Quick Details
Adult
(Ages 10 - 99)
€ 88
Child
(Ages 3 - 9)
€ 83
Infant
(Ages 0-2)
Free
Private
Starts with min 2 people
€ 704
Shore Excursions Istanbul: Topkapi Palace and Harem Guided Tour
Experience the magnificence of the Ottoman Empire with this exclusive shore excursion, tailored for cruise guests.
Start your journey directly at Galataport, where your expert guide will meet you and lead you to the tram for a quick and scenic 15-minute ride to the historic Sultanahmet district. As you glide through the city, you’ll begin to feel the rich history surrounding you, setting the stage for the incredible landmarks you’re about to explore.
Your first stop is the Topkapi Palace, the heart of Ottoman imperial power. Skip the long lines with your pre-reserved tickets, and step into the grandeur of this magnificent palace. Wander through its vast courtyards and exquisite gardens, where sultans once lived and ruled. Marvel at the detailed architecture and immerse yourself in the stories of the Ottoman court, from lavish ceremonies to political intrigue. Don’t miss the outer terraces, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus.
Next, step behind the doors of the Harem, an exclusive and private world where the sultans’ families lived. With your guide, uncover the fascinating history of the royal harem and learn about the powerful women who shaped the empire. Explore the private chambers, each beautifully decorated and filled with stories hidden from most visitors.
Your journey concludes with a return to Sultanahmet Square, where your guide will assist with further exploration of the city or help you return to Galataport by tram.
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- Starting Point: Galataport
- Sultanahmet District
- Topkapi Palace
- Topkapi Palace Harem
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- Skip the lines at Topkapi Palace and explore the rich history of the Ottoman Empire with pre-reserved tickets.
- Learn about the mysteries of the Harem, where sultans and their closest allies lived in luxury and secrecy.
- Walk through the palace gardens and admire breathtaking views over the Golden Horn and Bosphorus.
- Enjoy seamless pickup at Galataport, bypassing the usual traffic and heading straight to the ancient heart of Sultanahmet.
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- Pickup from Galata port (tram ride to Old Town)
- Skip-the-line tickets for Topkapi Palace & Harem
- Expert and licensed guides
- Headsets to hear the guide better
- Small-group walking tours or private tours
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- Food and drinks
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- The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and people with reduced mobility.
- This tour is not suitable for strollers.
- You will have to pass through airport-style security.
- Sites may be closed unannounced due to high-level state visits.
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- This tour is exclusively for cruise ship passengers. Guests arriving in Istanbul by other means should consider our standard guided tours.
- Clients must arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the start of the tour. This is due to the timed entry of the tickets.
- Tickets are timed and expire within 5 to 10 minutes.
- Please be advised that it is not possible to join the tour after it has commenced.
- Tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.
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Once your ship docks at Galata port, make your way outside the terminal. Walk to the Galata port Clock Tower Square, Your guide will be holding a sign that says “Walks In Europe” next to the clock tower. Here is the Google link