Istanbul Shore Excursion
This private, full-day off-shore excursion features guided tours of Istanbul’s top attractions —Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar. Visit the highlights of Istanbul with an expert private Professional Guide. Ditch the city’s traffic jams with complimentary port transfers using the eco-friendly public tram system. Discover the art of Turkish carpet making and try traditional Turkish cuisine (own expense).
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Istanbul Shore Excursion
What's included in Istanbul Shore Excursion
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Ayasofya
It is the symbol of city. It was built as the greatest church in the world in 537AD. After the fall of Constantinople, it was converted in to the Mosque. Now, it is a museum and it is the symbol of Istanbul. It is closed on Mondays, during national and religious festivals. Then we will have outside visit. We will visit Underground Cistern Instead.
Blue Mosque
Blue Mosque is one of Istanbul’s most venerable monuments. After that, From the courtyard you will enjoy the striking view of the cascading domes and semi-domes. Once inside you will see how the mosque got its name, viewing the colorful blue Iznik tiles that adorn the interior.
Hippodrome
Hippodrome, which was one of the largest chariot race grounds of the Byzantine Empire. So, Here you can see the Egyptian Obelisk and the Serpentine Column.
Inclusions
- Tram ride to the old city and back (Public Transportation)
- Sundays - Grand Bazaar is closed - we will visit handcraft center instead
- Professional Licenced English Speaking Guide
- Your Guide will meet you at the Port
- Gratuties & Meals
- Topkapı Palace
- Hagia Sophia Mosque
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- On Fridays, Hagia Sophia or Blue Mosque will be visited from outside because of the worship.
- As Hagia Sophia is not a museum anymore, tour guides don't have skip-the-line priority there. You may need to wait in the security line
- Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays can be replaced with Spice Market. Carpet weaving lecture will be presented also.
- Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays can be replaced with Basilica Cistern.
- Skip the line service is not available for active mosques - there is a queue for the entrance. Ladies must cover the head with a scarf at the mosque visits. Please bring your scarf. Shoulders and knees must be covered.
- This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting / End Points
- We will meet just outside of the terminal building of Cruise Port with a sign that your name is on.
