We were three couples on a private tour of the Sultanahment area in old Istanbul (Europe side). We saw all of the principle highlights here, even though is was an extremely busy day. The tourist season is still going strong in Istanbul in early October, although it was also a national celebration day that likely attracted even more people. The lines for Hagia Sophia were very long most of the day, but we managed a few minutes inside. We thoroughly covered the Blue Mosque palace and saw the other main sites. Our guide, Emel, found us a nice restaurant with typical local dishes. It was reasonable cost and good food. This is a tour with a ride from the ship and lots of walking to and fro, so be prepared. Emel was full of information and also worked to optimize the touring experience and consider individual requests that could be met. I always recommend an early start for tours to maximize the time available and hopefully avoid some or most crowds. The traffic was crazy in the afternoon, but Emel had a good Plan B, to get us on the trams which sail by most of the traffic and delivered us back to the port in time.
Skip The Line: ISTANBUL PRIVATE SHORE EXCURSION
+5 photos
At a glance
- Duration
- 7 hours
- Price from
- $95 / person
- Rating
- 5.0 / 5 · 2 reviews
- Languages
- EN
- Group
- Private
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation
- Hotel pickup
- Available
- Confirmation
- Instant
Prices checked on Sep 12, 2026Things to do in Istanbul
Description
Our tours have been rewarded with Certificate of Excellence by Tripadvisor 13 times succesively for the years of 2010-2022. We are the most reviewed tour agent on Tripadvisor and Cruise Critics for Istanbul Shore Tours, you can check more than 1.600 Excellent reviews of ours on Tripadvisor/Cruise Critics. Tick all the top sites of Istanbul off your bucket list with private guided tour covering the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, Roman Hippodrome and the Grand Bazaar. Enjoy your authentic Turkish lunch in a very nice local restaurant. %100 percent satisfaction guaranteed.
Tour Options
Itinerary
The Sultan Ahmed Mosque also known as Blue Mosque, one of the most revered masterpieces of the Islamic world, is famous with its blue ceramic tiles and six minarets.
The Church of Holy Wisdom, undoubtedly one of the greatest architectural creations in the world, was used as a mosque during Ottomans and now serves as a museum. Please note it is closed on Monday and it is replaced with the Cistern.
The center for entertainment, amusement and sports in the city during the Roman and Byzantine Empires. The Egyptian Obelisk, the serpentine column and the German fountain of Willhelm II are sites to be visited.
The oldest and the largest covered market place in the world with more almost 4000 shops owing rich collection of handmade carpets, jewelery, leather and souvenirs. Here's the last stop of
Highlights
Local Taxes
Private Driver
Parking Fees and Gas
Experienced Local Private Guide
Private New Model Van with AC
What's included
Included
Local Taxes
Private Driver
Parking Fees and Gas
Experienced Local Private Guide
Private New Model Van with AC
Not included
Personal expenses
Tips to your tour guide
Hagia Sophia Ticket
Lunch
Pickup Locations & Times
Our pick up location is the exit of Istanbul New Cruise Terminal. You will be greeted by your name sign at the exit of the cruise terminal. After you aboard the cruise ship please follow the City Center sign and you will see your private guide holding a sign with your name on it at the city center sign exit. If you use lift please press the ''G'' level, that will take you to the City Center Exit.
Traveller Ratings
5.0
2 reviews
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Please note during the summer months and special holidays our tours do fill up quickly. We suggest you try to book as soon as you can, once your plans are firm.
- Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays and replaced with Underground Cistern.
- This tour is private just for your party
Frequently asked questions
How long does Skip The Line: ISTANBUL PRIVATE SHORE EXCURSION take?
Skip The Line: ISTANBUL PRIVATE SHORE EXCURSION lasts about 7 hours. The itinerary has 4 stops.
How much does Skip The Line: ISTANBUL PRIVATE SHORE EXCURSION cost?
Prices start at $95 per person for this Istanbul experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. There is 1 booking option, so the final price depends on the option you choose.
Can I cancel Skip The Line: ISTANBUL PRIVATE SHORE EXCURSION for free?
Yes. Cancel at least 1 day before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are non-refundable.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered. Our pick up location is the exit of Istanbul New Cruise Terminal. You will be greeted by your name sign at the exit of the cruise terminal. After you aboard the cruise ship please follow the City Center sign and you will see your private guide holding a sign with your name on it at the city center sign exit. If you use lift please press the ''G'' level, that will take you to the City Center Exit. Pickup points include CONTACT_SUPPLIER_LATER, LOC-o0AXGEKPN4wJ9sIG0RAn5OShZZx0g9ePurvEEUaahEcOAhyUrLdcUkbyzSiRJQjy.
What languages is Skip The Line: ISTANBUL PRIVATE SHORE EXCURSION offered in?
The experience is available in EN.
Is this a private or a group tour?
It is a private experience: only your party takes part. Up to 10 travellers can book together.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Will my booking be confirmed immediately?
Yes, bookings are confirmed instantly.
Reviews(2)
Q
Full-Day Private Small-Group Tour of Sultanahmet Area.
1 people found this helpful
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