Cruise ship passengers seeking an immersive cultural experience in Istanbul can’t go wrong with the private guided Old Istanbul tour from Galataport. This 6-hour adventure showcases the city’s iconic landmarks, providing deep insights into its rich heritage. With knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation, travelers will discover the grandeur of Topkapi Palace, the architectural marvel of Hagia Sophia, and the bustling energy of the Grand Bazaar. The tour’s flexibility ensures a seamless and memorable day, leaving visitors eager to further explore the wonders of this ancient city.

Contents show

Key Points

Private guided tour of key historical sites in Old Istanbul, including Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and Grand Bazaar.
Pickup and drop-off at Galataport, the cruise ship terminal, for a seamless sightseeing experience.
Guided tours with additional fees for certain sites like Topkapi Palace and Basilica Cistern.
Comfortable air-conditioned van transportation and a 5-star rating based on customer feedback.
Opportunity to shop for souvenirs at the Grand Bazaar during the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This private guided tour of Old Istanbul offers an opportunity to explore the city’s historic sites and landmarks.

Priced at $163.56 per person, the 6-hour tour provides a comprehensive experience with stops at renowned attractions like Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the Grand Bazaar.

With language options in Spanish, English, and Russian, the tour caters to a diverse audience.

Plus, the tour features free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later policy, providing flexibility for travelers.

Transportation is included, with air-conditioned vans ensuring a comfortable journey across the Sultanahmet District and other key locations.

Enjoying having a local guide? These other guided experiences in Istanbul might interest you

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with pickup at Galataport, where the guide will be waiting with a sign bearing the traveler’s name.

The first stop is Topkapi Palace, with a guided tour lasting 1.5 hours for an additional fee. Next, the group visits Hagia Sophia for a 50-minute guided tour, also with an extra fee.

Topkapi Palace features a 1.5-hour guided tour for an additional fee, followed by a 50-minute guided tour of Hagia Sophia, also with an extra cost.

The Basilica Cistern follows, with a 45-minute guided tour and additional cost. The Sultan Ahmed Mosque receives a 30-minute guided tour.

After a 45-minute break in Sultanahmet Square, the group explores the Sultanahmet District for 30 minutes.

The tour culminates with a 1-hour guided visit to the Grand Bazaar.

Transportation

Return transportation is included in the tour package, allowing for a seamless experience from start to finish. Guests will travel in an air-conditioned van for maximum comfort throughout the day. The tour offers two convenient drop-off locations at the end of the tour:

| Drop-Off Location | Address |

|——————-|———|

| Galata Port Istanbul | Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa Mh., 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey |

| Galataport İstanbul | Meclis-i Mebusan Cd. No:35, 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey |

This private tour is tailored to your group’s needs, ensuring a personalized and efficient sightseeing experience in the heart of Old Istanbul.

Tour Features

Private activity tailored to your group, the tour offers an opportunity to shop for souvenirs at the Grand Bazaar.

Guided by a professional, guests will gain expertise and insights into the historical sites visited, including Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, and the Sultan Ahmed Mosque.

With museum tickets included for sites with extra fees, the tour provides a hassle-free experience.

Guests can expect a comfortable, air-conditioned van transportation, with two convenient drop-off locations at the end of the tour.

More Great Tours Nearby

Customer Experience

Based on the 5-star rating and positive review, the tour seems to have provided an exceptional customer experience. Customers have praised the tour’s flexibility, comfort, and the expertise of the guides. The table below highlights some key aspects of the customer feedback:

| Feedback | Rating |

|———-|——–|

| Flexibility | Excellent |

| Comfort | Very Good |

| Guide Knowledge | Outstanding |

The review from David, who appreciated the historical insights and ease of the tour from pickup to drop-off, further confirms the positive customer experience. The tour appears to have exceeded expectations and provided a memorable experience for participants.

Like being on the water? We've looked at these other boat experiences in Istanbul

Exploring Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace, the former imperial residence of the Ottoman sultans, stands as a remarkable testament to the grandeur and opulence of the Ottoman Empire.

As part of the private guided tour, visitors explore this iconic landmark, guided by a knowledgeable expert. The tour delves into the palace’s history, architecture, and the daily lives of the sultans who once reigned within its walls.

Visitors marvel at the intricate tiles, stunning courtyards, and the renowned Harem, where the sultan’s wives and concubines resided.

The guided tour provides fascinating insights, enabling guests to enjoy the rich tapestry of Ottoman history.

Discovering Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia stands as a stunning architectural masterpiece, a testament to the convergence of Byzantine and Ottoman legacies.

Guided by an expert, visitors will explore the vast interior, marveling at the intricate mosaics and soaring domed ceiling. The guide will provide insights into the history and significance of this iconic structure, which has served as a church, mosque, and now museum.

With an extra fee, guests can delve deeper into the Hagia Sophia’s rich past and admire its architectural grandeur. The guided tour offers an immersive experience, allowing travelers to fully appreciate the cultural and historical importance of this remarkable site.

Visiting the Basilica Cistern

Situated just a short distance from the iconic Hagia Sophia, the Basilica Cistern offers visitors a captivating journey into Istanbul’s Byzantine past. Descending underground, guests are greeted by the vast expanse of this ancient cistern, its intricately carved columns creating a serene and atmospheric ambiance.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Size | 105 meters long, 65 meters wide, and 4.80 meters deep |

| Columns | 336 marble columns, each standing 9 meters tall |

| Highlights | Medusa-head column bases, central walkway, serene lighting |

With a guided tour, visitors can explore the Basilica Cistern’s hidden depths, marveling at its impressive engineering and the haunting beauty of this subterranean wonder.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Group Size for This Private Tour?

This private tour allows for a flexible group size tailored to your specific needs. The tour is conducted on a private basis, providing a personalized experience catered to your group.

Can We Customize the Itinerary Based on Our Preferences?

The tour is private, so guests can customize the itinerary based on their preferences. The tour provider will work with the group to create an itinerary that meets their specific interests and needs within the tour’s overall scope.

Are There Any Food/Bathroom Breaks Included During the Tour?

The tour includes a 45-minute break at Sultanahmet Square where travelers can rest, explore the area, and potentially purchase refreshments. Bathroom breaks are also provided throughout the tour at the various sites visited.

Can We Take Photographs Inside the Historic Sites?

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the historic sites visited during the tour. However, visitors should follow any specific rules or restrictions in place at each location to respect the sites and other guests.

Is There an Additional Fee for the Topkapi Palace Guided Tour?

Yes, there is an additional fee for the Topkapi Palace guided tour. According to the itinerary highlights, the Topkapi Palace guided tour lasts 1.5 hours and has an extra fee beyond the overall tour price.

The Sum Up

This private guided tour of Old Istanbul provides cruise ship passengers with a comprehensive and hassle-free experience. Exploring iconic landmarks like Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the Grand Bazaar, travelers gain deep insights into the city’s rich history through knowledgeable guides. With comfortable transportation and flexibility, this tour is an excellent choice for making the most of a day in Istanbul.