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Overview HighlightsItineraryWhat to ExpectFAQGallery

Istanbul Highlights Tour 4 Days

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  • 4 Days
  • Small Group or Private Tour
  • Hotel Options
  • Daily Departure Guaranteed
  • English or Spanish
  • 7/24 Support

Discover the perfect introduction to Istanbul Highlights tour, where centuries of Byzantine and Ottoman history meet vibrant modern life. Sail along the Bosphorus, marvel at the architectural wonders of Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia, and lose yourself in the colors of the Spice Market and Grand Bazaar. This 4-day Istanbul Highlights tour is ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded, immersive experience with seamless logistics and expert guidance.

Highlights

Cruise along the Bosphorus between Europe and Asia

Visit Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and the Hippodrome

Explore Dolmabahce Palace and Rustem Pasha Mosque

Shop at the lively Spice Market and Grand Bazaar

Enjoy expert-guided tours and comfortable airport transfers

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive in Istanbul & Transfer

Welcome to Istanbul! Upon arrival, you will be greeted by your driver and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may choose to join an optional Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Turkish entertainment.

Optional Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Turkish Entertainment
We will pick you up around 7:30 PM for an unforgettable evening on the Bosphorus. Enjoy a delicious Turkish dinner onboard while watching cultural performances such as folk dances, belly dancing, and live music. The cruise ends around midnight, followed by a transfer back to your hotel.

 

Meal: None
Overnight in Istanbul

Day 2Istanbul Bosphorus Tour

Meet your guide at your hotel and start your day with a visit to the beautifully tiled Rustem Pasha Mosque, designed by the master architect Sinan.
Continue with a regular boat trip on the Bosphorus, where you will marvel at the opulent Dolmabahçe and Beylerbeyi Palaces, wooden Ottoman villas, and the impressive Rumeli Fortress (viewed from the sea).
End the day at the bustling Spice Market, perfect for sampling local delicacies and shopping.

MEAL: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight in Istanbul

 

 

Day 3Old City Tour

After breakfast, join a walking tour of Istanbul’s Old City. Visit the imperial Topkapi Palace, the magnificent Hagia Sophia, the iconic Blue Mosque, and the historic Hippodrome, where chariot races once captivated Byzantine crowds. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich imperial heritage.

MEAL: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight in Istanbul

 

Day 4Depart From Istanbul

After breakfast, depending on your flight time, you will be transferred to Istanbul Airport for your departure.
Meal: Breakfast
End of Services

Inclusions & Exclusions

Includes

  • All sightseeing tours as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Professional, licensed English-speaking guide
  • All transportation (including public transportation )
  • Professional English-speaking guide
  • Entrance fees to museums and historical sites
  • Lunch during tours (vegetarian, vegan, and halal options available)

Excludes

  • Personal expenses
  • Drinks during meals
  • Dinner
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips for guide and driver

what the expect ?

  • Guided Tours: Led by licensed, English-speaking guides
  • Smooth Logistics: All transfers, entrance fees, and local transport arranged
  • Comfortable Stays: Options for 3, 4, or 5-star accommodations
  • Local Immersion: Walking tours, local dining, and authentic cultural touchpoints

FAQ

What are the most popular shore excursions in Turkey?

Top-rated Turkey shore excursions include:

Istanbul Old Cit Tour: Explore Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar with a licensed guide.

Kusadasi Day Tour: Take a guided day trip to Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities.

Antalya City Tour: Discover Kaleici Old Town, Hadrian’s Gate, and stunning Mediterranean views.

Ephesus Tour from Izmir Port: Visit Ephesus on a full-day guided tour, just over 1 hour away. Perfect for cruise passengers docking in Alsancak Port.

Bodrum City Tour: Enjoy a Bodrum city tour, visiting Bodrum Castle, the ancient theater, Myndos Gate, and the charming marina area.

These tours are ideal for cruise passengers seeking culture, history, and comfort.

How do I book a shore excursion in Turkey?

You can book directly on our website before your cruise arrival. Early booking ensures availability and better rates compared to onboard excursions. All tours include port pick-up and drop-off and are designed to align with your ship’s schedule.

Are shore excursions in Turkey suitable for families with children?

Yes! Many excursions are family-friendly. For example, Ephesus tours are engaging for all ages, and Istanbul Tours offers activities like Bosphorus cruises and visits to museums or aquariums. We accommodate different age groups with flexible pacing and optional stroller-friendly routes.

What should I wear and bring on a shore excursion?

Wear lightweight clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and bring a sun hat, sunscreen, and water. Modest attire is required at religious sites. Don’t forget your cruise card, photo ID, and local currency for small purchases or tips.

What are the best shore excursions from Kusadasi Port?

The best excursions include:

Ephesus Ancient City Tour

Biblical Ephesus Tour

Miletus and Didyma Tour

House of the Virgin Mary & Temple of Artemis Ephesus Tour
All tours return on time to the port and are tailored for cruise schedules.

Are English-speaking guides included in shore excursions?

Yes. All Turkey port tours include professional, English-speaking guides licensed by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. They provide historical context and personalized service throughout your trip.

Can I book a private shore excursion in Turkey?

Yes, private Turkey shore excursions are available from every port. These offer flexibility in timing and content, perfect for small groups, couples, or those seeking a VIP experience. You can fully customize your tour, from historic sites to culinary stops

Are your tours cruise-timed and guaranteed to return to port on time?

Absolutely. Our shore excursions in Istanbul, Kusadasi, Izmir, and Bodrum are aligned with your ship’s docking times. We guarantee timely return to your port with extra buffer time to ensure a worry-free experience.

How far are major attractions from the cruise ports in Turkey?

  • Kusadasi to Ephesus: ~25 minutes by car
  • Izmir Port to Ephesus: ~1 hour 15 minutes
  • Istanbul (Galataport) to Old City: ~20 minutes
  • Bodrum Port to City Tour locations (Castle, Marina, Ancient Theater): 10–20 minutes

All shore excursions are carefully timed to include travel duration and still allow ample time for sightseeing and return.

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