This guided tour offers an exclusive chance for cruise passengers and those with limited time to explore Istanbul’s top attractions. By skipping the lines, travelers can maximize their sightseeing and enjoy the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. From the iconic Hagia Sophia to the bustling Grand Bazaar, this private tour promises an unforgettable Istanbul experience tailored to each guest’s preferences. With efficient transportation and a knowledgeable local guide, the tour ensures a seamless and memorable journey through this captivating city.
Key Points

- This private tour offers skip-the-line access to top attractions like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, saving time for cruise ship passengers with limited time.
- The tour includes a Bosphorus Strait cruise and visits to iconic sites like the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar, providing a comprehensive Istanbul experience.
- The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for families, catering to diverse travelers with limited mobility.
- The tour is led by a local guide, ensuring an insightful and authentic exploration of Istanbul’s rich history and culture.
- The tour is competitively priced, with inclusions like transportation, skip-the-line tickets, and insurance, making it a best-selling option for visitors.
Tour Overview
This private tour of Istanbul allows visitors to explore the city’s key attractions with the guidance of a knowledgeable local.
The tour includes visits to the Hippodrome, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar. Guests will also cruise the Bosphorus Strait, separating Europe and Asia.
This experience is ideal for cruise ship passengers or those with limited time in the city, as it provides a rundown of Istanbul’s most iconic sights.
The tour ensures a hassle-free experience with skip-the-line access to Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia.
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Included Highlights

The private Istanbul tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks.
You’ll visit the Hippodrome, the former center of Byzantine public life and the site of chariot races.
Next, marvel at the architectural masterpiece that’s the Hagia Sophia, a former church and mosque now transformed into a museum.
Discover the serene beauty of the Blue Mosque with its stunning interior.
Explore the opulent Topkapi Palace, the former home of Ottoman sultans.
Finally, learn about the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest covered markets.
Pricing and Inclusions

The Istanbul private tour is priced from $105.90 per person, though the exact cost varies based on the size of your group. This fee covers local taxes, a licensed tour guide, and insurance. However, it excludes personal expenses, driver and guide tips, food and drinks, and entrance fees.
| Included | Excluded |
|---|---|
| Local taxes | Personal expenses |
| Licensed tour guide | Driver and guide tips |
| Insurance | Food and drinks |
| Entrance fees |
The Topkapi Palace entrance fee is 2000 TRY, and the Hagia Sophia entrance fee is 25 €. Your guide will purchase these skip-the-line tickets for you.
Pickup and Drop-off Details

Pickup for the Istanbul private tour takes place at Galataport, located in the heart of the city.
From there, guests will take public transportation – the tram – to explore the top sights. This efficient mode of transport ensures a timely return to the cruise ship.
The tour is designed to maximize the time spent at each landmark, with skip-the-line access to Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia.
At the end of the tour, travelers will board the tram again for drop-off back at Galataport, guaranteed to return on time to their cruise ship.
Accessibility and Participation

This Istanbul private tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing most travelers to participate. Infants must sit on laps during the tour.
The tour is suitable for:
- Wheelchair users
- Families with young children
- Travelers with limited mobility
- Those looking for an exclusive private experience
The tour guarantees a prompt return to the cruise ship, ensuring you don’t miss your departure.
With flexible booking options and high customer ratings, this is an excellent choice for making the most of your time in Istanbul.
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Booking Information

Customers receive confirmation at the time of booking for this Istanbul private tour. Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later, making planning easier.
With free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour, travelers have peace of mind. This highly-rated tour boasts 10 positive reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor, averaging 4.7 out of 5 stars.
Booking is simple and secure, ensuring a hassle-free experience from start to finish. Whether visiting Istanbul on a cruise or with limited time, this private tour is a top-selling option worth considering.
Cancellation Policy

With free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the experience starts, travelers can plan their Istanbul tour with peace of mind.
This flexible policy allows them to book with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed. The tour also offers a "reserve now, pay later" option, making it even easier to secure their spot.
Plus, the tour has received an impressive 4.7 rating from Viator and TripAdvisor, based on 10 reviews, giving potential customers assurance of a top-notch experience.
Cancellation details and other booking information are clearly outlined, ensuring a stress-free planning process.
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before tour
- "Reserve now, pay later" option available
- 4.7 rating from 10 reviews on Viator and TripAdvisor
- Stress-free booking process with clear details
Customer Reviews

What’re travelers saying about this private tour of Istanbul?
With 10 reviews and a stellar 4.7 out of 5-star rating on Viator and Tripadvisor, it’s clear this tour is a hit. Customers rave about the knowledgeable guide who brings the city’s rich history to life.
They appreciate the convenience of skip-the-line tickets and the comfortable private transportation. Many highlight the tour’s flexibility in tailoring the itinerary to their interests.
Reviewers also note the tour’s excellent value, given the number of iconic sites visited. Travelers consistently describe this Istanbul private tour as an outstanding and memorable experience.
Things To Know
What Types of Payment Methods Are Accepted?
The tour accepts a variety of payment methods, including credit and debit cards. Customers can reserve the tour now and pay later, providing flexibility in their payment options. Specific details on accepted payment methods are not provided in the given information.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?
Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to meet the traveler’s preferences. The private nature of the tour allows for flexibility in selecting the attractions visited and the duration spent at each site.
Is the Tour Guide Fluent in English?
The tour guide is fluent in English, enabling seamless communication and a personalized experience throughout the private tour. Clients can expect clear explanations and insightful commentary from the knowledgeable guide.
How Long Does the Full Tour Take?
The full private tour of Istanbul with a guide and car typically lasts around 6-8 hours, covering the key attractions like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. The Bosphorus cruise adds an additional 1-2 hours to the tour.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but they’re excluded from the package price. The tour focuses on visiting Istanbul’s top attractions, with transportation and a private guide provided.
Sum Up
This captivating Istanbul tour offers a hassle-free experience for cruise passengers and those with limited time. With skip-the-line access, travelers can explore the city’s iconic landmarks, from the Hagia Sophia to the Grand Bazaar, accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide. The efficient transportation and timely return to the cruise ship ensure an unforgettable adventure while maximizing sightseeing opportunities.
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