Top Istanbul Shore Excursions

Istanbul is known for its waterside monuments, from Dolmabahce Palace to Rumeli Fortress, but the best views can’t be found from land. Enjoy front-row seats as Istanbul attractions drift by on this deluxe Bosphorus dinner cruise. Indulge in a mix of Turkish and international dishes—paired with your choice of alcoholic or soft drinks—and take in a lineup of live entertainment, including belly dancers, flamenco performances, and more.

Stroll the atmospheric neighborhoods and historic streets of old Istanbul on a full-day, private walking tour with an experienced guide. Enjoy the flexibility to customize the day to your interests, with plenty of time to visit the sites that interest you most. Trace a path through centuries of Turkish history as you explore the hippodrome, Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. Take in the soaring dome and minarets of Hagia Sophia, then get an insider’s guide to the Grand Bazaar’s vibrant displays of handicrafts, souvenirs and carpets.

Treat yourself to a smooth and hassle-free arrival or departure in Istanbul during this private, one-way airport transfer. Get picked up or dropped off at any hotel on the European side of the city. Simply provide an address and contact details and wait for a prompt arrival by your accommodation or outside the arrivals hall. Travel in a comfortable, private vehicle with a friendly chauffeur.

Discover the charm of Isstanbul on a full-day tour led by a guide. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Blue Mosque and take in the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, browsing its countless treasures. You'll also explore the Hippodrome, admire the exterior of Hagia Sophia, and have the option to visit Topkapi Palace (entrance extra), while uncovering Istanbul's rich history in an intimate group setting.

Istanbul is one of the world's busiest transit hubs, and arrivals can be stressful—especially when you’re trying to track down a taxi. Treat yourself to a hassle-free start to your Turkish vacation with a private transfer to your hotel. Be met at the airport by an English-speaking host, shown to your vehicle, then whisked straight to your accommodation, with a choice of vehicle sizes to suit your party.

A Bosphorus cruise between Europe and Asia is a rite of passage when in Istanbul. Skip the hassle of selecting a boat on the waterfront and enjoy a premium experience aboard a spacious, yacht-style cruiser—with an audio guide in nine languages to explain exactly what you’re seeing. Your package includes tea, coffee, and soft drinks. Upgrade to add snacks with alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks.

Make your Istanbul adventure totally unique with a 1- 2- or 3 day private sightseeing tour. Opt for a single day and see the whole of the Old City, plus the Grand Bazaar. Extend the tour to include a second day and visit the Spice Bazaar, Dolmabahce Palace, Taksim, and Istiklal Street, plus a Bosphorus cruise. Please note that your guide is happy to alter the itinerary completely to accommodate your personal interests.

Marvel at the vibrant city of Istanbul with this half day tour of the history Sultanahmet. This tour is perfect for those short on time, but looking to immerse themselves in the regions culture and traditions. Highlights including the iconic Hagia Sophia and the gorgeously tiled Blue Mosque. Adire the hundreds of columns underground at the Basilica Cistern, before finishing with the chance to shop at Kapali Carsi.

Stroll through Istanbul with the guidance and commentary of a private guide on this food-focused excursion. Your guide will provide facts about the city's culinary culture and history, and you'll stop along the way to taste traditional Turkish delicacies. Highlights include the Spice Bazaar, the back streets of Eminonu, and the Kadikoy fish market.

Explore four breathtaking sites from Istanbul from a whole new perspective. With this tour, you'll visit four ancient monuments that are rich in culture. Visit the Byzantine center of life in the Hippodrome, prepare to be wowed by the majesty of the Blue Mosque, relish in the beauty of the Topkapi Palace, and finish off with a shopping spree at the Grand Bazaar.

See Istanbul's must-see sights without wasting time waiting in line on this efficient tour of its historical highlights. Enjoy seamless, prebooked entry to Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophie and the Basilica Cistern, and learn about the history and culture as you explore. Plus, there's the option for round-trip transportation from Galata Port for cruise passengers.

Island-hopping tours can spend more time traveling between stops than letting you experience the Princes’ Islands themselves. Focus your day on Buyukada, with more time to discover its car-free streets, Ottoman mansions, pine-covered landscapes, and sea views. An island shuttle tour helps you cover more ground and learn about local history and culture, while lunch adds convenience to your day away from central Istanbul.

Benefit from the undivided attention of your guide on this private Istanbul sightseeing tour—ideal for cruise visitors with just one day in port. Step off your ship and dive into the heart of historic Istanbul, visiting Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, and more without checking the map or worrying about getting lost. Finish by practicing your haggling at the legendary Grand Bazaar.

*Since Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays, the visit will be switched to Spice Bazaar. Explore best of Istanbul’s Old City on a half-day private tour including Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. Discover the heart of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires with your licensed guide. Begin in Sultanahmet Square and step inside the iconic Blue Mosque, famed for its six minarets and stunning blue tiles, then explore the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture that has stood as cathedral, mosque, and museum through the ages. (On Fridays, Blue Mosque is closed until 13:45 because of Friday prayers. Tours departing at 09:00, the mosque will be explained by your guide from the outside.) Visit unique Basilica Cistern and continue to the bustling Grand Bazaar, where your guide will introduce you to Turkish trade traditions and local artisans. Your tour ends in Eminonu Square, with a view of the Galata Tower, leaving you with lasting impressions of Istanbul’s vibrant history.

Float down the UNESCO-listed Bosphorus Strait-with a cold drink in hand-on a sunset cruise aboard a luxury yacht. Fun for solo travelers, couples, and families alike, this shared aquatic excursion is the perfect way to unwind after a long day of sightseeing. As you float past iconic landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia, Dolmahbace Palace, and Rumeli Fortress, snack on freshly prepared canapes and Turkish baklava.

This is not just a boat ride — it's a magical journey through centuries of history, art, and culture, all set against the glittering night skyline of Istanbul. What makes our cruise truly unique is the perfect blend of storytelling, comfort, and scenery. As you sip your warm Turkish tea and enjoy homemade cookies, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking views of palaces, mosques, fortresses, and iconic bridges — all beautifully illuminated and brought to life through the voice of our knowledgeable guide. Unlike daytime tours, our evening cruise offers a serene, romantic atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle. The reflections of city lights on the Bosphorus waters create an unforgettable ambiance — ideal for couples, photographers, history lovers, and anyone looking to see Istanbul from a new perspective. Add to that our carefully planned route covering both European and Asian shores, and you get an immersive cultural experience that you simply won’t find anywhere else.

Discover Istanbul through its majestic waterway, the Bosphorus River. Cruise along the scenic river that divides Europe and Asia and see many landmarks and highlights in just a few hours. Enjoy insightful commentary as you pass Süleymaniye Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahce Palace, Rumeli Fortress, and Galata Tower. Optional stop at Beylerbeyi with palace visit is available only on 10:00 am and 1:15 pm departures.

Escape the crowds of Istanbul to discover the peace and tranquility of Princes' Islands. Take in views of Istanbul from the water as you travel to the islands. Learn about the history of the area, and enjoy exploring at your own leisure with time to swim, hike and stop off for a fresh seafood lunch (own expense).

Get a fresh look at Istanbul on this sunset yacht cruise with a live guide to tell you all the top tales as you glide by palaces, mosques and minarets. Sail north as far as pretty Kanlıca, then head south to see the Bosphorus Bridge transformed into a dazzling LED light sculpture after sunset. As you travel, enjoy snacks, water, seasonal fruit, tea, coffee and, of course, Turkey’s signature baklava.

See the sights of Istanbul that most interest you on a customized 1 -2 or 3 -days tour with a private guide. Opt for a single day and see the whole of the Old City, plus the Grand Bazaar. Extend the tour to include a second day and visit the Spice Bazaar, Dolmabahce Palace, Taksim, and Istiklal Street, plus a Bosphorus cruise.Please note that your guide is happy to alter the itinerary completely to accommodate your personal interests. Day 1: Private istanbul Guided Tour Day:Blue Mosq,Hagia Sophia,Topkapi Palace,Basilica Cistern,Grand Bazar Day 2:Private istanbul Guided Tour : Spice Bazaar, Bosphorus cruise, Dolmabahce Palace, Istiklal Street, and Taksim Day 3:Private istanbul Tour:Galata Tower,Fener Rum Patrikhanesi,Kariye Museum,Pierre Loti Tepesi *Private guide means a more personalized experience *Option to select a 1 - 2 or 3 day private tour by walking or VAN *Explore the local streets on a walking tour of the city *Customize the itinerary according to your schedule.

See the highlights of Istanbul’s historic center without worrying about getting lost in the city’s winding lanes with this tour, which covers many of the city's most important attractions in just one day. Explore the halls of Topkapi Palace, browse for souvenirs in the Grand Bazaar, check out the famous Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, and enjoy an included lunch of Turkish fare.

Take a break from the chaos of the city during this convenient and relaxing yacht cruise that takes you on a ride along the Bosphorus. Plus, this trip includes a stop at Kanica on the Asian side. This small-group tour offers travelers an experience away from the large crowds in the city, allowing you to admire Istanbul's charm while staying relaxed.

Enjoy a royal welcome to Istanbul with hotel or port pickup on this full-day private tour, featuring skip-the-line access at key landmarks. Discover the historic Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, the Grand Bazaar, and the Basilica Cistern, maximizing your time by avoiding long queues (entrance fees not included). Explore at your own pace alongside an expert guide, enjoying the comfort, flexibility, and personal attention of a private experience. Ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive yet tailored introduction to Istanbul’s rich history and culture.

Explore two of Istanbul’s most iconic attractions during this small-group walking tour of the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Take a walk through the vibrant Sultanahmet neighborhood and admire the beautiful Islamic architecture of the Blue Mosque. Then, enjoy a guided tour of the Hagia Sophia, where you learn about life under Ottoman and Byzantine rule.