Istanbul
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
-
Istanbul Port - Treasures of Istanbul (Full Day Tour)
PORT: ISTANBUL
TREASURES OF ISTANBUL
Full-Day Tour
Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your full- day of private sightseeing.
Your private tour of Istanbul begins with a visit to the Hippodrome, which was one of the largest chariot race grounds of the Byzantine Empire. You will take a short walk to the Blue Mosque, completed in 1616, it is a triumph of harmony, proportion and elegance. The mosque was a part of a complex also including, tombs, fountains, kitchens, and a bath. The blue Iznik Tiles covering the walls have given the mosque its popular name, Blue Mosque.
Hagia Sophia Mosque is mostly known as one of the most valuable and fascinating structures in the world of art and architecture. It deserves to enter to the collection of the rare works by challenging to the time. The walls of this beautiful piece of architecture are decorated with gorgeous mosaics. UNESCO accepts Hagia Sophia as The World Heritage because of architectural beauty.
** St. Sophia is a mosque and you need to remove your shoes and cover your head, shoulders, knees. It is advised to dress respectfully during visiting.
Lunch recommended in an old Ottoman House. You can taste delicious Turkish cuisine in a lovely setting.
Next, you will visit the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the residence of the sultans for almost three centuries. It is located on the promontory jutting out between the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. The construction of the Topkapi Palace was completed between 1465 and 1478. Being the imperial residence of the sultan, his court and harem, the palace was also the seat of government for the Ottoman Empire. .
Last, you will continue to explore ninety-two streets of the famous Grand Bazaar. The Grand Bazaar is the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of Turkish Handicrafts, Oriental carpets, rare jewels and inexpensive souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other. The streets are named according to the trades, such as gold and silver sellers, carpet sellers, booksellers, etc
At the end of your day, you will return to the port to embark your ship.
Includes:
- 1 full- day of private sightseeing in Istanbul
- Licensed professional guide in English language
- Air- conditioned luxury vehicle with professional driver
- Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary
- Bottled water provided throughout the tours
- Welcome package
- VAT tax
Not included:
- Gratuities to guide and driver
- Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary
- Personal expenses of the guests
- Recommended lunch
-
Istanbul Port - Byzantine Highlights- (Half Day Tour)
PORT: ISTANBUL
BYZANTINE HIGHLIGHTS
Half-Day Tour
Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your half day Byzantine Highlights tour.
First, your private tour of Istanbul begins with a visit to the Hippodrome, which was one of the largest chariot race grounds of the Byzantine Empire.
Hagia Sophia Mosque is mostly known as one of the most valuable and fascinating structures in the world of art and architecture. It deserves to enter to the collection of the rare works by challenging to the time. The walls of this beautiful piece of architecture are decorated with gorgeous mosaics. UNESCO accepts Hagia Sophia as The World Heritage because of architectural beauty.
** St. Sophia is a mosque and you need to remove your shoes and cover your head, shoulders, knees. It is advised to dress respectfully during visiting.
Then, you will visit the Underground Cistern, a fiant reservoir built by Justinian in the 6th century to bring water to the city to be used in the palaces. It is 70 meters wide and 140 meters long, with a capacity of 80,000 cubic meters of water. It has 336 beautiful columns that support the cistern, two of which are carved with the head of Medusa on the plinth.
Last, you continue to explore ninety- two streets of the famous Grand Bazaar, the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of Turkish Handicrafts, Oriental carpets, rare jewels and inexpensive souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other.
At the end your morning experience at 1:00pm, you will return to the port and embark your ship.
Includes:
- 1 half-day of private sightseeing in Istanbul
- Licensed professional guide in English language
- Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary
- Private Air-conditioned VIP vehicle with professional driver
- Bottled water provided throughout the tours
- Welcome Package
- VAT taxes
Not included:
- Gratuities to guide and driver
- Personal expenses of the guests
- Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary
-
Istanbul Port - Cultural Istanbul-(Full Day Tour)
PORT: ISTANBUL
CULTURAL ISTANBUL
Private Full-Day Tour
Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your private full- day sightseeing.
First, you will visit the Suleymaniye Mosque. Built by the great Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan on the order of Sultan Suleiman I (Suleiman the Magnificent), the Suleymaniye Mosque dominates the third hill of old Istanbul, and is strikingly graceful and less ornate than many other imperial mosques, thus lending itself to meditation and quiet reflection.
Next, you will visit the St. Saviour in Chora Mosque After St. Sophia Mosque, St.Saviour Chora Mosque is the most important Byzantine Church converted to a mosque in the city. It was built in the 11th century AD. The walls are decorated with breathtaking 14th century AD frescoes and mosaics. The mosaics relate to the life story of Virgin Mary and the life of Christ.
Lunch recommended at Hamdi Restaurant serving traditional Turkish Kebaps.
Then, you will discover the Egyptian Bazaar; the second largest covered market in Istanbul. It was constructed in the 1660s as part of the Yeni Camii (New Mosque) complex. The name derives from the herbs, and spices imported from or through Egypt. It is still the best place to buy Turkish delight, dried fruit, exotic spices and herbs.
You will continue to explore ninety-two streets of the famous Grand Bazaar. The Grand Bazaar is the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of Turkish Handicrafts, Oriental carpets, rare jewels and inexpensive souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other. The streets are named according to the trades, such as gold and silver sellers, carpet sellers, booksellers, etc.
Visit the 16th Century palace of the Sultan’s Grand Vizier, Ibrahim Pasa, which today houses the Turkish and Islamic Art Museum. The museum contains what many consider to be the finest collection of Islamic artifacts in the world. The museum is well laid out and contains more rare examples of ceramics, Koran cases, calligraphy, textiles, metalwork and illuminated manuscripts. Its antique carpet exhibit is renowned; the carpets, kilims and prayer rugs form one of the richest and oldest collections in the world.
At the end of your day, you will return to the port to embark your ship.
Includes:
- 1 full- day of private sightseeing in Istanbul
- Air- conditioned luxury VIP vehicle with a professional driver
- Licensed professional guide in English language
- Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary
- Bottled water provided on the vehicles.
- Welcome package
- VAT taxes
Not included:
- Gratuities to guide and driver
- Personal expenses of the guests
- Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary
- Recommended lunch
-
Istanbul Port - Ottoman Collection - (Half-Day Tour)
PORT: ISTANBUL
OTTOMAN COLLECTION
Half - Day Tour
Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for a half - day Ottoman Collection tour.
Your private tour of Istanbul begins with a visit to the Blue Mosque, completed in 1616, it is a triumph of harmony, proportion and elegance. The mosque was a part of a complex also including, tombs, fountains, kitchens, and a bath. The blue Iznik Tiles covering the walls have given the mosque its popular name, Blue Mosque.
Next, you will visit the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the residence of the sultans for almost three centuries. It is located on the promontory jutting out between the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. The construction of the Topkapi Palace was completed between 1465 and 1478. Being the imperial residence of the sultan, his court and harem, the palace was also the seat of government for the Ottoman Empire.
Last, you will continue to explore ninety- two streets of the famous Grand Bazaar. The Grand Bazaar is the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of Turkish Handicrafts, Oriental carpets, rare jewels and inexpensive souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other. The streets are named according to the trades, such as gold and silver sellers, carpet sellers, booksellers, etc
At the end of your morning visits approximately at 1:00pm, you will return to the port to embark your ship.
Includes:
- 1 half-day of private sightseeing in Istanbul
- Licensed professional guide in English language
- Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary
- Private Air-conditioned VIP vehicle with professional driver
- Welcome Package
- Bottled water provided throughout the tours
- VAT taxes
Not included:
- Gratuities to guide and driver
- Personal expenses of the guests
- Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary
-
Istanbul: Highlights - 7 hours
An English speaking officially licenced lecturer/guide will meet the guests at the exit of the Istanbul cruise pier at 08:30 am, with a sign reading their names, for a private sightseeing tour of Istanbul.
The private tour program will start with the Roman Hippodrome that was a colossal stadium housing horse races around which the socio-political life of the Roman capital was centered. In its great days, it was 1575 feet long, 384 feet wide and held 100,000 spectators. It was the site of chariot racing, gladiator fights, circuses, inaugurations and triumphal parades.
The tour will continue with a visit to the Blue Mosque- the masterpiece of 17th century Ottoman Architecture, famous for its unique hand made original Iznik Tiles impressing the guests with their rich dominant blue colors and oriental patterns. They have become collectors’ items today, auctioned at celebrated houses like the Sotheby’s.
Next visit will be to the Topkapi Palace and its Imperial Treasury Section that was the center of Ottoman Empire’s Government Seat ruling most of the Middle East and the Eastern Europe from this palace for 500 years.
Lunch will be served at a recommended local/select restaurants close to the sites.
In the afternoon, visit the World famous Hagia Sophia (The Church of Divine Wisdom), one of the extraordinary masterpieces in the history of World architecture. When a previous church on this site was burned during the Nikka Revolt in 532, Justinian ordered his architect, Isidorus, to build a structure worthy of his empire. Hagia Sophia was completed in only five years and was dedicated on Christmas Day of 537. The building inspired countless generations by its innovations in weight support and construction techniques and what a dome it was: the popular belief was that ‘the dome was suspended from Heaven by an invisible golden chain’. In reality it was work of men, but a worldly simulator of the Heavens
Finally, visit the Grand Bazaar, more dazzling than any other oriental bazaar, built in 1461 and in service ever since. It contains 3,500 shops employing more than 20,000 people all under one roof. Everything imaginable in the world is for sale here, glittering gold and silver jewelry, antique tiles, leather, and souvenirs. Just seeing and experiencing this fascinating bazaar is a memorable experience.
At the end of today’s private tour, the guests will be transferred back to the cruise pier.
- Closed weekly days for sites/museums:
- St. Sophia is closed on Mondays
- Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays
- Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays and official holidays.
Highlights:
- Great introduction to Istanbul's history and culture
- The tour covers the main highlights of the city
Tour Duration : 7 hours
Tour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: Partial
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a chauffeur driven a/c private vehicle, licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
-
Istanbul: Jewish Heritage Tour - 7 hours
An English speaking officially licenced lecturer/guide will meet the guests at the exit of the Istanbul cruise pier at 09:00 am, with a sign reading their names, for a private sightseeing tour of Istanbul.
First visit of the day is to the Galata Tower which was built in 1303 by immigrants from Genoa, Italy. While sipping your Turkish coffee there, you will be amazed at the spectacular view of the Golden Horn and the old buildings located on its shores depicting how Istanbul looked hundreds years ago.
The private tour will continue with a visit to the Neve Shalom and the oldest Synagogue in Istanbul- the Ahrida Synagogue, built around 1470 by Jewish immigrants from Macedonia.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant close to the sites.
The guests will be then taken to the Jewish Museum of Turkey. There is evidence that this building as a former synagogue existed in 1671. However the actual building was re-erected over its original foundations presumably in the early 19th Century. Zulfaris Synagogue has opened its doors as the Jewish museum in 2001. Continue to visit the Balat section, where the Star of David appears.
At the end of the day,a private lecturer/guide will take the guests back to the cruise pier.
Closed weekly days for sites/museums:
• Synagogues are closed on Saturdays and Sunday
* Neve Shalon Synagogue is closed on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays
• Zulfaris Synagogue (Jewish Museum) is closed on Saturdays.
* Please forward us a copy of your guests’ passport page with the photo, as required by the Chief Rabbi of Istanbul, to obtain His official approval for the synagogue visits in Turkey.
Added Value:
*Great introduction to Istanbul's Jewish history and culture
*The tour covers the main highlights of the Jewish Heritage in Istanbul
Tour Duration : 7 hours
Tour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: Partial
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a cheaffeur driven a/c private vehicle, a licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
-
Istanbul: Private Art Collections - 7 hours
An English speaking private lecturer/guide will meet you at at the Istanbul cruise pier at 9 am for departure by chauffeur driven a/c deluxe minivan, to start your private sightseeing tour of Istanbul.
Today’s private tour will start with a visit to the Istanbul Modern Museum of Art, situated at the shores of the Bosphorus. Istanbul Modern Museum of Art exhibits Turkey’s art heritage, and creates a platform for Turkish peoples’ creativity, dynamism, cultural identity and universal values.
A drive along the scenic Bosphorus Avenue will take you to the Family Villa of the Sabanci’s, the Internationally successful Turkish industrialist, now housing Mr. Sabanci’s lifetime collection of rare art pieces and celebrated paintings by Int’l and local masters, displayed in his former Family Home, recently donated to his Foundation as a Private Museum.
Lunch will be served at a local seafood restaurant by the shores of the Bosphorus (at your own discretion and cost).
After lunch, you will visit Private Museum of Lady Sadberk, donated to the nation by art-loving wife of Vehbi Koc, another leading industrialist. The beautiful, late-Ottoman wooden mansion contains a fabulous collection of Turkish arts and crafts, including jewelry, silverware, and Iznik ceramics of the classic period.
At the end of the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel/cruise pier by 4 pm.
Closed weekly days for sites/museums:
• Istanbul Modern Museum is closed on Mondays.
• Sabanci: Museum is closed on Mondays.
• Lady Sadberk Han Museum is closed on Wednesdays.
Added Value:
*Great introduction to Istanbul's art culture
*The tour covers the main highlights of art in the city
Tour Duration : 7 hours
Tour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: Partial
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a chaeffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
-
Istanbul: Private Yacht Cruise along the Bosphorus - 7 hours
An English speaking officially licensed lecturer/guide will meet the guests at the Istanbul cruise pier at 09:00 am for a private sightseeing tour of Istanbul.
Today’s tour will start with a visit to the Dolmabahce Palace- the largest and the finest example of Ottoman Baroque Architecture, a monument to the Ottomans’ westernization process in the 19th century. The Ottoman response to the overwhelming changes in the post-renaissance world was rapid westernization, initiated in the imperial lifestyle at first that gave way to the creation of a series of baroque-style European-fashion palaces on the shores of the Bosphorus.
You will then board a private boat for a cruise on the Bosphorus against the majestic skyline of Istanbul. Your private boat will cruise along the romantic Bosphorus visiting both the Europe Side and the Asia Side of Istanbul by the shores of local fishing villages, en route when it is possible to take memorable photos of the fascinating environments including the 15th century Rumelihisar? Fortress, the Summer Palaces of Lady Ottoman Sultans, and the historical Wooden Houses (Yalis) of famous Turkish families. The cruise ends on the Asian side of Istanbul.
Lunch will be served at a local seafood restaurants in Kanlica Village by the Bosphorus.
After lunch, you will proceed to the top of the Grand Camlica Hill, where you will enjoy the panoramic view of the European side of Istanbul.
Your private tour will continue with a visit to the Beylerbeyi Palace, the residence of the Ottoman Sultans in late 19th and early 20th century.
After this visit, a scenic drive on the Asian shores of the Bosphorus will take you to the Kanlica Village where you will have a taste of the famous “local yogurt” and “apple tea” in a local café by the Bosphorus.
At the end of the day, the lecturer/guide will take the guests back to the hotel/cruise ship by 4 pm.
Closed weekly days for sites/museums:
• Dolmabahçe Palace is closed on Mondays and Thursdays.
• Beylerbeyi Palace is closed on Mondays and Thursdays.
Added Value:
*Great introduction to Istanbul's history and culture
Tour Duration : 7 hours
Tour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a chauffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
-
Istanbul: The 16th Century Masterpieces of Sinan the Architect - 7 hours
Your English speaking private guide will meet you at the Istanbul cruise pier at 9 am for a private full day sightseeing tour of Sinan the architect’s Istanbul buildings.
The private tour will start with a visit to Rustem Pasha Mosque. It was designed by famous “Sinan the Architect” for Grand Vizier Rustem Pasha. Rustem Pasha Mosque is famous for its exquisite Iznik tiles, set in beautiful floral and geometric designs, which cover not only the facade of the porch but also the walls and columns.
Continue to Mosque of Suleyman the Magnificent, which is the most important of all the imperial mosques in Istanbul. Suleyman the Magnificent and his wife are both buried here and the mosque is considered the most beautiful of the city’s Imperial mosques. It was built between 1550 and 1557 by Sinan, and is erected on the crest of a hill. The mosque is conspicuous by its great size, and has four minarets – one in each corner of the courtyard. The interior is also spectacular; the mihrab (prayer niche facing Mecca) and the mimber (pulpit) are finely carved in white marble, and there are magnificent stained glass windows.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant close to the sights (at your own discretion and cost).
In the afternoon, you will visit the Mihrimah Sultan Mosque located in the Edirnekapi neighborhood near the Byzantine city walls. Located on the peak of the Sixth Hill near the highest point of the city, the mosque is a prominent landmark in Istanbul. The Mihrimah Sultan Mosque was designed by "Sinan the Architect" for the favorite daughter of Suleiman the Magnificent, Princess Mihrimah.
Last visit of the day will be to the Sehzade Mosque which was commissioned by Sultan Suleiman in memory of his eldest son by Hürrem, Prince Mehmet, who died the age of 21. It was the first major commission by the Imperial Architect Sinan and was completed in 1548. It is considered by architectural historians as Sinan's first masterpiece of classical Ottoman architecture.
At the end of the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel/cruise ship by 4 pm.
Added Value:
*Great introduction to Sinan the Architect's masterpieces
*The tour covers the masterpieces of Sinan the Architect in Istanbul
Tour Duration : 7 hours
Tour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: Partial
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a chauffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
-
Istanbul Full Day Sightseeing plus Private Bosphorus Cruise - 8 hours
Highlights/Description:
- Dolmabahce Palace
- Cruise on Bosphorus
- Rüstem Pasha Mosque
- Spice Bazaar
Your English-speaking, private guide will meet you at the cruise pier for your full day sightseeing tour of Istanbul.
First, you will proceed to explore the 19th Century Dolmabahce Palace to experience its eclectic style of architecture with Baroque and Rococo touch. Compared to Topkap? Palace, Dolmabahçe is more westernized in its architectural style. You will enjoy its elaborate interior decoration.
You will next board a private motor yacht for a relaxing cruise on the Bosphorus, which has been a geopolitically important strait between Europe and Asia connecting the Black Sea to the Marmara Sea. You will pass by some magnificent palaces, old mansions and fortresses.
Next, you will see the Rüstem Pasha Mosque, which is among the city's architectural gems. This is the first example of the great Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan building a mosque to an octagonal plan. Beautifully proportioned and the interior is covered in some of the most exquisite Iznik tiles ever produced. The tiles, made at the height of Iznik's supremacy, have a good deal of the famous red color that was the envy of other tile makers (blue, yellow, white and green were easy colors to produce, but red was extraordinarily difficult.
You will explore the Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar). It was constructed in the 17th Century as a part of the New Mosque complex. This oriental market is the best place to buy Turkish delight, exotic spices, herbs, Turkish coffee and tea.
Before you will be transferred back to the port, your guide will take you to the backstreets of the Spice Bazaar to taste a traditional Ottoman drink: Boza (fermented millet) at the famous Vefa Bozacisi.
At the end of the tour, your private guide will transfer you back to your hotel or cruise pier.
Tour Duration: 8 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Officially licensed, private guide
- Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle
- 2 Hour Bosphorus Cruise with Private Yacht
- Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program
- Bottled water
- Welcome package
- Applicable taxes
Not Included:
- Meals, unless otherwise noted
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
-
Istanbul Half Day Sightseeing plus Private Bosphorus Cruise - 4 hours
Highlights/Description:
Your English-speaking, private guide will meet you at the cruise pier for your half day sightseeing tour of Istanbul.
First, you will proceed to explore the 19th Century Dolmabahce Palace to experience its eclectic style of architecture with Baroque and Rococo touch. Compared to Topkap? Palace, Dolmabahçe is more westernized in its architectural style. You will enjoy its elaborate interior decoration.
You will next board a private motor yacht for a relaxing cruise on the Bosphorus, which has been a geopolitically important strait between Europe and Asia connecting the Black Sea to the Marmara Sea. You will pass by some magnificent palaces, old mansions and fortresses.
At the end of the tour, your private guide will transfer you back to your hotel or cruise pier.
Tour Duration: 4 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Officially licensed, private guide
- Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle
- 2 Hour Bosphorus Cruise with Private Yacht
- Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program
- Bottled water
- Welcome package
- Applicable taxes
Not Included:
- Meals, unless otherwise noted
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
-
Jewish Heritage Half Day Tour (Istanbul) - 4 hours
Highlights/Description:
- Galata Quarter
- Ahrida Synagogue
- Jewish Museum
- Grand Bazaar
Your English-speaking, private guide will meet you at the cruise pier for your half day sightseeing tour of Istanbul.
Your private tour will start with a visit to the old Galata Quarter, a Jewish quarter for centuries. Visit to the Galata Tower, which was built in 1303 by immigrants from Genoa, Italy. A medieval stone tower in the heart of Pera quarter just to the north of the Golden Horn. One of the city's most striking landmarks, it is a high, cone-capped cylinder that dominates the skyline and affords a panoramic vista of Old Istanbul and its environs. You will enjoy the spectacular view of the city.
Next visit will be to the Ottoman Baroque style Ahrida Synagogue originally built in the 15th century and is the earliest synagogue in Istanbul. The original 20-foot long oak bimah (teva), shaped either like Noah’s Ark or, like the Ottoman ship which brought the Sephardim to freedom from Spain to Turkey, can still be seen.
Your private tour will continue with a visit to the Jewish Museum of Turkey, which is housed in the former Zulfaris Synagogue, aims to “collect, preserve, exhibit, interpret and disseminate knowledge about the cultural heritage of the Turkish Jews.” It captures 700 years of amiable relations between Jews and Turks, beginning in 1326 with the Ottoman conquest of Bursa. The building itself dates from the early 19th century, although there is evidence of a Synagogue in the same spot in the 17th century. The Synagogue functioned as a place of worship for over a century, and was reopened as the Quincentenial Foundation Museum of Turkish Jews (Jewish Museum of Turkey) in 2001.The Museum contains various exhibits relating to Jewish history in Istanbul and is fitted with information panels, maps and some touch screen information booths.
Lastly visit the famous Grand Bazaar, the largest and the oldest covered Bazaar in this part of the world with more than 4000 small shops. You will see a great variety of Turkish handicrafts, handmade oriental carpets, jewelry and many souvenirs within the old market.
At the end of your tour, you will be transferred back to the cruise pier.
Tour Duration: 4 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning or Afternoon (not available on the Sabbath or Jewish Holidays)
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Officially licensed, private guide
- Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle
- Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program
- Bottled water
- Welcome package
- Applicable taxes
Not Included:
- Meals, unless otherwise noted
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
-
Old City of Istanbul Full Day Tour - 8 hours
Highlights/Description:
- Roman Hippodrome and Egyptian Obelisk
- Blue Mosque
- Haghia Sophia
- Topkapi Palace
- Basilica Cistern
- Grand Bazaar
Your English-speaking, private guide will meet you at the cruise pier for your full day sightseeing tour of Istanbul with a deluxe air-conditioned mini-van.
You will first visit the Roman Hippodrome, along with the Egyptian Obelisk, and then proceed to the Blue Mosque, which was built in between 1609-1616. The Blue tiles cover the walls have given its popular name “Blue Mosque”.
Next visit will be to one of the great monumental buildings of the world Haghia Sophia that was built by Emperor Justinian in 537. It has remained as the greatest church until the conquest of Constantinople in 1453 by the Ottoman Sultan Mehmet II. The great dome and its gallery were covered with gold mosaics and still survive.
Proceed to the magnificent Topkap? Palace, which has been the residence of the Ottoman Sultans for almost four centuries. Besides being the residence of the Sultan and his family, Topkap? was also the seat of the Ottoman Divan. 5000 people lived in the palace. You will see the Sultan’s Treasury and the Holy Relics exhibition.
You will continue to the Underground Cistern (Basilica Cistern), which is the most unusual structure in the city. This was a vital part of defense system of the city as a big water reservoir, which can hold 18 million gallons of water.
Lastly visit the famous Grand Bazaar, the largest and the oldest covered Bazaar in this part of the world with more than 4000 small shops. You will see a great variety of Turkish handicrafts, handmade oriental carpets, jewelry and many souvenirs within the old market.
Before you are transferred back to your hotel or the cruise pier, you will visit the best baklava factory to taste this awesome dessert.
At the end of your tour, you will be transferred back to the cruise pier.
Tour Duration: 8 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Officially licensed, private guide
- Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle
- Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program
- Bottled water
- Welcome package
- Applicable taxes
Not Included:
- Meals, unless otherwise noted
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
-
Old City of Istanbul Half Day Tour - 4 hours
Highlights/Description:
- Roman Hippodrome
- Egyptian Obelisk
- Blue Mosque
- Haghia Sophia –OR– Topkapi Palace
- Grand Bazaar
Your English-speaking, private guide will meet you at the cruise pier for your half day sightseeing tour of Istanbul with a deluxe air-conditioned mini-van.
You will first visit the Roman Hippodrome, along with the Egyptian Obelisk, and then proceed to the Blue Mosque, which was built in between 1609-1616. The Blue tiles cover the walls have given its popular name “Blue Mosque”.
*Next visit will be to one of the great monumental buildings of the world Haghia Sophia that was built by Emperor Justinian in 537. It has remained as the greatest church until the conquest of Constantinople in 1453 by the Ottoman Sultan Mehmet II. The great dome and its gallery were covered with gold mosaics and still survive.
OR
*Next visit will be to the magnificent Topkap? Palace, which has been the residence of the Ottoman Sultans for almost four centuries. Besides being the residence of the Sultan and his family, Topkap? was also the seat of the Ottoman Divan. 5000 people lived in the palace. You will see the Sultan’s Treasury and the Holy Relics exhibition.
Lastly visit the famous Grand Bazaar, the largest and the oldest covered Bazaar in this part of the world with more than 4000 small shops. You will see a great variety of Turkish handicrafts, handmade oriental carpets, jewelry and many souvenirs within the old market.
At the end of your tour, you will be transferred back to the cruise pier.
* You have the option to choose Topkapi Palace or St. Sophia
Tour Duration: 4 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Officially licensed, private guide
- Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle
- Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program
- Bottled water
- Welcome package
- Applicable taxes
Not Included:
- Meals, unless otherwise noted
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
-
Istanbul Port - Private Bosphorus Cruise (Half Day)
Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your private cruise on the Bosphorus and visit to Grand Bazaar.
You will transfer to pier to embark your private yacht for an exciting cruise on the Bosphorus, the narrow strait of water separating the Asian and European continents and the lifeblood of Istanbul. Passing along the shores of the Bosphorus you will view magnificent palaces, restored Ottoman villas, impressive fortresses and the waterside residences of Istanbul’s elite. Enjoy soft drinks tea and coffee on the motor yacht and see a different perspective of Istanbul, described by a Byzantine visitor in the 12th century as “the city of the world’s desire”. Cruise takes approximately 1½hours.
Then, you will visit the Grand Bazaar, the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of handicrafts, carpets, rare jewels and souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other. The merchants are selling everything from antiques, home wares, books, copper ware, ceramics, gold and inexpensive souvenirs. Venture into the hidden courtyards or hans, lookout for marble fountains and ornate kiosks. Streets are named according to the trades and the most oriental atmosphere in Istanbul is found in the bazaar.
At the end of your experience, approximately at 1:00pm, you will return to the port to embark your ship.
Inclusions:
- 1 half day of sightseeing in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver.
- Services of an officially licensed, English speaking guide throughout the tour program.
- Bosphorus cruise on a private yacht for 1½ hours.
- Bottled water provided through the tour.
- Welcome Package.
- VAT taxes.
Exclusions:
- Gratuities to the Guide & Driver
- At the discretion of the guests
- Personal expenses of the guests
-
Istanbul Port - Private Cooking Class in a Local Home with Market Visit
Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, outside of the terminal building at the port for your private cooking class experience.
First you will embark on a culinary tour in the Spice Market, you will stop at one of the most famous spice shops and taste the different spices that you will use during your class. After your culinary tour in the Spice Market, you will transfer to a local neighbourhood for a street market tour with our local chef.
You will enjoy the workshop for your cooking experience. You will cook some traditional Turkish food with a professional chef. You will have lunch with the food you prepared and have a chance to taste what you have cooked with local wine. Put your chef hats on and get cooking! Learn authentic recipes from local experts & chefs on a one of a kind private cooking class in Istanbul.
At the end of your experience, you will return to the port .
Inclusions:
- Private Cooking Class experience.
- A deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver
- Private chauffeur driven a/c deluxe vehicle throughout the program.
- Services of an officially licensed, English speaking guide throughout the tour program
- Bottled water provided throughout the tour.
- Welcome Package.
- VAT taxes.
Exclusions:
- Gratuities to the Guide & Driver
- At the discretion of the guests
- Personal expenses of the guests
-
Istanbul Port - Private Culinary Walking Tour ( Half Day Tour)
Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your half day culinary adventure through the Spice Bazaar.
You will visit the Egyptian Bazaar, the second largest covered market in Istanbul. It was constructed in the 1660s as part of the Yeni Camii (New Mosque) complex. The name derives from the herbs, and spices imported from or through Egypt. It is still the best place to buy Turkish delight, dried fruit, exotic spices, herbs, nuts, Turkish apricots and cavier. Around the bazaar , you can also find the cheese shops, fruits and vegetables.
After your experience, you can have a break at one of the Turkish tea shops in the bazaar area and enjoy a Turkish or herbal tea.
At the end of your morning visits approximately at 1:00pm, you will return to the port.
Afternoon at leisure.
Inclusions:
- 1 half day of sightseeing in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver.
- Licensed professional guide in English language.
- Services of Sea Song Tour’s English speaking, officially licensed guide throughout the tour program.
- Entrance fees to all museums, parks, and historic sites as marked on the itinerary.
- Bottled water provided through the tour.
- Welcome Package.
- VAT taxes.
Exclusions:
- Gratuities to the Guide & Driver
- At the discretion of the guests
- Personal expenses of the guests
-
Istanbul: Edirne Highlights - 11 hours
An English speaking private lecturer/guide will meet you at Istanbul cruise pier at 8 am and you will be driven to Edirne (approx. 3 hours), known formerly as Adrianople and was the second capital of the Ottoman Empire. Edirne is situated in Thrace, in westernmost Turkey on the border of Greece and is known for the Selimiye Mosque, built in the 16th century by the famous architect Sinan. The mosque's main structure comprises 18 small domes dominated by a huge central dome on 8 columns with 3 balconied minarets on 4 sides.
The tour will include visits to Selimiye & Complex (Vakiflar), Turkish - Islamic Works Museum The works are exhibited in the room numbered 14 in Dar - ül Tedris Madrasa in the courtyard of Selimiye Mosque with the Archaeological and Ethnographical Museums, In the hand works part, there is a village kitchen, Carpet, Kilim and Rush Mat weaving looms are located and other incredible mosques such as the Yildirim Mosque, Uc Serefeli Mosque and the Beyazit II Mosque.
Lunch will be served at local restaurant close to the sights, at your own cost.
There are also impressive caravanserais such as the Rustem Pasha and the lively restored Arasta and Bedesten bazaars. You may also see some beautiful Ottoman bridges in Edirne and around the area, such as Uzunkopru, which was also built by the architect Sinan. In the evening You will be transferred back to your cruise ship around 7 pm.
Added Value:
*Great introduction to the former Ottoman capital city of Edirne
*The tour covers the main highlights of the city
Tour Duration : 10-11 hours
Tour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: Partial
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a cheaffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
-
Istanbul - At Your Leisure Tour - 8 Hours (Provided by Travelive)
At Your Leisure Option: Please see below for details on this option.
You decide where to go and what to see.
Included:
- Private Luxury Sedan with English-Speaking guide and driver for 8 hours
- Bottled water in the vehicle
- Gratuities to guide and driver**
Excluded:
- Cost of meals and refreshments other than bottled water
- Entrance fees
- Items of personal nature
*Mileage restrictions may apply.
**Gratuities have been prepaid. Additional gratuities are at guest’s discretion.
-
Istanbul: Highlights of Istanbul
Meeting your private guide at the lobby of your property, you will have a short ride to the Old City and start your explorations with a stroll through the famed Hippodrome Square which was once the sporting and social center of Constantinople that hosted the chariot races until early Middle Ages. The Roman Hippodrome of the glorious past displays today the famous the Obelisk of Theodosius and the Serpentine Column dating back to 5th century BC. Istanbul boasts its monumental shrines of different faiths and Blue Mosque is probably one of the most famed masterpieces of Ottoman religious architecture. Standing in great prestige with its six minarets and perfect proportioned dome, it is named after its Turquoise colored tiles made of quartz minerals. Ottoman Sultans preferred to pray in this timeless shrine due to its incomparable beauty until when the empire collapsed after the World War I. You will continue your morning touring the magnificent home of the Ottoman Sultans; Topkapi Palace! Located on the very cape of the peninsula where Constantinople was founded, Topkapi Palace was built as the center of administration of the Ottoman Empire when the city was conquered by Ottoman Turks in 1453 AD. Today, you will have an intense tour of the palace going through the corridors and different sections of also the Harem where Sultan lived with his family members. There is a strong impact of oriental motives and patterns in the interior décor that is best reflected by the beautiful Iznik Tiles adorning the walls of Harem. Leaving the Harem through the “Golden Corridor”, you will reach the inner courtyard to visit the Treasury that displays exclusive examples of jewelry and accessories which were dressed by the Sultans or were given as gifts to ambassadors. You will carry on to the Basilica of Saint Sophia, one of the largest Christian shrines ever built in history. Adorned with rich mosaic murals, colossal columns and exposition of divine serenity, Saint Sophia is a true world heritage that has accommodated various faiths throughout the different periods of history and is currently operated as a museum displaying Byzantine art and architecture embellished by Ottoman taste. Later in the afternoon, you will find yourself drifting through one of the earliest shopping malls ever built in history, Grand Bazaar which maintains its charm and volume of business to the modern day with its indoor and outdoor sections. Istanbul has been the center of commerce and trade between the Orient and the Occident even before the arrival of Ottomans. Nuru Osmaniye District (Glamour of the Ottomans) was where the Genoese and Venetian merchants had their ware houses where they store their inventory of brass, copper, rugs and tiles before they were loaded on the ships to sail to Venice and Genoa. Today, Nuru Osmaniye District is where you can find the most reputable stores with wide collections of jewelry, antiques and oriental rugs. Concluding your day of explorations of the most famed edifices of Istanbul, you will be transferred back to your property.
|
09/26/2025 |
09/27/2025 |
