Pick-Up from Galataport

After disembarking from your cruise ship, you’ll be warmly greeted by your professional English-speaking guide at the Galataport Cruise Terminal.
Enjoy a comfortable ride along the Bosphorus waterfront to the Old City of Sultanahmet, where Istanbul’s most iconic monuments await.
Your guide will provide an overview of the city’s fascinating history and the empires that shaped it — Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman — as your exploration begins.

Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)

Start your journey with one of the greatest architectural marvels in human history — the Hagia Sophia.
Meaning “Divine Wisdom”, this majestic structure was completed in 537 AD under Emperor Justinian I. It served as a Byzantine cathedral for nearly 1,000 years and later as an Ottoman imperial mosque for 481 years before becoming a museum.
Today, Hagia Sophia continues to captivate visitors with its massive dome, golden mosaics, and stunning blend of Christian and Islamic art.

Did you know? When it was built, Hagia Sophia was the largest enclosed space on Earth — an engineering wonder that inspired cathedrals for centuries.

Underground Cistern (Basilica Cistern)

Descend into the mysterious Underground Cistern, one of Istanbul’s most unique and atmospheric sites.
Built in the 6th century to supply water to the Great Palace, this subterranean reservoir stretches 143 meters long and 65 meters wide, supported by 336 marble columns — many repurposed from ancient temples.
Walk along the raised platforms surrounded by glowing lights and tranquil reflections, and don’t miss the Medusa heads that form the bases of two columns — mysterious relics of the ancient world.

Topkapi Palace

Continue to the Topkapi Palace, the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years.
This sprawling complex features ornate courtyards, pavilions, and gardens overlooking the Bosphorus. Inside, you’ll find the Imperial Treasury, housing priceless jewels like the Spoonmaker’s Diamond, and the Sacred Relics Room, displaying artifacts revered in Islam.
Optional: Visit the Harem section for a glimpse into the private lives of Ottoman royalty.

Insider Tip: Don’t miss the breathtaking views of the Bosphorus and Golden Horn from the palace terraces!

Hippodrome of Constantinople

Step into the open-air Hippodrome, once the grand stadium of ancient Constantinople, built in the 3rd century by Emperor Septimius Severus.
Here, 100,000 spectators once gathered to watch thrilling chariot races and imperial ceremonies. Today, the site features historic monuments such as the Egyptian Obelisk, Serpentine Column, Column of Constantine, and German Fountain.

Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)

Across the Hippodrome lies the Blue Mosque, one of Istanbul’s most photographed landmarks.
Commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I in 1616, this grand mosque dazzles visitors with its six slender minarets, cascading domes, and interior decorated with over 20,000 handmade blue İznik tiles.
It remains an active place of worship, welcoming visitors to admire its serene beauty.

Note: Modest attire is required to enter. Scarves and coverings are available at the entrance.

Grand Bazaar

Conclude your tour at the legendary Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets.
With over 4,000 shops and 18 entrances, this colorful labyrinth offers everything from Turkish carpets and ceramics to spices, jewelry, and leather goods.
Your guide will help you navigate and find reputable shops for authentic souvenirs.

Fun Fact: The bazaar was founded in 1455 by Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, making it nearly 600 years old!

Return to Galataport

After a full day of exploring Istanbul’s historical treasures, relax as you’re driven back to Galataport, with guaranteed on-time return to your cruise ship.