Full-day private sightseeing tour of Istanbul.

Duration: 8 Hours

Operating Days: Daily 

Pier pick-up time: 09:00am at Istanbul cruise ship port

Child: Ages 5-11

Istanbul Shore Excursion begins by meeting your private expert guide at the exit of the terminal building with a sign of Neon Tours Logo. Once you’re oriented, you will set off for the city’s main highlights. You will be amazed by lots of fascinating information from your guide about the former empires that have ruled this great city throughout the ages, such as the Roman and Ottoman Empires, and the former glory of Constantinople.

Blue Mosque: This Ottoman mosque is depicted by six iconic minarets and features a large dome roof- one of visitor’s favorite places to take photos. Culture lovers will also admire it for its prominence and reverence. Inside, hundreds of stained glass windows illuminate the large main room, adorned with more than 20,000 Iznik-style tiles.

Hagia Sophia: Hagia Sophia,near the Blue Mosque, began as one of the biggest Christian basilicas in existence. But after the Ottoman empire took over Istanbul, it was transformed into a mosque. Today, however, in the post-Ottoman Turkey, it is one of the most stunning museums in the country, Admire the intricate mosaics and tile-work, as well as it’s fascinating history (Optional entrance)

Topkapı Palace: No palace in the world rivals Istanbul’s Topkapi, the crown jewel of the Ottoman Empire. Not only is it the largest palace in the entire world, it is also the oldest. Stroll the engrossing rooms, painted with detailed artwork. and admire views from buildings looking out over the Golden Horn (closed on Tuesday).

Grand Bazaar: As one of the largest covered markets in the world, no shopper will want to miss this highlight. The Grand Bazaar has been conducting continuous business ever since the 14th century. As such, its 58 colorful streets are lined with more than 4,000 storefronts. Keep an eye out for handmade jewelry, pottery, leather, and, of course the famous Turkish carpets (closed on Sunday additional time will be spent at the other locations). This trip ensures your on-time return to Istanbul's port.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Full day of Sightseeing with licensed English Speaking guides
• Blue Mosque
• Hagia Sophia 
• Underground Cistern
• Topkapı Palace (Closed on Tuesdays; will be replaced with Turkish and Islamic Art’s Museum)
• Hippodrome and Obelisk
• Grand Bazaar (Closed on Sundays; additional time will be spent at the other locations around the Grand Bazaar)

Inclusions

• Complimentary pick up and drop from Karakoy port
• Topkapi Palace & Underground Cistern 

Exclusions

• Gratuities (optional)
• Hagia Sophia entrance 
• Food and drinks, unless specified