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Istanbul Highlight Shore Excursion for Cruise Ship Passengers

5.03 reviewsHagia Sophia (Ayasofya)

  • 5 hours
  • Free cancellation up to 24h before
  • Guided in English
  • Mobile ticket

Highlights

Experience the enchantment of Istanbul with the ease of stress-free exploration, with a convenient port pickup and drop-off. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Istanbul's history and culture as our knowledgeable guide fills each stop with fascinating insights and anecdotes. You'll have the opportunity to truly savor the unique sights, sounds, and flavors of this captivating city. Marvel at the iconic Hagia Sophia, where you'll have the option for an immersive interior visit. Step back in time at the historic Hippodrome, before being captivated by the architectural splendor of the Blue Mosque. Conclude your journey with the ultimate shopping adventure at the Grand Bazaar, where centuries of tradition await your discovery amidst its bustling lanes and vibrant stalls.

Inclusions

What's included

  • Full refund if your ship cannot dock
  • Professional, licensed English-speaking guide
  • Guaranteed return to ship on time
  • Modern, comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
  • 24/7 Customer support, assistance with other arrangements and tours
  • Port pickup and dropoff

What's not

  • Food and drinks
  • Gratuities
  • Entrance fee to Haga Sophia (optional)
  • Topkapi Palace visit

Itinerary

  1. Admire the Topkapi Palace from the outside. It's the stunning exterior of this historic residence, a home to the Ottoman Sultans for over 380 years. While interior visits are not available during this tour, you can still marvel at the breathtaking architectural designs and imagine the grandeur within. Learn about one of the world's largest diamonds, the Spoonmaker’s Diamond, and explore the rich history of this iconic palace.

    1 h

  2. Behold the magnificence of Hagia Sophia, a true masterpiece of architecture that stands as a witness to the rise and fall of empires. If you choose to explore its grand interior, immerse yourself in the rich history that unfolds within its walls.

    1 h

  3. Prepare to be enchanted by the mesmerizing Blue Mosque, a symbol of grace and beauty. Adorned with striking blue tiles that dance with the sunlight, the mosque offers a serene and spiritual experience.

    1 h

  4. Transport yourself back in time as you step into Hippodrome Square, where echoes of ancient chariot races and imperial gatherings still linger. Feel the energy of the past in this historic heart of Istanbul.

    1 h

  5. Lose yourself in the bustling alleys of the Grand Bazaar, a vibrant labyrinth of colors, scents, and sounds. Discover centuries of trading traditions and find an array of exotic treasures, from textiles to spices.

    1 h

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, for a full refund.

Reviews

5.0

  • 53
  • 40
  • 30
  • 20
  • 10

Ratings come from 3 reviews collected by our booking partner. They are travellers' own words, in the order they were written — never reordered to flatter the experience.

Know before you go

Meeting point
Your guide and driver will be waiting for you holding a sign that reads "VEXPERIO", directly at the port.
Pickup
Everyone meets at the starting point; there is no pickup.
Ticket type
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group size
Up to 25 travellers
Operated by
Vexperio
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

How it compares in Istanbul

  • Its from-price is 72% above the median of the 3649 experiences we list in Istanbul.
  • Its length is typical for the group.
  • By number of reviews it ranks 1609 of 3649.
  • The operator lists free cancellation on it.

About Istanbul

Istanbul straddles Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus, with Byzantine and Ottoman monuments, busy bazaars and ferries crossing between continents.

The historic peninsula holds the greatest landmarks. Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the Hippodrome face each other in Sultanahmet, the Basilica Cistern lies beneath the streets, and Topkapı Palace spreads across the hill above the Golden Horn. A short walk away, the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar have traded for centuries, and Süleymaniye Mosque, built by the great Ottoman architect Sinan, crowns one of the city's seven hills.

Top-ranked sights in Istanbul: Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi), Bosphorus, Bosphorus Bridge (Bogazici Koprusu).

See all 3649 experiences in Istanbul

Special offers in Istanbul

Was/now prices come from the operator, never from us.

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