Private Istanbul Tour from Galataport Cruise Port
- 8 Hours
- Private Guided
- Medium
- All Year Round
- Historical
- ·
- City
- ·
- Cultural
- Couple
- ·
- Family
- ·
- Friends
Tour Description
Embark on an unforgettable voyage through the heart of two continents with our exclusive Private Istanbul Tour. From the moment we greet you at Galataport’s cruise terminal, you’ll be escorted in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan by your own expert local guide. Wander through the soaring columns and mosaics of Hagia Sophia, admire the intricate Iznik tiles of the Blue Mosque, and step back into Ottoman grandeur at Topkapi Palace. Stroll the labyrinthine alleys of the Grand Bazaar and inhale the heady aromas of the Spice Market. With a private tour, you set the pace—linger as long as you like before moving on to your next discovery.
Private Tour of Istanbul from Galataport Istanbul Cruise Port
Indulge in a tailor-made adventure designed around your interests and schedule. Your guide will share insider stories as you cross continents on the Galata Bridge, pause for panoramic Bosphorus views, and savor an authentic Turkish lunch at a restaurant overlooking the water. Enjoy complete flexibility: request extra time at the palace treasury, add a quick Bosphorus boat ride, or slip into a hidden courtyard mosque off the beaten path. This is Istanbul your way, in maximum comfort and privacy.
Skip-the-line admission to Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace
Enjoy exclusive, skip-the-line access to two of Istanbul’s crown jewels—Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace—so you can step directly past the crowds and into history. With your priority tickets in hand, you’ll breeze through the entrance gates and gain precious hours for in-depth exploration. Marvel at the soaring dome mosaics of Hagia Sophia without waiting in long ticket queues, then head straight into the opulent chambers and treasury of Topkapi Palace. This entry not only saves you time, but also ensures a more intimate experience—perfect for capturing stunning photos and soaking up every detail under the guidance of your expert local host.
Customizable for Cruise Timing
We understand cruise schedules are non-negotiable, so we’ll craft this tour to match your ship’s arrival and departure. Need an earlier start or a guaranteed return 30 minutes before cast-off? No problem. Simply let us know your cruise name and any special requests, and we’ll ensure your Istanbul experience is seamless and stress-free.
Pricing Note
Prices are calculated per person, based on a minimum of four adults. If your group is smaller or larger, we’ll provide a bespoke quote to reflect your party size. Complete our inquiry form to receive your personalized itinerary and exact rates.
Tour Details
Sights
- Istanbul
- ·
- Turkey
Highlights
Departure Location
Inclusions
Exclusions
Add-ons
Tour Program
08:00 Customizable Departure
Step off your ship and into the warm welcome of Istanbul. Your expert guide—holding a sign with your name—will greet you just outside the Galataport arrival hall. After a brief introduction and safety reminder, you’ll be escorted to your private, air-conditioned minivan parked nearby.
08:15 Scenic Drive toward Sultanahmet
Settle into your private, air-conditioned minivan and enjoy a brief, picturesque drive along the Bosphorus shore. As you head to the historic district, your guide will point out iconic landmarks—Galata Tower, the fishermen on Galata Bridge, and the modern waterfront—all while sharing insider anecdotes that set the stage for your day.
09:00 Skip-the-Line Visit: Hagia Sophia (1 hr)
Step straight past the crowds with your priority tickets and enter Justinian’s 6th-century masterpiece. Gaze up at the soaring central dome, glittering Byzantine mosaics and imperial medallions—an architectural marvel that reigned as the world’s largest cathedral for nearly a millennium.
10:15 Blue Mosque & Hippodrome (30 min + 15 min)
Cross the courtyard to the Blue Mosque, where six slender minarets frame a forest of Iznik tilework in calming blues and greens. After 30 minutes inside, wander over to the ancient Hippodrome to admire the Obelisk of Theodosius and the Serpent Column—remnants of chariot races and imperial pageantry. Feel free to ask your guide about the curious legends etched into these stones.
11:15 Topkapi Palace & Harem Quarter (1.5 hrs)
Enter the lavish world of the Ottoman sultans and explore winding courtyards, jeweled chambers and hidden viewpoints overlooking the Golden Horn. Peek into the Harem’s secluded quarters, where palace intrigue and royal secrets once unfolded. Your guide’s live commentary will bring to life stories of power, love and betrayal—no guidebook required.
13:00 Optional Lunch Break at a Local Restaurant
Recharge with a leisurely lunch at a nearby eatery, choosing from classic mezes, succulent kebabs or a vegetarian pide—each dish bursting with authentic Turkish flavors. Your guide will recommend regional specialties and can arrange a Bosphorus-view table if you wish to dine with a panorama.
14:15 Grand Bazaar & Spice Bazaar (45 min + 30 min)
Lose yourself among 4,000+ stalls at the Grand Bazaar, where hand-woven carpets, ceramics and leather goods await your bargain savvy. Then inhale the heady aromas of saffron, lokum and exotic teas in the nearby Spice Bazaar—your senses will thank you. Keep your guide close for negotiation tips and the best hidden gems.
15:30 Photo Stop at Galata Bridge / Karaköy Waterfront
Enjoy a scenic photo opportunity at the Galata Bridge or along the vibrant Karaköy waterfront. Capture the silhouettes of fishing locals against the historic skyline—Galata Tower, the New Mosque, and the rolling Bosphorus ferries. Your guide will help you frame the perfect shot.
16:00 End of Tour & Leisurely Walk to Galataport
Your day concludes in the heart of Karaköy, just a short stroll from Galataport’s terminal. Enjoy a relaxed, on-foot return through the vibrant waterfront neighborhood—passing street art, cafés and historic buildings—while your guide points out local highlights. Arrive back at your ship by 16:30 with ample time to board, filled with memories (and photos) of an unforgettable private Istanbul adventure.
Tour Map
Tour FAQ
How can I change the tour itinerary?
Customizable itineraries where you may choose sightseeing as per your cruise schedule and comfort. The tour program listed is representative and may completely change to suit your wishes. Feel free to say hello to us!
What is the dress code for mosques?
Visiting Istanbul’s magnificent mosques—including the Blue Mosque—requires modest, respectful attire. Men should wear long trousers and sleeved shirts (short sleeves are acceptable), and women should cover their shoulders, arms, and legs (no shorts or skirts above the knee). Ladies will also need to wear a headscarf to cover their hair; if you arrive without one, we’ll gladly provide a lightweight scarf for your convenience. All visitors remove their shoes before entering prayer halls—so slip-on shoes are easiest—and be prepared to stroll on clean, carpeted floors in socks. By following these simple guidelines, you’ll ensure a comfortable, respectful visit—and your guide will remind everyone of the protocol before you enter each mosque.
What is the difference between Private and Regular SIC Tours?
Private tours only include your group, your guide, and your driver. We offer the most personalized and intimate experience for you and your friends/family in a private tour! Regular SIC tours stand for Seat-in-Coach Basis Tours, which means you will share an air-conditioned coach or van with other tourists and you will have an English-speaking tour guide to take you to all the scenic spots listed in the itinerary that day. While the prices of private tours may vary according to the number of people, the prices of regular tours are fixed.
What languages are available for tours?
Our private tours are operated in English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, and Japanese. Feel free to contact us for any other languages.
Inquiry Form
From: €129.00
