TÜRSAB • License No. 4035
Private Galataport Istanbul Shore Excursion
Istanbul Old City & Bosphorus – Private Tour for Cruise Passengers
Discover the highlights of Istanbul with a fully private shore excursion from Galataport Istanbul.
Whether your ship stays for a few hours or overnight, this tour is designed to help you experience the city’s most iconic monuments, vibrant streets, and breathtaking Bosphorus views with the comfort of a licensed local guide and a flexible itinerary.
Why Choose a Private Galataport Tour?
Meet directly at Galataport
No large cruise groups
Skip unnecessary waiting
Licensed professional guide
Flexible pacing and interests
Guaranteed return to the ship
Tour Highlights
6
Hagia Sophia
Explore the architectural masterpiece that has served as a church, mosque, and museum through nearly 1,500 years of history.
Blue Mosque
Admire the elegant domes, minarets, and famous blue İznik tiles of Istanbul’s most iconic mosque.
Hippodrome Square
Discover the heart of Byzantine Constantinople, including the Obelisk of Theodosius and other ancient monuments.
Basilica Cistern
Descend into the atmospheric underground world of columns, reflections, and Medusa heads.
Grand Bazaar or Spice Market
Enjoy free time for shopping, photography, Turkish delight, spices, ceramics, and local crafts.
Bosphorus Panorama or Cruise (Optional)
Depending on your available time, we can include a scenic Bosphorus cruise or a panoramic drive along the waterfront.
Suggested Itinerary (6–7 Hours)
08:30
Meet at Galataport
08:45
Transfer to Sultanahmet
09:00
Hagia Sophia
10:00
Blue Mosque
10:30
Hippodrome
11:00
Basilica Cistern
12:00
Lunch or free time
13:00
Grand Bazaar / Spice Market
14:30
Bosphorus panorama (optional)
15:30
Return to Galataport
The itinerary can be shortened to 4–5 hours for guests with limited port time.
Included
Licensed private guide
Private transportation when needed
Galataport pickup and drop-off
Local taxes
Not Included
Entrance tickets
Lunch
Bosphorus cruise ticket (if selected)
Personal expenses
Ideal For
First-time visitors to Istanbul
Cruise passengers
Couples and families
Travelers who prefer a relaxed pace
Guests interested in history, culture, food, and photography
Walking & Accessibility
The Old City includes some walking on stone and uneven surfaces. We can adapt the route for guests with reduced mobility, strollers, or slower walking pace.
Why This Tour Is Different
Unlike standard cruise excursions, this experience is completely private. You can spend more time at the places that interest you most, skip the ones that do not, stop for photos whenever you wish, and enjoy genuine local insights rather than a scripted group commentary.