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- Istanbul Highlights with Cistern
- Approx. 7 Hours
- Live Tour Guide
- Private A/C Minivan
- Tickets Excluded
- Walking Intensive
- Book Now & Pay on Arrival
Description
Istanbul Highlights with Cistern
Experience Istanbul’s iconic sites and the sunken palace of Basilica Cistern. A private guided tour through the heart of the city.
What's Included
- Professional Guide: Licensed, English-speaking expert guide throughout the tour.
- Private Transport: Modern, air-conditioned vehicle reserved exclusively for you.
- All-Inclusive Fees: All parking fees and local taxes are covered.
- Flexible Pickup: Meet & greet service at the port or your hotel.
- Entrance Fees: Admission tickets to Ephesus and other historical sites.
- Lunch: Lunch is not included.
- Drinks: Beverages during lunch or throughout the day.
- Gratuities: Optional tips for your professional guide and driver.
Itinerary
Meeting at the Port: Your private guide will welcome you at Istanbul Port with a sign bearing your name. We will then depart for the Old City, the historic capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires.
· Hippodrome Square: Start at the ancient center of Constantinople, where chariot races and political riots once shaped history. See the Egyptian Obelisk and the Serpentine Column.
· Basilica Cistern: Explore the largest ancient cistern in Istanbul. Built during the Byzantine era, this "Sunken Palace" offers a cool, silent escape from the city streets, featuring stunning lighting and the famous ancient Medusa head pillar bases.
· Hagia Sophia: Visit the architectural masterpiece built in 532 AD by Roman Emperor Justinian I. Once the largest church in Christendom, it stands today as a magnificent symbol of Istanbul’s multi-layered history.
· Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque): Just a short walk away, admire the only mosque with six minarets and its interior decorated with over 20,000 famous blue Iznik tiles.
· Grand Bazaar: Step into one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. Opened in 1461, this historical labyrinth features over 60 streets and thousands of shops. It is the perfect place to find authentic jewelry, hand-painted pottery, exotic spices, and world-famous Turkish carpets.
Return to Port: After your journey through history, we will have scenic 20-minute drive back to the port or town center. Our services conclude here.
Important Dress Code Notice: Please note that Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque are active places of worship. Strict dress codes apply:
· Shoulders and knees must be covered for both men and women (No shorts, mini-skirts, or sleeveless shirts).
· Women must cover their hair with a scarf. We recommend bringing your own scarf for hygiene and comfort.
· Shoes must be removed before entering the carpeted areas.
Tour Prices
| Istanbul Highlights with Cistern | |
|---|---|
| Adult (2–3 pax) | $135.00 ( per person up to 3 people.) — A/C Minivan with 6 Seater |
| Adult (4–5 pax) | $99.00 ( per person up to 5 people.) — A/C Minivan with 12 Seater |
| Adult (6–7 pax) | $89.00 ( per person up to 7 people.) — A/C Minivan with 12 Seater |
| Adult (8–10 pax) | $79.00 ( per person up to 10 people.) — A/C Minivan with 12 Seater |
| Adult (11–15 pax) | $73.00 ( per person up to 15 people.) — A/C Midivan with 27 Seater |
| Adult (16–20 pax) | $65.00 ( per person up to 20 people.) — A/C Midivan with 27 Seater |
| Child / Infant | Child: $40.00 (3-7 years) | Infant: $0.00 (0-3 years) |