Istanbul Highlights for Cruise Passengers: What to See on Your Sea Jouney

Istanbul is a city full of history and culture, making it a must-see stop on your sea journey. For cruise passengers, there are many highlights to explore in a short time. From ancient landmarks to vibrant markets, Istanbul offers something for everyone.

Updated Date : 28.08.2024

Turkey is a country almost covered by the sea on all sides. This is why there are so many people traveling to Turkey by sea. The number of cruisers traveling to Turkey is increasing day by day. There are 15 cruise ports in Turkey. Below you can find ports’ name:

  1. Alanya Cruise Port
  2. Antalya Cruise Port
  3. Bodrum Cruise Port
  4. Bozcaada Cruise Port
  5. Canakkale Cruise Port
  6. Cesme Cruise Port
  7. Dalyan Cruise Port
  8. Dikili Cruise Port
  9. Fethiye Cruise Port
  10. Istanbul Cruise Port
  11. Izmir Cruise Port
  12. Kusadasi Cruise Port
  13. Marmaris Cruise Port
  14. Sinop Cruise Port
  15. Trabzon Cruise Port

The most preferred ports for cruise ships in Turkey are Istanbul, Izmir and Kusadasi.

This blog will provide travel tips for guests traveling to Istanbul. For guests who traveling by cruiser, Istanbul E-pass is the best option to arrange visits in Istanbul. Istanbul E-pass is a digital pass which it has more than 80 attractions. After having an E-pass E-pass sharing customer control panel, from that panel you will able to control all attractions. Also, free customer service will make you feel more confortable during your visit. Istanbul E-pass customer service is available from 8 am to 00:30 am. For more informaiton, you can contact from here.

Galataport: Cruise Port Connecting Istanbul to the Sea

Galataport is the world's first underground cruise terminal. Galataport cruise port has a daily capacity of 3 ships and 15 thousand passengers. Also, it has a unique cruise port, a luxury hotel, cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops. There are also office spaces and two major art museums. All of this is set along a 1,2 km waterfront on the Bosphorus.

Top Things to Do in Istanbul for Cruise Travelers

Galataport is located in a central location. For for cruise passengers, it is more easy to visit touristic sights. We have prepared a list of things to do in Istanbul for cruise passengers.

Dolmabahce Palace

The nearest attraction to Galataport is Dolmabahce Palace. Dolmabahçe Palace is a mysterious historic palace in Istanbul. It was built in the 19th century and served as the main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire. The palace is known for its grand architecture and luxurious interior. Visitors can explore its beautiful rooms, large halls, and impressive gardens. The palace is located along the Bosphorus, offering stunning views of the water. Also, as an Istanbul E-pass we provide guided tour with professional english speaking lincesed guide. You can skip the ticket line with us and make better use of your limited time.

Galata Tower

The second nearest attration to Galataport is Galata Tower. It was built in the 14th century and offers great views of the city. The tower is located in the Galata district and is one of the tallest structures in the area. Visitors can climb to the top for a panoramic view of Istanbul. It is a popular spot for tourists and a symbol of the city's rich history. With an Istanbul E-pass, it is possible to get discount Galata Tower ticket.

Sultanahmet Area

The Sultanahmet area is the historic heart of Istanbul. It is home to famous landmarks like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, Archaelogical museum and Topkapi Palace. Visitors can explore ancient buildings, beautiful mosques, and museums. The area is full of history and is a must-see for anyone visiting Istanbul. Sultanahmet is also known for its charming streets, cafes, and shops. Here you can find some attractins whic it can be done with an Istanbul E-pass. Istanbul E-pass provides easy access to these attractions with professional english speaking guide.

The apple of Istanbul's eye: Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque is a famous mosque in Istanbul. It was built in the 17th century and is known for its six minarets. The mosque has beautiful blue tiles inside, which give it its name. The large dome and spacious interior make it a popular attraction. It is still an active place of worship today. Istanbul E-pass do everyday Blue Mosque & Hippodrome guided tour everyday. Do not miss chance to get more information about mysterious of Blue Mosque.

Hagia Sophia is an iconic building in Istanbul. It was originally a church. The building is famous for its large dome and beautiful artwork. Hagia Sophia is a key symbol of the city's long history. With an Istanbul E-pass you can experience outer visit guided tour of Hagia Sophia. Also, our guide can provide skip the ticket line.

Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern is an ancient underground water reservoir in Istanbul. It was built in the 6th century during the Byzantine Empire. The cistern is famous for its hundreds of marble columns and its eerie, atmospheric lighting. Visitors can walk on platforms above the water and see the famous Medusa head sculptures. The Basilica Cistern is a unique and mysterious place to explore. With an Istanbul E-pass, you can skip the line at Basilica Cistern.

Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is a large and famous market in Istanbul. It has been around since the 15th century. The market is full of shops selling jewelry, carpets, spices, and souvenirs. The Grand Bazaar has many colorful and narrow streets. It is a lively place where visitors can shop and experience the local culture. How about exploring the Grand Bazaar in more detail with the guide of Istanbul E-pass?

Every year, thousands of Galataport guests arriving by cruiser prefer the Istanbul E-pass. Istanbul E-pass is the most convenient and best choice for cruisers. By choosing Istanbul E-pass, they can visit more than 80 attractions in Istanbul. For more information you can visit our website or you can contact us directly here on whatsapp.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How does the Istanbul E-pass help cruise passengers?

    The Istanbul E-pass is ideal for cruise passengers because it offers quick and easy access to major attractions in a short amount of time. It also includes skip-the-line benefits and guided tours to help make the most of your visit.

  • What are the main cruise ports in Turkey?

    Turkey has 15 cruise ports, including Alanya, Antalya, Bodrum, Bozcaada, Canakkale, Cesme, Dalyan, Dikili, Fethiye, Istanbul, Izmir, Kusadasi, Marmaris, Sinop, and Trabzon. The most popular ports for cruise ships are Istanbul, Izmir, and Kusadasi.

  • What is Galataport?

    Galataport is the world’s first underground cruise terminal. Located along the Bosphorus, it features a unique cruise port, luxury hotel, cafes, restaurants, boutique shops, office spaces, and two major art museums. It can accommodate up to 3 ships and 15,000 passengers daily.

  • What are some must-see attractions near Galataport?

    Nearby attractions include Dolmabahçe Palace, Galata Tower, and the Sultanahmet area. These landmarks are easily accessible and offer a glimpse into Istanbul’s rich history and culture.

Popular Istanbul E-pass Attractions

Guided Tour Topkapi Palace Museum Guided Tour

Topkapi Palace Museum Guided Tour Price without pass €52 Free with Istanbul E-pass View attraction

Guided Tour Hagia Sophia (Outer Explanation) Guided Tour

Hagia Sophia (Outer Explanation) Guided Tour Price without pass €14 Ticket is not included View attraction

Guided Tour Basilica Cistern Guided Tour

Basilica Cistern Guided Tour Price without pass €30 Free with Istanbul E-pass View attraction

Reservation Required Bosphorus Cruise Tour with Dinner and Turkish Shows

Bosphorus Cruise Tour with Dinner and Turkish Shows Price without pass €35 Free with Istanbul E-pass View attraction

Guided Tour Dolmabahce Palace with Harem Guided Tour

Dolmabahce Palace with Harem Guided Tour Price without pass €42 Free with Istanbul E-pass View attraction

Walk In Whirling Dervishes Show

Whirling Dervishes Show Price without pass €20 Free with Istanbul E-pass View attraction

Reservation Required Sunset Yacht Cruise on Bosphorus 2 Hours

Sunset Yacht Cruise on Bosphorus 2 Hours Price without pass €50 Free with Istanbul E-pass View attraction

Walk In Maiden´s Tower Entrance with Audio Guide

Maiden´s Tower Entrance with Audio Guide Price without pass €28 Free with Istanbul E-pass View attraction

Reservation Required Pub Crawl Istanbul

Pub Crawl Istanbul Price without pass €25 Free with Istanbul E-pass View attraction

Reservation Required E-Sim Internet Data in Turkey

E-Sim Internet Data in Turkey Price without pass €15 Free with Istanbul E-pass View attraction

Walk In Camlica Tower Observation Deck Entrance

Camlica Tower Observation Deck Entrance Price without pass €24 Free with Istanbul E-pass View attraction

Walk In Sapphire Observation Deck Istanbul

Sapphire Observation Deck Istanbul Price without pass €15 Free with Istanbul E-pass View attraction