Istanbul Highlight Shore Excursion: City of Treasures Tour

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Exploring the rich history and vibrant culture of Istanbul is a captivating experience. The Istanbul Highlight Shore Excursion: City of Treasures Tour offers a comprehensive 5-hour journey, taking visitors through the city’s renowned landmarks. From the opulent Topkapi Palace to the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, this tour immerses participants in the essence of Istanbul. With professional guidance, port pickup, and customizable options, the tour ensures an unforgettable adventure. What makes this excursion truly remarkable is the opportunity to uncover the city’s treasures and gain a deeper understanding of its enduring legacy.

Key Points

Istanbul Highlight Shore Excursion: City of Treasures Tour - Key Points

  • A 5-hour comprehensive tour exploring Istanbul’s historical and cultural highlights, including Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar.
  • Discounted pricing ranging from $94.21 to $125.61 per person, with a 25% savings and convenient port pickup and dropoff.
  • Guided by a professional, licensed English-speaking guide to ensure an informative and engaging experience.
  • Flexible cancellation policy allows for full refund up to 24 hours in advance.
  • Optional private group tours available for a more personalized sightseeing experience.
You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

Istanbul Highlight Shore Excursion: City of Treasures Tour - Tour Overview

The Istanbul Highlight Shore Excursion: City of Treasures Tour offers a comprehensive 5-hour exploration of Istanbul’s renowned historical and cultural landmarks, providing visitors with a captivating journey through the city’s rich heritage.

Priced from $94.21 to $125.61 per person, the tour features a 25% savings and includes convenient port pickup and dropoff.

Plus, a professional, licensed English-speaking guide accompanies you throughout the experience.

With the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and no upfront payment required, this tour makes for a flexible and accessible way to discover the wonders of Istanbul during your shore excursion.

Pricing and Savings

At a starting price of $125.61 per person, the Istanbul Highlight Shore Excursion tour offers savings of up to 25%, bringing the cost down to just $94.21 per participant. This discounted rate makes the tour an excellent value for travelers looking to explore the highlights of Istanbul during their shore excursion.

With a duration of 5 hours, the tour provides a rundown of the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar.

What’s more, the tour features convenient port pickup and dropoff, as well as a professional, licensed English-speaking guide to ensure a seamless and informative experience.

Itinerary and Attractions

Commencing at the Istanbul Port entrance, the tour takes participants on an immersive journey through the city’s iconic landmarks, beginning with a guided exploration of the magnificent Topkapi Palace for 75 minutes.

Next, the group will visit:

  1. The Hagia Sophia, a 6th-century architectural masterpiece, for a 35-minute guided tour with an optional inside visit.

  2. The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, known for its blue Iznik tiles and six minarets, for 35 minutes of sightseeing.

  3. The Hippodrome, the center of ancient Constantinople’s events, for a 20-minute exploration of the historical site.

The tour concludes with a 1.5-hour shopping experience at the Grand Bazaar before returning to the Istanbul Port entrance.

Tour Highlights

Visitors can enjoy the convenience of port pickup and dropoff, allowing them to seamlessly transition between the cruise ship and the tour. Guests will admire the architectural marvels of Hagia Sophia, a 6th-century masterpiece, and the iconic Blue Mosque, renowned for its striking blue Iznik tiles and six minarets. The tour also includes a glimpse into ancient Constantinople’s events at the legendary Hippodrome.

Tour HighlightsDescription
Hagia SophiaGuided tour of this 6th-century architectural wonder
Blue MosqueExplore the mosque’s stunning blue Iznik tiles and six minarets
HippodromeDiscover the historical site that hosted ancient Constantinople’s events
Grand BazaarExperience the vibrant shopping district with over 4,000 shops
Port ConvenienceEnjoy seamless port pickup and dropoff for a hassle-free experience
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Included in the Tour

The tour includes a professional, licensed English-speaking guide who’ll accompany visitors throughout the journey. An air-conditioned vehicle provides comfortable transportation between the various sites. Guests also have the option to add the entrance fee to Hagia Sophia, which allows them to explore this remarkable 6th-century architectural masterpiece from the inside.

The tour’s inclusions feature:

  1. Port pickup and dropoff for convenient access.
  2. Entrance fee to Hagia Sophia (optional).
  3. Gratuities not included, allowing visitors to tip according to their satisfaction.

While food and drinks aren’t provided, the tour offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience that showcases Istanbul’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Meeting Point and Pickup

The guide and driver will typically hold a sign reading VEXPERIO at the port to meet guests for the Istanbul Highlight Shore Excursion. They’ll be waiting at the Istanbul port entrance to greet you and provide a smooth, convenient pickup.

Once everyone’s settled, the tour will depart for the first stop at Topkapi Palace, where you’ll embark on a guided tour. The itinerary’s subject to change, so be sure to check with the tour operator for any updates.

Also, if you’re traveling in a private group, that option’s available too. The tour’s offered in English and Spanish, so you can enjoy the experience in the language you’re most comfortable with.

Customization Options

If you’re looking for a more personalized experience, the tour operator offers private group options for the Istanbul Highlight Shore Excursion. This allows you to customize the itinerary and pace to better suit your interests and preferences.

Key benefits of the private group option include:

  1. Tailored Itinerary: Work with the tour operator to adjust the duration and focus of the tour to match your group’s needs.

  2. Flexible Scheduling: Depart at a time that works best for your group, rather than adhering to a set schedule.

  3. Personalized Attention: Enjoy a more intimate experience with your own private, licensed guide who can cater to your group’s specific interests.

Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or colleagues, the private group option ensures a truly bespoke Istanbul adventure.

Additional Information

Travelers can rest assured that the tour operator provides reliable transportation to and from the Istanbul port, ensuring a seamless start and end to their excursion. The itinerary is subject to change, so guests should be flexible and prepared for potential adjustments. Private group options are available for those seeking a more personalized experience. The tour is offered in English and Spanish, catering to the needs of various international travelers. While food and drinks are not included, guests are free to explore the vibrant Grand Bazaar and indulge in the local cuisine during their free time.

Additional Information
Meeting PointGuide and driver will hold a sign reading VEXPERIO at the port
ItinerariesSubject to change
Private Group OptionsAvailable
LanguagesEnglishSpanish
Food and DrinksNot Included

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to your preferences. The provider offers private group options, allowing you to tailor the itinerary to your interests and schedule. Just discuss your requirements with the tour operator.

How Long Does It Take to Get to the First Attraction?

The guide and driver will transport guests directly from the port entrance to the first attraction, Topkapi Palace, which takes around 15 minutes by air-conditioned vehicle. This efficient transfer ensures a seamless start to the day’s sightseeing.

Is There a Dress Code for Visiting the Mosques?

There is a dress code for visiting mosques in Istanbul. Visitors should wear modest clothing that covers the shoulders, arms, and legs. Women should also cover their heads with a scarf when entering the mosque.

Can I Leave the Group and Explore on My Own?

Participants are generally expected to stay with the group during the tour. However, some guides may allow brief periods of individual exploration if time permits and the group is informed. It’s best to check with the guide about any flexibility.

Are There Any Discounts for Seniors or Children?

Yes, this tour offers discounts for seniors and children. Seniors over 65 receive a 10% discount, and children under 12 receive a 20% discount off the regular tour price. Advance booking is recommended to secure these reduced rates.

The Sum Up

The Istanbul Highlight Shore Excursion: City of Treasures Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks, including Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the Blue Mosque.

With a vibrant shopping experience at the Grand Bazaar, this tour provides an unforgettable opportunity to take in Istanbul’s rich history and culture.

Convenient port pickup and customizable options ensure a seamless and memorable adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: