PRIVATE TOUR: Highlights of Istanbul Old-City

About this tour

Embark on an extraordinary journey with our LOCAL & LICENSED TOUR GUIDES to uncover the awe-inspiring wonders of HAGIA SOPHIA and TOPKAPI PALACE, both distinguished as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Your exploration also extends to the revered BLUE MOSQUE, which stands as one of Istanbul’s most iconic and cherished attractions. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of history and culture, and let our guides unveil the city’s treasures in an unforgettable experience.

We warmly welcome you in the Cruise Port of Istanbul! Our team will be eagerly waiting to greet you at the exit gate of the Cruise Port with a personalized sign that bears your name. Once we meet, your professional guide will be there to assist you throughout your journey and provide you with an unforgettable experience. From there, we will escort you to the Tram where you will have a comfortable and enjoyable approx. 15-minute ride to the Old City.

During the tram ride, you can immerse yourself in the local lifestyle and witness the daily life of the locals, which will give you a deeper understanding of the local culture. Additionally, your guide will begin providing you with essential information about Turkey, including the region you are visiting at that moment.

During our tour, we will visit the places below;

HAGIA SOPHIA:The Hagia Sophia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important architectural and historical buildings in the world. It was originally built as a cathedral in the 6th century, later converted to a mosque in the 15th century, converted to a museum in the 20th century, and again to a Mosque in the 21st century. It is known for its stunning architecture, including its massive dome and intricate mosaics. It has also been a symbol of both Eastern Orthodox and Islamic cultures, making it a fascinating place to visit and learn about the history of Istanbul and the Byzantine Empire.

TOPKAPI PALACE: The Topkapi Palace is a must-see historical site in Istanbul, Turkey. It was the primary residence of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. The palace is a complex of buildings with several courtyards, gardens, and museums filled with a vast collection of Ottoman art, jewelry, and manuscripts. It also offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Ottoman sultans and court, making it a fascinating place to visit and learn about the Ottoman Empire’s history.

BLUE MOSQUE: The Sultanahmet Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, is a must-see historical and architectural site in Istanbul, Turkey. It is one of the most famous mosques in the world and the only mosque in Turkey with six minarets. The mosque is known for its intricate tile work and calligraphy, as well as its large central dome and cascading domes. It was built in the early 17th century and is still an active mosque today, making it a place of religious and cultural significance. It’s a stunning example of Ottoman architecture and an important symbol of the Islamic faith.

ROMAN HIPPODROME: The Roman Hippodrome in Sultanahmet is an ancient chariot racing stadium in Istanbul. It was built during the Roman period in the 4th century AD and was once the center of Byzantine civic life. It was used for chariot races, athletic competitions, and public events. Visitors can see the remains of the obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column, and the Walled Obelisk, which are some of the remaining monuments from the Hippodrome. It’s an important historical and archeological site that offers insight into the Roman and Byzantine eras, and an important architectural and cultural heritage of Istanbul.

At the end of our tour, we return to the Cruise Port according to your ONBOARD TIME!

PLEASE NOTE THAT: There are several Ships with different arrival and departure times. We carefully check all the timings, confirm with the passengers, and coordinate our return time to Cruise Port.

WE ASSURE YOU THAT OUR TOURS GUARANTEE AN ON-TIME RETURN TO THE SHIP!