Istanbul Private Shore Excursion: City Highlights by Luxury Van

1. Galataport
   30m
   Begin your private Istanbul shore excursion with pickup from Galataport or your confirmed meeting location. Travel between the city’s historic and modern districts in an air-conditioned luxury van with a separate driver.
   The itinerary order and time at each stop may change according to traffic, prayer times, attraction opening hours, and your available time ashore. Hagia Sophia admission is not included, and lunch and optional refreshments should be paid separately unless stated otherwise.
2. Hippodrome
   1h
   Explore the historic Hippodrome, once the center of public life and chariot racing in Byzantine Constantinople. See monuments including the Obelisk of Theodosius, Serpent Column, Walled Obelisk, and German Fountain while learning about the ceremonies and events once held here.
3. Blue Mosque
   1h
   Visit the Blue Mosque, one of Istanbul’s best-known examples of Ottoman architecture. Admire its domes, minarets, courtyard, and blue İznik tile decoration while learning about its history and continuing role as a place of worship.
   Interior access is subject to prayer times, religious services, visitor rules, and conditions on the day.
4. Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
   1h · Admission ticket not included
   Discover the history of Hagia Sophia, a landmark that has served as a Byzantine cathedral, an Ottoman mosque, a museum, and today a functioning mosque.
   
   An exterior visit is available without an additional entrance fee. Travelers who wish to visit the accessible interior areas may purchase their admission ticket separately. Your guide will assist you with purchasing the ticket on the spot and will accompany you during the interior visit, providing explanations throughout. Interior access is subject to current visitor rules, opening conditions, and the time available.
5. Sultanahmet Square
   1h
   Take a break at a local restaurant in the Sultanahmet area. Choose from traditional Turkish dishes such as kebabs, mezes, and other regional specialties, depending on the restaurant and availability.
   Your guide can help explain the menu and suggest local dishes. Lunch and drinks are paid separately unless they are specifically listed under What’s Included.
6. Grand Bazaar
   1h 30m
   Walk through the covered lanes of the Grand Bazaar and see Turkish carpets, jewelry, ceramics, leather goods, textiles, lanterns, and souvenirs. Your guide can help you understand the market’s layout and history while giving you time to browse.
   Shopping is optional, and no purchase is required.
7. Eminonu Square
   1h 30m
   Experience the busy waterfront atmosphere of Eminönü. See the New Mosque, explore the colorful Spice Bazaar area, and enjoy views toward the Galata Bridge, ferries, and the Golden Horn.
   Food, spices, sweets, and other purchases are optional and paid separately.

Pickup details

Your guide will be waiting in Galataport terminal area, displaying your name
Before the tour, we will confirm your pickup point, ship name, meeting time, and available time ashore with you via the Viator chat platform and the phone number you provided.
This is a private experience for your group only. Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned luxury van with a separate driver.
Shopping is optional, and the route can be adjusted according to your available time and interests.
Return transportation to the cruise port is included and planned around your ship schedule.

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels