Pick-Up from Galataport

After disembarking from your cruise ship at Istanbul Galataport, you’ll be warmly greeted by your professional English-speaking guide at the terminal exit.
Board a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and enjoy a short scenic drive along the Bosphorus waterfront, passing Ottoman palaces, elegant mosques, and bustling neighborhoods.

Your guide will share insights about the city’s fascinating history — once known as Byzantium and later Constantinople — before arriving in Istanbul’s Old City (Sultanahmet), the heart of its ancient glory.

Hippodrome of Constantinople

Begin your walking tour in the Hippodrome, once the social and sporting center of ancient Constantinople.
Built by Roman Emperor Septimius Severus and expanded by Constantine the Great, this vast public arena hosted chariot races, political rallies, and grand celebrations.
Today, you’ll see the Serpentine Column, Egyptian Obelisk, and German Fountain — timeless monuments that reflect centuries of empire.

Fun Fact: The Hippodrome once held over 100,000 spectators and was the beating heart of Byzantine public life.

Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)

Next, visit one of the most spectacular buildings in the world — the Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture and a symbol of Istanbul’s layered history.
Originally built as a cathedral in 537 AD by Emperor Justinian I, it later became an imperial mosque and now stands as a mosque-museum hybrid open to visitors of all faiths.

Admire its stunning 40-meter dome, ancient mosaics, and calligraphic panels that beautifully merge Christian and Islamic art.
Your guide will bring to life the stories of emperors, sultans, and architects who shaped this architectural marvel.

Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)

Just across from Hagia Sophia stands the elegant Blue Mosque, one of Istanbul’s most beloved landmarks.
Built in 1616 by Sultan Ahmed I, the mosque earned its nickname from the over 20,000 hand-painted blue İznik tiles that adorn its interior.

Step inside to admire the intricate domes, stained glass windows, and graceful minarets — all part of one of the most magnificent mosques in the world that remains active for worship.

Note: Modest dress is required to enter; scarves and coverings are provided at the entrance if needed.

Topkapi Palace

Continue your journey through Ottoman grandeur at Topkapi Palace, the opulent residence of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years.
Explore its lavish courtyards, pavilions, and gardens overlooking the Bosphorus Strait.

Highlights include:

• Imperial Treasury, home to priceless jewels and artifacts, including the legendary Topkapi Dagger.

• Harem Section (optional entry), offering a glimpse into the private life of the royal family.

• Sacred Relics Room, displaying items believed to belong to prophets and early Islamic leaders.

Insider Tip: The panoramic view of the Bosphorus from the palace terraces is one of the best in Istanbul.

Grand Bazaar

Conclude your adventure at the legendary Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets.
With over 4,000 shops and 18 entrances, the bazaar offers a vibrant maze of colors, scents, and sounds.

Shop for handcrafted jewelry, textiles, ceramics, Turkish delight, and spices — or simply enjoy the experience of bargaining like a local.

Optional: Your guide can assist with recommended shops for authentic, high-quality goods.

Return to Galataport

After an unforgettable day of exploration, your driver will escort you back to Galataport, ensuring a timely return to your cruise ship.
Relax and reflect on your day — a perfect blend of Istanbul’s history, culture, and hospitality.