Istanbul: Private 7 to 9 Hours Fully Guided Shore Excursion

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the ancient wonders of Istanbul with a private shore excursion. This customizable tour promises to unveil the city’s rich history and vibrant culture, guiding you through iconic landmarks such as the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Hagia Sophia. With a licensed guide by your side, you’ll navigate the bustling Grand Bazaar, enjoying the sights, sounds, and flavors that make Istanbul a truly captivating destination. Whether you’re a history buff or seeking a unique cultural experience, this tour offers a…

This experience made our list of the 16 Best Shore Excursions In Istanbul.

Key Points

• This private Istanbul shore excursion offers a 7 to 9-hour fully guided tour to explore the city’s top landmarks, including the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Hagia Sophia.
• The tour is priced at $129 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours, and includes pickup/drop-off at Galata Port and air-conditioned transportation.
• The tour offers a flexible and customizable itinerary, allowing visitors to tailor the duration at each attraction based on their interests.
• A licensed English-speaking guide provides in-depth knowledge and insights into the historical and cultural significance of the sites visited.
• The tour is not suitable for individuals with back or heart problems, wheelchair users, or those with low fitness levels.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

Offering a private 7 to 9 hours guided shore excursion from Galata Port, Istanbul, this tour is priced from $129.00 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The flexible 8-hour itinerary includes live English-speaking guide services. Highlights include a short exploration of the Hippodrome, guided tours of the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Hagia Sophia, as well as shopping at the Grand Bazaar.

Itineraries may be subject to change based on museum closures or other factors.

The tour includes port pickup/drop-off and air-conditioned minivan transportation, but excludes food, drinks, tips, and entrance fees for Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia.

Itinerary Highlights

The private guided shore excursion in Istanbul features a captivating itinerary that highlights the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Visitors can explore the historical Hippodrome, admire the architectural grandeur of the Blue Mosque, explore the opulent Topkapi Palace, and marvel at the magnificent Hagia Sophia, all while accompanied by a knowledgeable English-speaking guide.

After the guided tours, guests will have the opportunity to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, a renowned shopping destination.

The flexible itinerary allows for adjustments based on museum closures or other factors, ensuring a seamless and personalized experience for each participant.

Inclusion and Exclusion

This private guided shore excursion in Istanbul includes pickup and drop-off at Galata Port, air-conditioned minivan transportation, and a licensed tour guide to lead the flexible itinerary.

However, it excludes food, drinks, tips, and entrance fees to Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia, which visitors must pay separately. The Topkapi Palace entrance fee is 1500 TRY, while the Hagia Sophia entrance fee is 25 EUR.

Plus, this tour isn’t suitable for individuals with back or heart problems, wheelchair users, or those with low fitness levels.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat and camera, and follow the smart casual dress code, which requires covering shoulders and knees for mosque visits.

Dress Code and Recommendations

A smart casual dress code is required for this private guided shore excursion in Istanbul, with loose clothing that covers the shoulders and knees necessary for mosque visits.

To ensure a comfortable and appropriate experience, visitors should bring:

• Comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes

• A hat or sun visor to protect from the sun

• Sunscreen to shield the skin

• A camera to capture the stunning sights

Shorts, short skirts, sleeveless shirts, and tight clothing aren’t allowed.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

Travelers have shared their positive experiences with this private guided shore excursion in Istanbul, providing an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 2 reviews.

Guests praised the tour’s seamless coordination and the expertise of the English-speaking guide. One reviewer remarked on the guide’s deep knowledge, noting they ‘provided fascinating insights into the city’s historical and cultural significance.’

Another highlighted the flexibility of the itinerary, appreciating the ability to customize the tour to their interests.

With its comprehensive coverage of top attractions like the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Hagia Sophia, this excursion offers an exceptional way to maximize one’s time in Istanbul.

Duration and Pricing

The private guided shore excursion in Istanbul offers a flexible 8-hour itinerary, allowing visitors to explore the city’s top attractions at their own pace.

Priced at $129 per person, this all-inclusive tour includes:

• Pickup and drop-off at the Galata Port

• Transportation in an air-conditioned minivan

• Services of a licensed, English-speaking guide

• Flexibility to adjust the itinerary as needed

The tour offers exceptional value, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or seeking a deeper dive into Istanbul’s rich history and culture, this private excursion provides a personalized and convenient way to make the most of your time in the city.

Pickup and Drop-off

The tour begins with a pickup from Galata Port, ensuring a seamless start to the Istanbul shore excursion. Your expert guide will greet you at the port and escort you to a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan.

This private transportation will be your mode of travel throughout the day, allowing you to navigate the bustling city with ease. At the end of the tour, your guide will return you directly to the port, making it a hassle-free experience from start to finish.

With the pickup and drop-off taken care of, you can sit back, relax, and learn about the rich history and vibrant culture of Istanbul during this guided shore excursion.

Tour Flexibility and Customization

One key aspect of this private guided shore excursion is its flexible and customizable nature. Guests can work closely with their knowledgeable guide to tailor the itinerary based on their personal interests and preferences, ensuring a truly bespoke experience in Istanbul.

The itinerary can be adjusted in several ways:

• Altering the duration spent at each attraction

• Rearranging the order of sites visited

• Adding or removing certain sites from the schedule

• Incorporating special requests, such as focusing on a particular era or architectural style

This level of flexibility allows travelers to make the most of their limited time in port and craft a tour that aligns perfectly with their sightseeing goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Tour Be Arranged for a Smaller Group?

Yes, the tour can accommodate smaller groups. The private shore excursion provides a flexible itinerary and offers the option to customize the experience for a smaller party, ensuring a more personalized and intimate sightseeing experience.

Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary Further?

Yes, the tour offers flexible itinerary options. Customers can customize the itinerary to their interests and adjust the time spent at each attraction within the 8-hour tour duration.

Are There Any Discounts or Promotions Available?

The tour provider doesn’t currently offer any discounts or promotions, but they may have occasional special offers. It’s best to check their website or contact them directly for the latest information on any available deals.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, guests can bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. The tour operator encourages self-catering to enhance the overall experience, though some food and beverages may also be available for purchase during the tour.

How Strict Is the Dress Code Enforcement During the Tour?

The dress code is strictly enforced during the tour. Visitors must wear loose clothing covering their shoulders and knees, especially for visits to the Blue Mosque. Shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless shirts are not allowed.

The Sum Up

Enjoy Istanbul’s captivating history and vibrant culture with this private guided shore excursion.

Explore iconic landmarks, shop at the Grand Bazaar, and enjoy flexible customization to suit your interests.

With convenient transportation, a licensed guide, and free cancellation, this tour offers a comprehensive and hassle-free way to experience the city’s rich heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: