Istanbul Highlights from Cruise Pier with Skip-the-Ticket-Line

Make the most of your time in Istanbul with this exceptional private tour of the city’s historic Old Town, designed exclusively for cruise guests. Choose between a half-day or full-day experience to suit your schedule and interests. Explore Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks—including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Basilica Cistern—with skip-the-line access, so you can spend more time discovering and less time waiting. For those opting for a full-day tour, you have the option to enhance your experience by adding a visit to the Topkapi Palace or enjoying a scenic Bosphorus boat tour. Your knowledgeable guide will meet you directly at the cruise port and accompany you throughout the tour, sharing fascinating insights and stories that bring Istanbul’s rich history to life. Midway through, enjoy a refreshing break with a complimentary Turkish tea or coffee at a local café. At the end of your day, your guide will escort you back to the cruise pier.

1. 1

   Stop 1

   45 min

   A masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, the Hagia Sophia served as a cathedral, then a mosque, and now a mosque again. Admire its grand dome, golden mosaics, and layers of religious history that span over 1,500 years.

2. 2

   Basilica Cistern

   30 min

   We're going to explore the Basilica Cistern, an ancient water storage system designed to withstand long sieges. With its vast size and 336 columns, it's often referred to as the 'Underground Palace.' It's not only a remarkable historical site but also offers a unique and fascinating experience beneath the streets of Istanbul." Please note that the entry fee is 900 TL per person, and we will purchase the tickets for you to skip the line. Kindly have the amount ready in cash. ( officials share that it will be 1300 TL pp but date is not confirmed yet ).

3. 3

   Blue Mosque

   30 min

   Famed for its six minarets and stunning blue İznik tiles, the Blue Mosque is an active place of worship and a symbol of Ottoman grandeur. Don’t miss its serene courtyard and majestic interior.

4. 4

   Hippodrome

   30 min

   The Hippodrome of Constantinople was a circus that was the sporting and social centre of Constantinople, capital of the Byzantine Empire.

5. 5

   Corlulu Ali Pasa Medresesi

   15 min

   At a point during the tour, your guide will choose a stop where you can enjoy a complimentary Turkish coffee or tea.

6. 6

   Grand Bazaar Jewelers

   30 min

   Visit one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world - Istanbul's Grand Bazaar

7. 7

   TopkapI Palace

   2 hours

   Please note: The palace is included in the full-day tour option. If you choose the half-day tour, you will visit the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, Hippodrome, and the Grand Bazaar.

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• At the Blue Mosque, no one has the right to skip the lines.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.