Highlights

The Old Istanbul Tour for Groups from the Cruise Port takes visitors on an extensive journey through the city’s iconic landmarks and cultural heritage.
It begins with a guided tour of the Topkapi Palace, a magnificent Ottoman imperial residence, for 3 hours. Next, the tour explores the Hagia Sophia, an architectural marvel, for 1 hour.
Visitors then visit the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, for 50 minutes. The tour continues through the Sultanahmet District and Square for 45 and 20 minutes, respectively.
Finally, the Grand Bazaar, a bustling marketplace, is explored for 1 hour before enjoying a 45-minute lunch at a local restaurant.
Tour Features

The Old Istanbul Tour for Groups offers a range of convenient features to enhance the overall experience.
The tour features a live guide available in multiple languages, including English, Russian, Spanish, and Italian, allowing for seamless communication. Guests can enjoy skip-the-line access through a separate entrance, saving valuable time.
The tour is also wheelchair accessible, accommodating visitors with mobility needs. Plus, a private group option is available for those seeking a more personalized experience.
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Live tour guide in multiple languages
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Skip-the-line access through a separate entrance
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Wheelchair accessible
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Private group option available
Cultural Experience

Exploring iconic landmarks, including the renowned Hagia Sophia, the grand Topkapi Palace, and the bustling Grand Bazaar, immerses guests in the rich history and vibrant local culture of Istanbul.
Visitors can savor traditional Turkish cuisine, such as kebabs and meze, while discovering the lively atmosphere of the Sultanahmet district, home to the iconic Blue Mosque and the Basilica Cistern.
The tour provides an authentic cultural experience, allowing guests to enjoy the traditions and heritage that have shaped this ancient city.
More Great Tours NearbyInclusions

The tour includes a professional guide who provides commentary throughout the experience.
The package also includes:
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Transportation with pickup and drop-off
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Lunch at a local restaurant
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Admission tickets to the museums and sites visited
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City taxes and fees
The inclusions ensure a hassle-free, all-inclusive tour of Old Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, immersing participants in the rich history and local culture.
Travelers can relax and enjoy the experience without worrying about additional costs or logistics.
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Pickup and Drop-off

One of the key conveniences of this Old Istanbul tour is the pickup and drop-off service. Guests will be picked up directly from the Galata Port Istanbul, eliminating the need for additional transportation arrangements. At the end of the tour, they will be dropped off back at the port, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience.
| Pickup Location | Pickup Time | Drop-off Location |
| ————— | ———– | —————– |
| Galata Port Istanbul | 9:00 AM | Galata Port Istanbul |
| Galata Port Istanbul | 10:00 AM | Galata Port Istanbul |
| Galata Port Istanbul | 11:00 AM | Galata Port Istanbul |
This convenient pickup and drop-off service allows guests to focus on the tour and enjoy the rich cultural experiences of Old Istanbul.
Pricing and Booking

This Old Istanbul tour offers a range of pricing options to suit different group sizes and budgets.
The base price starts at $141.75 per person, making it an affordable choice for groups. Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, allowing them to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Plus, the "Reserve now & pay later" option enables travelers to secure their spot without an upfront payment. The private group option is also available for those seeking a more customized experience.
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Base price: $141.75 per person
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
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"Reserve now & pay later" booking option
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Private group option available
Cancellation Policy

Although the Old Istanbul Tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, guests should be aware of the full cancellation policy. The tour operator enforces strict cancellation rules to maintain smooth operations. Guests can cancel or modify their reservations without penalty up to 24 hours prior to the tour start time. However, cancellations made within 24 hours are subject to a 100% charge. The table below outlines the cancellation policy in detail:
| Cancellation Window | Refund Percentage |
| — | — |
| More than 24 hours | 100% |
| Within 24 hours | 0% |
| No-shows | 0% |
Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
The tour doesn’t specify a maximum group size. However, it offers a private group option, which suggests the tour can accommodate larger groups. The tour is designed for groups, though the exact maximum size isn’t provided.
Can the Tour Be Customized for Specific Interests?
The tour can be customized to accommodate specific interests. Guests can focus on certain sites or activities based on their preferences, such as more time at the Grand Bazaar or a private cooking class. The tour operator is flexible in tailoring the experience.
What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Mosques?
When visiting mosques, modest dress is required. Shoulders, knees, and ankles should be covered. Women must cover their heads with a scarf. Visitors should remove their shoes before entering the prayer areas.
Can Participants Take Photographs Inside the Topkapi Palace?
Participants can generally take photographs inside Topkapi Palace, but they should avoid using flash and refrain from taking photos in certain restricted areas. The tour guide will provide instructions on appropriate photography during the visit.
Are There Any Additional Safety Precautions Due to COVID-19?
The tour operator has implemented additional COVID-19 safety measures, including requiring masks, providing hand sanitizer, and limiting group sizes. Participants should check the latest guidelines and requirements prior to the tour.
The Sum Up
The all-inclusive Old Istanbul Tour offers a comprehensive and convenient way for cruise ship passengers to explore the city’s rich history and culture. With skip-the-line access to iconic attractions, a guided exploration of the Grand Bazaar, and a traditional Turkish lunch, this tour provides a seamless and immersive experience. The expertise of a live guide and the tour’s inclusions make it an attractive option for groups looking to make the most of their time in Istanbul.
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