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Airport & Cruise Port Transfers

Last Updated on August 17, 2022

Efendi Travel  operates an excellent  Istanbul private transfer service  to and from  Istanbul 's two airports: Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gökçen Airport , and the  cruise ship docks  at  Karaköy  and  Salıpazar   that's far more comfortable and reliable than a  taxi , but only slightly more expensive.  Read this...

They can also take you to or from the  Pendik YHT High-Speed Train station  on the  Asian side  of the  Bosphorus .

At Istanbul Airport (IGA), when you emerge from the secure Customs area, turn left  and your  Efendi Travel  liaison staff member will be waiting for you, holding  a sign with your name on it . He'll help you with your luggage and lead you to the vehicle, most commonly a spacious, comfortable air-conditioned minivan or midivan.

Your  private vehicle —it's just for you (and your travel companions, if you have any). It is  not  a public shuttle. Your private driver will take you directly to your hotel, where he will help you with your luggage to the hotel.

Whether driving from the airport to your hotel, or from your hotel to the airport, or on any other trip, your driver will be  polite  and  helpful , dressed in  suit and tie , will  drive carefully  and  observe traffic regulations ,  will not smoke , and will offer you complimentary refreshments  (welcome  after a long flight!).

Contact Efendi Travel for current prices.

Let me make this clear: this is  not a common airport shuttle. It is a private transfer that only you, or others in your group will be riding in.

Surprisingly, even though the fares are not much more than for an Istanbul taxi  for some rides, and only moderately more for others, a private transfer is 1000% more  comfortable, reliable, safe  and  pleasant  than an  Istanbul taxi . As such, a private transfer constitutes  extremely good value for money .

A regular yellow  Istanbul taxi , by the way, can take two passengers comfortably, three in a bit of a squeeze, four maximum (if the driver allows someone to sit in the front passenger seat—which he usually doesn't), but a taxi may not be able to hold all of your luggage  even for three passengers, let alone four, because of the  large LNG tank in the trunk/boot (by law, Istanbul taxis are powered by natural gas). Taxis are now much more expensive than they used to be and the prices are constantly fluctuating. The Efendi Travel service is very reasonably priced in comparrison; and a ride in an  Istanbul taxi   is often not  a pleasant experience .  More...

Efendi Travel , by the way, also operates  three good moderately-priced hotels :  Sultan's Inn ,  Deniz Houses , and  Naz Wooden House , and several  budget studio apartments worth considering for your stay in  Istanbul .  More...

Airport Transfer Service Efendi Travel Yeni Akbıyık Caddesi  No: 30 Sultanahmet ,  Istanbul , Turkey Tel: +90 (212) 638 6343, or 638 6344, or 638 3746 Fax: +90 (212) 638 3922

—by  Tom Brosnahan

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Istanbul Cruise Port Transfer

Istanbul cruise transfer, exclusive private transfers ‍.

Don't compromise your comfort while travelling. Get an Istanbul Airtport S Class transfer.

Hassle-free Tours from Istanbul Cruise Port

We make hassle-free connections between New Istanbul cruise port and airports.

Istanbul Airport to Istanbul Cruise Port Transfer

You'll never worry about the transportation to Istanbul Cruise Port.

Istanbul Cruise Port to Airport

You'll never worry about the transportation. Just enjoy the ride.

Comfortable, Safe and Private Istanbul Cruise Port Transfer

Istanbul cruise port transfers, istanbul city transfer.

Whether Istanbul cruise port is a mid-point of your cruise trip or the final destination, a private Istanbul city transfer will make your trip a silky smooth.

Istanbul Airport Transfer

Istanbul has already a great new airport. It is located 40 km from Istanbul Cruise Port. Istanbul airport transfer service will make your trip hassle-free.

Istanbul Port Transfer: Galata Port Istanbul

Galata region in Istanbul offers home to some of the most beautiful ports, and it is also the main cruise transfer point for people who want to get from Istanbul port to the airport. In other words, it is one of the key locations for Istanbul Private Transfers .

Istanbul Port Transfer

At Istanbul Cruise Transfer, we know that getting from one point to another is much easier than it seems. We are proud of our services and always strive to make our customers' journeys as smooth and safe as possible.

Istanbul Port Transfer Service

Once you get on the transfers van or sedan, you'll be escorted to your hotel or villa by qualified drivers, who will get you there as quickly as possible. The transfer portion of your journey will take up the least amount of time, which means more time for sightseeing!

Istanbul Cruise Port Transfer Fleet

Cruise port transfers in Istanbul airports with Mercedes Vito

Istanbul Cruise port transfers in Istanbul airports with Mercedes Sprinter.

Galataport Transfer: Seamless Istanbul Transportations

With a special cover system implemented for the first time in the world, the historical port will continue to be the gateway of Istanbul to the world from the sea. Galataport has located 0 km from the city center and 40 km from the airport. Because it is located very close to Karakoy and Kabatas regions, there are plenty of public transportation options. ‍ And of course, we have great service for people who don't want to deal with the famous traffic of Istanbul. Yes, Galataport transfer service as known as Istanbul cruise port transfer

How to get an Istanbul Private Transfer service?

Istanbul is one of the world’s most visited cities, with good reason. It’s a bustling metropolis that’s rich with history. You can spend a day exploring the Galata Tower, the Spice Market, and the Hagia Sophia, or you can spend an evening in Beyoglu, eating dinner and drinking wine. But if you’re flying into Istanbul, getting from the airport to the hotel where you’ll be staying can be a headache. You don’t want to take a taxi from the airport because you’ll spend hours in traffic and you’ll end up spending a fortune. Instead, We recommend getting a vehicle by hire service, in other words, hire a Istanbul private transfer service. You can book a Istanbul cruise port transfer or Istanbul private transfer with just one-click.

Pay at Cruise Port Transfer

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Home > Istanbul New Cruise Port: Galataport – Your 2024 Guide

Istanbul New Cruise Port: Galataport – Your 2024 Guide

Written by our local expert Mehmet

Mehmet is digital nomad who was born in Istanbul, Türkiye and now calls the Balkans region his home-office.

If your cruise ship docks at the Istanbul cruise port, you may well find that the included shore excursions are expensive or lack any real character and only go to the same designated tourist attractions.

But there are so many amazing things to do on an Istanbul cruise stop that it makes sense to go it alone and find out what the city is really like. The Istanbul Galataport is right in the heart of it all, so it couldn’t be easier to make your own way around the city. In fact, the area itself is well worth exploring as an up-and-coming tourist destination in its own right.

In my guide, I give you all the info you need to navigate the Istanbul cruise port terminals AND your transportation options to see the major sights or get to the airport.

Visit nearby sights like the Galata Tower, Taksim Square , and Istiklal Street. Get the best views of the city from the water on a Bosphorus Cruise, take in some cultural sights at a Whirling Dervishes show, or head out on a locally guided tour of the city’s highlights.

Just across the Golden Horn, you will find the main attractions like the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque , and Topkapi Palace Museums.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

What Port Do Cruise Ships Use In Istanbul

New Galataport Project

Galataport Cruise Port, also called the New Galataport, is the main access point to the city for thousands of visitors each year. It’s the first underground cruise ship terminal like it in the world and can hold up to three full cruise ships at a time.

It is situated right at the entrance of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn, meaning that it has fantastic access to the city and all of the sights.

As it’s one of the busiest ports in Istanbul, cruise ships can also dock a few kilometers further down at Salipazari Pier, near Dolmabahce Palace.

How Do You Get Around Istanbul From The Cruise Port

As it’s right in the heart of the city, you can easily get around on foot from any Galataport terminal. The trendy Istanbul neighborhoods of Galata, Karakoy, and the famous Tophane clock tower are all just a short stroll away.

The main tourist areas are within walking distance, roughly a 30-minute walk from the Istanbul cruise terminal.

If you don’t want to walk, you can visit the main tourist areas like Sultanahmet, Galata, and Taksim by tram. Take the Bagcilar-Kabatas tram (T1 line) from Tophane Station, or alternatively, you can also travel by public bus.

Istanbul is an easy city to get around with a network of buses, metro lines, trams, and the Marmaray. Route info is available from cruise port information.

Get a public transport card, known as an IstanbulKart, from the kiosks or yellow ticket machines at the station. Transport cards cost 70 Turkish Lira, with individual tram rides costing around 15 Turkish Lira each.

There are lots of tram stations located all along Meclis-i Mebusan Boulevard (opposite the Istanbul New Cruise terminal).

• ​Istanbul Public Transport Guide

Head to the Sultanahmet district for its best attractions like the Spice Bazaar, Grand Bazaar, Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. The ride from Istanbul port to Sultanahmet tram stop takes around 10 minutes one way, and the trams run every 5 to 10 minutes.

There are also plenty of taxis available if you don’t want to take public transportation. A taxi to the city center should take around 10 minutes and cost no more than 100 Turkish Lira. Though they are more expensive, they are a good option if you aren’t confident in navigating your own way around the city center.

Some cruise lines may also offer an easy shuttle service to the city center for an additional fee, another convenient option if you want to save time. These are generally more expensive but can be shared with fellow passengers.

How Far Is The Cruise Terminal From Istanbul Airport

The city’s main airport, Istanbul Airport , is located in Arnavutkoy around 45 kilometres away from Istanbul city centre.

Public Transport

The best way to get from Istanbul Cruise Ship Terminal to Istanbul Airport is by public transport by metro. The journey takes about an hour. Take the T1 tram line from Karakoy to Yenikapı Metro Station, then use the M11 line to get to the airport.

There is no direct bus service at this time, though buses can be used, they will take more time.

• ​Istanbul Airport To Sultanahmet Guide
• ​Istanbul Airport To Taksim Guide
• ​SAW Airport To City Center Guide

Another option is to take a taxi. Even though it’s only a 40-minute drive north of Istanbul cruise port, it is scheduled for some extra time for traffic as the city can be gridlocked in places.

It’s also best to always agree on a price with the taxi driver or ask them to turn the meter on to ensure you aren’t overcharged. The journey should cost around 250 Turkish Liras.

Private Transfer

It’s also possible to book private transfers in advance if you want complete peace of mind – although this will cost more generally. From my experience, the taxis are reliable and friendly, but if you are not confident talking to someone with a different language, this could be a good option.

Get a quote on your private transfers here.

Brands we use and trust, is the istanbul cruise port, galataport, worth a visit.

Totally yes!

Opened in August 2021, Galataport is Istanbul’s latest tourist attraction and one of the newest cruise ports in Turkey, where gastronomy and art are proudly showcased to the rest of the world.

The entire Galataport complex takes up around 29,000 square meters, stretching out over the city center’s Karakoy coastline. Within Galataport, there is a port hotel and a lively entertainment district with a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants.

The port can accommodate around 15,000 visitors a day, so it always feels like a vibrant and busy part of the city. Sightsee, shop, or relax at one of the many third-wave coffee shops while you watch boats pass by along the river.

Of course, being a hub for Istanbul cruises, there is also modern passport control, check-in, waiting areas, and plenty of cruise port info points.

Where To Eat At Istanbul Galataport

With so many options to choose from, knowing where to eat around Galataport can be a difficult choice.

SaltBae Burger

YouTube sensation Salt Bae has brought his signature Nusr-Et restaurant vibes to Karakoy in the form of SaltBae Burger. While, in my opinion, the burgers aren’t the best in town, the views and waiter theatrics make it an unforgettable experience.

A very popular spot is Liman, one of the port’s oldest restaurants. Liman opened its doors in 1947, and it was even once managed by Turkish leader Ataturk’s former chef, so to say it has historical importance is an understatement. White linen tables give the restaurant a classy ambiance, while the mix of Turkish and international dishes means you have plenty of choices when it comes to the menu.

For Japanese-style fine dining with Bosphorus views , Roka is hard to beat. Expect options like beef ginger and sesame dumplings, California maki, crispy fried shrimp, and sushi. The wine list is also huge, and there are some great cocktails to get stuck into.

İBB Cihangir Sosyal Tesisleri

On the other end of the spectrum is the hugely popular İBB Cihangir Sosyal Tesisleri, just across the main street from the port. You may have to wait for a table as the restaurant is extremely popular with locals and tourists alike. Still, the reward is extremely affordable authentic Turkish food with spectacular views over the city and the river.

Muutto Anatolian Tapas Bar

If you like meze and street food, Muutto Anatolian Tapas Bar brings the Spanish style of eating to Turkey with small plates of all of the best parts of Ottoman Empire-inspired cuisine. It’s a great place to eat for larger families and groups, and you can try so many different dishes.

Hafız Mustafa 1864 Galataport

For one of the best desserts in town, make your way to Hafız Mustafa 1864 Galataport. An outlet of one of Istanbul’s most famous dessert shops, it’s filled with beautiful delights like baklava, handmade ice cream, kadayif, and ornately decorated cakes.

Things To Do At Galataport Istanbul

Meclis-i mebusan boulevard.

The first thing you will come across when leaving your Istanbul cruise is the busy Meclis-i Mebusan Boulevard. It’s the main street that runs adjacent to the river and connects the port to the rest of the city. Here, you can find lots of fantastic local cafes, restaurants, and shops. You could easily lose a few hours just exploring this area.

Istanbul Modern Art Museum

The contemporary art museum is one of the main tourist attractions at Galataport, with five floors filled with both Turkish and international pieces. You can also make use of the attached library, cafe, and gift store on the ground floor or attend one of the many workshops on the upper levels.

Galataport Events

There are always events happening at Galataport; the ones on now include:

The events currently happening at Galataport Istanbul include:

• A Vision To Shape The Future Exhibition: this exhibition is located in the O2 Block and is open from 11:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M.
• The Little Prince Exhibition: this exhibition can be found on the M Block Upper Floor and operates from 10:00 A.M. to 10:00 P.M.
• Istanbul Modern Current Exhibitions: these exhibitions are being held at Istanbul Modern

For more specific details about these events, you may visit the Galataport events website here .

Istanbul Museum Of Painting And Sculpture

For something less crowded, head just across the road to the IRHM (İstanbul Resim ve Heykel Müzesi). Not only is there fantastic architecture in the terminal building itself, but it’s packed with large collections of Turkish paintings and artworks.

There are more than 250 shops at the Galataport Mall , from top-name global brands to more local stores and outlets. Visitors come here from all over the city to hang out in the mall and window shop at all the international stores and designer outlets. Spend some time filling up your bags and spend some Turkish Lira.

Explore Karakoy

Karakoy is one of Istanbul’s liveliest neighborhoods. It’s full of boutique shops, independent restaurants, and great little cafes like Factory Karakoy. Visit in the evening to catch locals chatting along the promenade, have a drink at friendly local pubs and bars, and see the laid-back side of this busy, multicultural city.

Shore Excursions

Galata tower.

Within the Karakoy district, Galata Tower is one of the must-visit attractions. The modern museum boasts a 52-metre-high observation deck from which you can take in panoramic views of the busy city and the stunning mosque-studded skyline.

From here, you can see other popular spots, too, like the Beyoglu district, Istiklal Street (the most famous street in the city), and the buzzing Taksim Square .

Galata Bridge

A short 10-minute walk from Istanbul port is Galata Köprüsü, a bridge that spans 490 meters across the Golden Horn and where you’ll see local fishermen all day. This famous landmark is the joining point where the old meets the new.

From the modern port and trendy Karakoy, you will head into the old town with its rich heritage. Wander around Harborside Eminönü and visit the sprawling Spice Market and the Egyptian Bazaar.

Go On A Bosphorus Cruise

Though you might have arrived by sea, why not head out on a smaller vessel and see the sights in a totally unique way?

The mighty Bosphorus Strait divides Europe and Asia, connecting the two opposite sides of this melting pot of cultures in the city of Istanbul. Lying between the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara, learn about the historical significance of the area on one of the many cruises that run from the city’s riverbanks.

Find a Bosphorus Cruise here.

See istanbul’s best sights in sultanahmet.

Not far from Eminönü is the most famous Istanbul neighborhood of all, Sultanahmet. Take in a traditional massage at Çemberlitaş Hamamı, haggle for designer goods at the Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı), or learn about historical treasures at the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum.

Then, head out on a guided tour with a local to see the very best that the city has to offer. Get under the streets by visiting the Cistern of Theodosius, built 1600 years ago.

Learn about the complicated history of the mosque that became a church, that then became a museum, before returning to a mosque again – the enigmatic Hagia Sophia before finally gazing in awe at the intricately designed azul tiles of the Blue Mosque.

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Istanbul Cruise Port Guide

What makes istanbul’s cruise port world-class.

The Galataport cruise terminal, located underground and spanning approximately 300,000 square feet, utilizes a unique hatch system claimed to be the first of its kind globally. All facilities, such as passport control, customs, luggage operations, and access to ground transport for taxis and shore excursion buses, are situated below ground.

What cruise lines dock at the Galataport Istanbul cruise terminal?

The ones I know of are Uniworld, RCI-Royal Caribbean, Princess, Celebrity, Azamara, Cunard, Holland America, P&O UK, Marella UK, RSSC-Regent Seven Seas, Ponant, Silversea, Fred Olsen, Windstar and Celestyal.

What makes Istanbul a notable cruise destination?

Istanbul is a major port city bridging Europe and Asia with rich historical significance. It serves as a crucial transit point between the Black Sea and the Mediterranean, offering a diverse and vibrant cultural experience for you.

What is the outlook for Istanbul’s future development as a cruise destination?

Istanbul’s future development as a cruise destination looks promising, with ongoing infrastructure improvements and redevelopment efforts aimed at re-establishing the city’s appeal to tourists and cruise companies, positioning it as a significant port of call in the Mediterranean.

How can I get to the airport from the Galataport port hotel?

There are various transportation options available from the Galataport port hotel to the airport, including taxis, shuttles, and public transportation.

Now you know all about the Galataport project. This innovative underground terminal isn’t just a gateway to one of the world’s most dynamic port cities; it’s a bridge connecting you to Istanbul’s popular tourist attractions.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, the ease and accessibility of Galataport ensure your exploration of Istanbul’s wonders is as seamless as it is unforgettable.

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Istanbul Cruise Port Transfer Galataport Transportation

The Service Istanbul Galataport Transfer ; Istanbul Cruise Port Transfer; In Istanbul Galataport transportation, it provides 7/24 services to you cruise transport guests with its luxury cars on land and well-dressed drivers. When you arrive at Istanbul Galata Port by cruise, our well-dressed English-speaking assistant will be waiting for you in Istanbul Galataport to go to your hotels or take a daily Istanbul city tour.

– As airport transfer Service, we have been providing first-class service to you, our valuable guests, with our luxury vehicles and well-known English-speaking assistant, in and out of Istanbul since 2005 – To Our Distinguished Guests – We provide Departure and Return Transfer services from our Istanbul Galata Cruise Port and from Istanbul Airports to your Hotels with our Luxury Cars. In addition to this, we offer daily tour services to our esteemed guests in Istanbul. – Airport Transfer Service Comes to Mind When You Say Reliable istanbul cruise port transport Service.

Istanbul galataport Transport History

When you first came to Galataport, you came to Golden Horn, one of the rare natural harbors in the world, located in the Bosphorus, the pearl of Istanbul. Istanbul is a city that has been the capital of many empires such as the Roman Empire, Byzantine Empire, and Ottoman Empire with its 8000-year-old history. History is not a coincidence, but a work of experience. Being in this city like Istanbul, which smells so much history, is the greatest opportunity for you to experience this history.

Since it is the last day of your trip, you may want to go to Istanbul airport quickly, or you may want to stay a few days in this city that smells of history and have a good time.

With our assistants and luxury vehicles serving 24/7 in Istanbul Galataport Transfer , you can have the chance to visit the historical spots of Istanbul with professional tour guides or contact us whenever you want to experience Istanbul nights.

The Istanbul Galataport

The port has a capacity of 25 million visitors, about 7 million tourists and 1.5 million cruise passengers every year; It will simultaneously host 5 cruise ships and approximately 15,000 passengers per day. Galataport Istanbul’s new cruise terminal and customs area will be a project to be implemented for the first time in the world. Equipped with the latest technologies and 4 times the size of the current version, 29,000 square meters of the terminal is under the ground. All passenger and baggage operations of the terminal, which will make a great contribution to the tourism of the country, will operate with a flawless system located underground. Passport control and customs procedures; By directing vehicle traffic such as taxis, minibuses and tour buses to the underground, it is ensured that the sea view at ground level can be enjoyed.

Istanbul Cruise Ports Transfer

7/24 Transfer Service from Istanbul Airports or Hotels to GalataPort

Istanbul City Transfers

7/24 City Transportation Service from cruise port to Airports or Hotels

GalataPort Transfer

7/24 Transfer Service from Istanbul GalataPort to Airports or Hotels

Yacht Rental Services At in Turkey

There is no ‘’to do list in Istanbul’’ without Bosphorous tour. Sailing between Europe and Asia,crossing the most expensive real estates in the world and watching the sunset. We offer all of them in a very personal way with our highly-trained staff to licensed and experiend captains and crew.Your Istanbul experience turns into once in life time event with our luxury service.

Our classic tour start from Kabataş and sail up to second bridge on the bosphorous. On the way, in the city you can see new cruise port, Dolmabahçe Palace, Çırağan Palace, Mecidiye Mosque, Bosphorous Bridge, Beylerbeyi Palace, Arnavutköy, Bebek, Rumeli Castle, Anadolu Fortrest, besiktas, blue mosque and other districts on the bosphorous.

Note: We can pick you up from your chosen waterside location. Price includes: Yacht rental, licensed captain and crew member, fuel, all dock and port fees and complimentary drinks.

3- It takes about 50 minutes (dpends in traffic) from the city center to the airport, but we recommend that you move 1 hour before your hotel or address.

When making your transfer reservation, consider the possibility of traffic. 4- Incoming flights will be tracked. Even if there is a delay in your flight, our airport staff will be there for you on time.

Our Transportation Descriptions From The Airport Or Your Location

“ Istanbul Cruise port Transfer ” We provide two-way transfer service from all parts of Istanbul to both Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gökçen Airport. In addition, transfer service from Istanbul Galataport Cruise Ports to your hotel and the other direction is provided. We provide car service with driver for your daily trips or business trips.

Our Office Employees are working day and night to Provide the Best Service to You, Our Valuable Customers. Our Office is Open 24/7 (Including Holidays)

Our colleagues are always at the airport.

So regardless of your arrival time, we always welcome you with a sign with your name on it.

Our greeting staff will accompany you to your hotel. And we can transfer you to your accommodation directly with our brand new Vip minibuses that are air conditioned without stopping anywhere. Comfortable and safe with our English-speaking assistant from both airports it will be the easiest, most comfortable way to travel.

Stop bargaining with taxi drivers. Also, if you need to transfer services between two airports, istanbul cruise port transportation can do this for you with the best price and service quality.

When it is necessary for the transfer service using a small number or as a group, please contact us immediately to get the best prices for your group and get a quote from us.

Istanbul Galataport Transfer Operates 24/7

All transfers are with local asistant (asistance prices is included) (including national and religious holidays)

Istanbul Galataport Transfers Starting at € 65. Daily City Tours Starting from € 150 (9 Hours – 08:30am-17:30)

Please note that we answer all questions within 2 hours, on booking fo istanbul cruise port transport if you can not hear from us within 2 hours, please check your spam folder, also contact us by phone or Using Whatsup on our website.

Buy Best Istanbul airport transfers service now for istanbul galataport transportation services The SeaBlue travel corpodate website see ower us

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Istanbul Cruise Port Taxi Transfers

Istanbul Cruise Port Taxi Transfers;

Istanbul can be daunting for first-time travellers. We provide a Meet and Greet service at the Istanbul Cruise Ports, New Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gokcen Airport to help you travel to your destination - accommodation.

Our service is quick, reliable, safe and best cruise port and airport transfer option to get Istanbul Airport, Sabiha Gokcen Airport and Istanbul Cruise Port Terminals.

We accept cruise port taxi reservations online, once you complete your booking, you will be issued a voucher full instructions on how to meet with our sign holder staff and where will be waiting for you.

Get Instant Confirmation, avoide long taxi queue lines!

24 Hours Taxi Service

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• Istanbul Airport Assistance
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• Antalya Airport Assistance
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• Istanbul Airport Red Carpet Treatment
• Sabiha Gökçen Airport Meet & Greet Service
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• Dalaman Airport Meet & Greet Service
• Antalya Airport Meet & Greet Service
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• Unaccompanied Minor Services
• Istanbul Airport to City Center Transfer

Istanbul Airport to Cruise Port Transfer

• Istanbul Airport to Sabiha Airport Transfer
• Sabiha Airport to City Center Transfer
• Chauffeur Service
• Istanbul Airport to Cruise Port…

Istanbul Meet & Greet Service provide a very friendly and professional airport transfer – Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) – allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey to wherever your destination may lead. Our cars are always on time and in immaculate condition.

Galataport of Istanbul

Galataport adorns the ancient city of Istanbul like a necklace at the intersection of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. There are distinguished restaurants of Turkish and World cuisine, shops, cafes, bookstores, museums, activity areas and, of course, The Peninsula Hotel, which is the favorite of the fussy.

How far Galataport from Istanbul Airports ?

Galataport is 40 kilometers from Istanbul airport and 55 kilometers from Sabiha Gökçen Airport. Of course, it should not be forgotten that Sabiha Gökçen Airport is on the Asian side.

Group transfer to Istanbul Cruise Port - Galataport

We provide private transfer service for your group from Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gökçen Airport to Istanbul cruise port with our minibusses, midibuses, and buses for all groups larger than 5 people.

Luxury car transfer to Istanbul Cruise Port - Galataport

Experience the priority of transferring to Istanbul Cruise Port with Mercedes E and S Class luxury segment vehicles in our fleet

Istanbul Airport to Istanbul Cruise Port - Galataport private transfer

Istanbul cruise port is 40 kilometers from Istanbul Airport and the journey takes about 1 hour. You can crown your private Galataport transfer with a panoramic city tour or a half-day tour of the old city.

Sabiha Gökçen Airport to Istanbul Cruise Port - Galataport private transfer

The most comfortable way to reach Istanbul Cruise port from Sabiha Gökçen Airport on the Asian side is to book a private transfer service. Don’t forget to watch the unique view of Istanbul while crossing the Bosphorus Bridge that connects the two continents.

Private transport between Istanbul Cruise Port and Grand Covered Bazaar

Istanbul Cruise Port – Galataport is located in an area with heavy traffic. Leaving and returning by public transport or shuttles often causes stress and waste of time. Our special vehicles (sedan, minivan or buses) will pick you up from the terminal and take you to the terminal in the same comfort after your Grand Bazaar shopping experience.

WHATSINPORT.COM: YOUR CRUISE GUIDE TO 1200 PORTS OF CALL

Interactive world cruise map, home | cruise ships | port expenses | hints and tips, istanbul turkey cruise port guide.

Be up on deck when you approach the city: domes and minarets make the skyline one of the most memorable sights of the world.

If your ship does an overnight here, a starboard balcony stateroom will offer you an outstanding view towards Sultanahmet, the area where all (or most) highlights are situated.

The new five-berth cruise port at Istanbul is now completed. It is part of waterfront complex of marina, hotels and shops about four miles away from the Golden Horn. The new terminal is designed under the ground with a project to be implemented for the first time in the world. The complex is huge and the underground walkway can be very long to the exit of the terminal, depending on your docking location.

Taking the tram to Sultanahmet is your best way of transportation, approximate every 5 minutes. Buy red tokens from the vending machines, only 3 Lira (Turkish coins and small bills accepted). The tram stop is only a few blocks from the terminal.

A taxi to Sultanahmet Square where most highlights are just takes 10 minutes, from where on most sights are within walking distance. Ask a tour desk representative in the cruise hall what a fair price is before talking with any taxi drivers and agree on the fare. Taxi drivers will ignore the meter.

You can walk to the Galata bridge, a 10 minute pleasant walk. Turn left from the cruise terminal and turn left again towards the board walk. From the Galata bridge it is a slightly uphill walk to Sultanahmet. The Galata bridge has to levels: The lower level filled with restaurants and top level for traffic. While the lower level has more ambiance, you will have to negotiate a few flights of stairs in the middle, therefore not recommended for the less able.

How to get to the Istanbul cruise terminal:

From the Ataturk Airport: yellow colored taxis will bring you to your ship; there are also express buses and airport shuttles to Taksim.

The trip in the direction of the airport can often involve heavy traffic, especially during rush hour. It is always helpful to check the traffic conditions before setting out to the airport. If you take the coast road connecting Aksaray and Bakirköy to the airport, you are likely to experience less traffic.

Hotels near the Cruise Terminal

Printable map to take along.

Cruise calendar for this port.

Watch a destination video .

Live Nautical Chart with Wikipedia Markers

Port Location on Google Maps

Monthly Climate Averages for Istanbul Turkey

Sightseeing:

Your ship will arrive in the European (north) part of Istanbul . The Galata bridge spans the Golden Horn which divides the city in the more modern Galata area and old Sultanahmet, where all the sights are. If you are limited in time put Old Sultanahmet at the top of your list. Head for the Sultanahmet Square (Also the name of the tram stop)where you will find: the Topkapi Palace (Closed Tuesdays), the Aya Sophia (closed Mondays), the Blue Mosque (no admission during praying times), the Archaeological Museum and the Hippodrome, all within walking distance of each other. Get there early and spend there the whole day.

While visiting a mosque in Istanbul, women need to cover their heads, shoulders, knees .. and oh, toes can show. Chest and legs should be covered. You can carry your own scarf to cover your head but please note scarves are provided at the entrance of every mosque.

As you rest on the European shore of the Bosporus at sunset and look at the golden evening light reflected on the windows of the houses on the Asian shore, or as you stand on the Asian shore and watch the sun setting behind the elegant minarets of old Istanbul, you immediately appreciate, why so many centuries ago, people chose to settle on this extraordinary spot. Indeed there will be times you feel Istanbul is really one of the most glorious cities in the world.

If you have seen Sultanahmet, venture out to the Asian side of town, with one of the many ferries (3 Lira each way) and enjoy Turkish life in a less touristy way, but as rewarding.

Tours Excursions Transportation:

Istanbul City Hop-on Hop-off Tour. Only recommended if you want to venture further out, otherwise the tram is your best bet: faster and cheaper.

Most ferries leave at both sides of the Galata bridge, the bridge which connects new Istanbul and Sultanahmet. Without a doubt, Istanbul's city ferries offer the easiest, most affordable, and most enjoyable way of traveling between the city's two sides. For longer trips, the sea buses offer quicker service. Some tour companies also operate cruises on the Bospurus, leaving from Sultanamet and also about 400 meters up from the cruise terminal.

In town, a taxi is cheap, and the fares are regulated. They are yellow and easy to find. For long journeys, however, drivers can charge more than the meter reads. So negotiate the fare in advance. Traffic can be horrendous, so make sure you do not "miss the boat"

It pays to compare your cruise line tours here

Nearby Places:

Shopping and food.

The main shopping center is the Grand Bazaar (closed Sundays), Take the tram to Beyazit, which will save you an rather uphill walk. More than 3000 merchants are waiting for you. You will also like the Spice Bazaar (near the waterfront, down from the Grand Bazaar): visiting the Misir Çarsisi , is not merely a way to fulfill the tourist's urge for the exotic. It is also a chance to really see and live Istanbul's traditional commercial life.

The area around the Sultanahmet Square has lots of restaurants and coffee houses. Look for restaurants which have a fixed menu board outside. Restaurants near the tram stops with over eagerly staff are often a rip-off, often having menus with "different" pricing: one to lure in the customers, one to help make up the bill. Often they also will add a "service charge". Examine your bill closely and do not be afraid to contest the bill.

Restaurants close to a mosque are not allowed to serve alcoholic beverages, all others will.

Tea gardens (kahve) are among the indispensable pleasures of summer nights. It is really enjoyable to sip your tea or cool yourself down while overlooking a stunning sea panorama.

Turkey's currency is the Turkish Lira. Public transportation and most museums only accept Turkish Lira. Most shops and restaurants accept Euro and sometimes US$. Always make sure you receive correct change. With a credit or debit card you can withdraw local currency from cash machines which are found in convenient locations and right outside the cruise terminal.

Currency Converter

Communication:

Free wireless connections are available at many hotels and restaurants/cafes. Not always advertised, but just ask.

Emergency Ambulance: 112 (all over Turkey) Police: 155 (all over Turkey)

Opening Hours and Holidays:

In tourist and coastal areas, opening hours are quite flexible and during the summer many shops stay open until late in the evening, seven days a week, leaving tourists to browse at their leisure and escape the heat of the day.

Holidays in Turkey

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• Other Mediterranean and Black Sea Ports

How to get from the Port in Istanbul to the Airport?

By Twiga , January 5, 2007 in Other Mediterranean and Black Sea Ports

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Our cruise ends in Istanbul and we will need to get to the airport from the ship. The cruise line transfer costs $59 per person! Are there taxis available at the dock to take us from the ship to Istanbul airport? What is the cost? Does anyone have any alternate suggestions, such as shuttle buses or private car companies that they have used recently? We will be in Istanbul in September 2007 and our flight from Istanbul leaves at 1:50 p.m. Thanks for any suggestions!

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I haven't gotten any response to my request about getting a taxi from the ship in Istanbul to the airport. Has anyone done this recently? Or does anyone have any suggestions on getting to the airport other than by using the ship's transfer?

Assuming you will dock at the main dock, the main dock is located in a very busy, commercial section of town where there are usually plenty of taxis waiting just outside the security area. The international airport is about a 15-25 minute ride depending on traffic. I don't know what the exact cost would be, but I don't think it would be more than 25 Euro (maybe less?), plus charges for luggage.

Check Fodors or other guide book for this information. It's readily available.

Wendy The Wanderer

I agree. It should be very easy to get a cab straight from the cruise port to the airport, and it will be less money. On the other hand, if you're the nervous type who likes to have everything pre-arranged, the ship's transfers are dependable, if pricey. I'm sure there are drivers who can be pre-arranged, but I don't have any contacts that do this.

Unlewss the ship is dodcking some place unusual, there will be plenty of taxis. The ride to the airport would take 45 minutes if driven in a "normal" fashion. The Turkish taxi driver will get you there in 20 minutes or so. And, no, I'm not kidding.

Thanks everyone for your comments. I prefer just grabbing a taxi instead of planning transportation ahead or buying the ship's transfer. I'm glad to know I can get a taxi at the dock in Istanbul. And to top it off, we will get a wild ride with a Turkish taxi driver at no extra charge! What a way to end our cruise. Thank, again!

I agree that a taxi is the best way to get to the airport. Just beware that the Turkish taxi drivers can be a bit more "entreprenaurial" than most would prefer. Another words, if you let them "rip you off" many will be very accomodating. Make sure they use the meter and that the meter is reset before you start on your journey. If they do not want to use the meter make certain you agree on a price before you leave the pier. Its also wise to glance at a local map and have an idea of the route to the airport. A few years ago we grabbed a taxi from the pier to a popular restaurant (we knew the way quite well) and the taxi took us on a very roundabout route more than which added many dollars (and time) to the fare. Just before we got to the restaurant I asked the taxi driver to take us to the police. The driver (who spoke enough English to understand Police) quickly started to plead with us not to go to the police. In the end we paid him half the fare on the meter (still too much) and he was quite happy. There were no "hard feelings" since this was Turkey! :)

Thanks for the advice, Hank! I am looking forward to visiting Istanbul. I am prepared for the taxi drivers and the merchants in the Grand Bazaar. I just went to the Turkish Consulate today to get our visas. So I am ready to go!

Another thing about the taxis (besides the horn honking!). Show them the cash and count it before you hand the money. Some can be quick with the hands! Most are fine, but there are always a few bad apples. We were there in June and spent some pre-cruise time in Istanbul.

Getting a taxi to the airport should be easy. I would negotiate a price before getting in. When we were there an english speaking guy was kind of running things. Not sure about the cost from the port, but our ride from the airport to our hotel (just past the port) was about 30 euro.

Check with your hotel. We stayed at the Sari Konak and they paid for the transfer from the airport. They were also happy to arrange transfer to the port and our cruise critic group was able to get a van large enough for 10+ luggage....very reasonable. Also, many hotels discount their rates if you pay cash. We got 10% of at the Sari Konak. Enjoy Istanbul.

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10 Best Things To Do In Istanbul Cruise Port + Port Guide

Welcome to Istanbul cruise port, Turkey! (Post updated: March 2024)

With its 15 million inhabitants, Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey and the only city in the world spreading on two continents, Europe and Asia. The city is located between two seas, the Sea of ​​Marmara and the Black Sea (Eastern Mediterranean), and the European and Asian sides are divided by the mighty Bosphorus Strait.

Formerly known as Constantinople, Istanbul has a rich cultural and historic heritage that dates back to the 7th century BCE. During the ship sail-in and sail away, make sure you come out on the outer decks to admire the breathtaking Istanbul panorama, its awe-inspiring mosques, minarets, palaces, and picturesque Bosphorus Strait. In this article, read about:

• Istanbul cruise port (Istanbul cruise ship terminal, getting around the port)
• Top 10 things to do in Istanbul port & Istanbul shore excursions

If Istanbul is your homeport, I strongly suggest you stay in Istanbul a few days before or after your cruise. I have a couple of articles where you can learn everything about this stunning city and get all the necessary practical information:

• 20 Best Things To Do In Istanbul For First-Time Visitors
• 5 Day Istanbul Itinerary (+ Travel Tips)

Visit also our cruise port guides to Kusadasi , Rhodes , Mykonos , Santorini , Corfu , Athens (Piraeus) , Limassol

Istanbul Cruise Port

The newly built, modern Galataport is the main cruise port of Istanbul, situated in the Karaköy neighborhood of the Beyoğlu district, located on the European side of İstanbul. It consists of two adjoining piers, the Galata Pier and the Salıpazarı Pier, that extend from the Galata Bridge to Salıpazarı on the west coast of the Bosporus.

Galataport is part of a huge project that occupies 1.200 meters (3.900 ft) of the city-center shoreline, consisting of leisure areas, state-of-the-art facilities, museums, hotels, office buildings, shopping malls, exhibition areas, and hundreds of dining and shopping options on-site.

The port is located a 15-minute walk from the Galata Bridge and Galata Tower, and only a few minutes’ walk from the tram stop. It is very easy to get around the city, as all main city attractions are located within walking distance.

Galataport cruise terminal consists of three passenger halls and can accommodate 3 cruise liners at a time, with a total capacity of 10.000 cruise passengers. Large parking and a taxi rank are available within the Galataport complex. In case there are more vessels, cruise ships dock at Salipazari Pier , situated a few kilometers further, close to Dolmabahce Palace.

Getting Around Istanbul Turkey

• The best way to explore Istanbul is on foot, and you can reach the main city highlights within 20-30 minutes by walking.
• When you exit the cruise terminal, you will find yourself on Meclis-i Mebusan Boulevard where you will find lots of local cafes, restaurants, and shops. Turn left and after only 10 minutes walk, you will reach the Galata Bridge (Galata Köprüsü) across the Golden Horn where you will get spectacular views of the skyline of Istanbul. This bridge connects the old and modern parts of the city, and when you cross it keep going left and you’ll reach Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and other landmarks.
• Some cruise lines offer a convenient shuttle service to the city center for a nominal fee. Make sure you check for the availability of this service onboard the cruise ship.
• If you decide to explore the city on your own, consider taking the public tram as it’s very reliable, quick and efficient. For this purpose, you’ll need Istanbulkart – a public transport card that you can get for 70 TL. You can purchase the card at kiosks or yellow ticket machines at the station. You will find tram stations along Meclis-i Mebusan Boulevard that runs parallel to the cruise port, only a couple of minutes’ walk from the cruise terminal. Tophane stop is the name of the tram stop nearest to the cruise terminal.
• The currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TL/sign ₺). Credit cards and local currency are widely accepted. Some tourist-friendly places take euros/US dollars as well. There are numerous currency exchange kiosks all around Istanbul, so I would suggest you change money straightaway upon your arrival (you’ll find them in the port area). You’ll get the best rate around Taksim Square and Istiklal Street, while it may be slightly lower in the Sultanahmet district.
• Find all Istanbul travel tips and practical information (including public transport info) in my article Top 20 Things to Do in Istanbul for First-Time Visitors (+ Travel Tips)
• There are four tram lines in Istanbul (T1, T2, T3, T4), however, you’ll most probably need to use T1 ( Kabataş–Bağcılar ). This is the most useful tram line as it stops at the port area (Tophane stop) and continues to the historic Sultanahmet district where the Grand Bazaar, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and other major city landmarks are located ( Sultanahmet stop is the tram stop where you need to get off to visit these landmarks). The ride from Istanbul port to the historic city center takes around 10 minutes one way, and the trams run frequently every 5-10 minutes.
• Public buses and the metro are available as well however for cruise passengers the tram is the best option to get around the city. Find routes, schedules and more information on Istanbul public transportation at https://iett.istanbul/
• A taxi from the pier to the city center takes around 10 minutes. Taxis in Istanbul are cheap, though I strongly suggest negotiating the rate in advance. Make sure you inquire at a local tourist information center at the cruise terminal to get updated rates and proper information.
• The Istanbul Museum Pass costs 2500 TL as of January 2024 and allows access to 12 museums in Istanbul. Mosques such as Blue Mosque and Suleymaniye Mosque do not require entrance fees. As of January 2024, foreign tourists are required to pay 25€ to enter Hagia Sophia. An entrance fee is also required for Topkapi Palace (1500 TL ticket combined with Harem), Dolmabahce Palace (1050 TL) and Galata Tower (650 TL). Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia and Galata Tower are included in the Istanbul Museum Pass.
• If you are staying more days in Istanbul, check out my  5-Day Istanbul Itinerary for First-Time Visitors (+ Istanbul Travel Tips) with useful maps and explanations
• Istanbul Hop on Hop off buses are also available and they normally come to the pier when there are ships in port. Check out Hop on Hop off tours/Istanbul Tourist Pass offers on Viator  and Get Your Guide  
• Istanbul has two airports: Istanbul Airport (İstanbul Havalimanı) is located in the European part of Turkey, 40 km (25 miles), or 40-minute drive north of Istanbul cruise port. Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport is located in the Asian part of the country, 50 km (31 miles) or a 1-hour drive southeast of the port of Istanbul.
• Book a private transfer to/from Istanbul port
• Explore Istanbul tours and activities
• Book accommodation in Istanbul

10 Best Things to Do in Istanbul Cruise Port

Before I share the best things to do in Istanbul, I invite you to grab your copy of the “ Mediterranean Cruise Port Guide” , the most comprehensive guide to 45 Mediterranean cruise ports (including Istanbul) , packed with practical information, expert tips & unforgettable experiences! (PDF format/200 pages)

1. Galata Tower

The iconic Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) dominates the city skyline and dates back to the Genoese presence in Constantinople in the 14th century. It is located in the heart of Beyoğlu district, one of the most touristy districts of Istanbul and only a 10-minute walk from Istanbul cruise port.

Galata Tower is nowadays a modern museum with a 51.65 m (169.5 ft) observation deck that you can climb and admire the most spectacular panoramic 360-degree views of Istanbul. Visitors can also enjoy the exhibitions located in the lower areas, featuring ancient artifacts and photographs of old Istanbul.

The entrance fee to Galata Tower is 650 TL per person, and there is free entrance for children under 7 years old. There is an elevator inside the tower that takes you to the 7 th floor however the last 2 floors where the observation deck is located can only be reached by climbing the stairs.

While there, do not miss the chance to wander around the picturesque streets around the Galata Tower. Visit the famous Istiklal Street (Istiklal Caddesi), the most famous pedestrian street in the city, and Taksim Square , filled with cozy cafes, restaurants, clothing stores, and souvenir shops.

Check out Galata Tower tours and activities

2. Galata Bridge

One of my favorite places to see in Istanbul is definitely the Galata Bridge. Strolling through this place full of fishermen who sell their catch to the restaurants on the lower level of the bridge and gazing at the city skyline is a unique experience that you certainly cannot miss!

It is the most famous bridge in the city, a 490-meter-long construction located on the Golden Horn, linking the old town of Istanbul (Sultanahmet district where Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Suleymaniye Mosque are located) with modern areas of Istiklal Street and Taksim Square. The best thing is that it’s located only within a few minutes’ walk from Istanbul cruise port.

Check out Galata Bridge tours and activities 

3. Hagia Sophia

Not only the most famous mosque in Istanbul but also one of the emblems of the city and one of the most impressive buildings on the planet, Hagia Sophia (Aya Sophia) was originally built as a Christian cathedral in AD 537 during the Roman Empire.

Hagia Sophia was the religious and spiritual center of the Eastern Orthodox Church for nearly one thousand years, after which it was converted into a mosque after the Fall of Constantinople to the Ottoman Empire in 1453. In 1935 Hagia Sophia was turned into a museum, but as of July 2020, by order of the Turkish government, Hagia Sophia opened as a mosque again.

Inside you can enjoy the colossal dimensions of the main room, the huge decorative medallions, the monolithic columns, and several of the most beautiful mosaics on the planet. Some of the Christian Mosaics and paintings have been covered by curtains.

Like in any other mosque in the world, a strict dress code is enforced. Women should cover their heads, with no exposed arms or legs. In case you didn’t bring any long clothing you will encounter at the entrance disposable tunics and headscarf (at an extra charge).

Visitors are also required to remove their shoes before entering. You will also notice that some areas have been restricted and are only accessible to worshipers separating men’s side and women’s side.

Hagia Sophia is located at Sultanahmet Square in the old part of Istanbul, approximately 3 km (1.9 miles) or a 40-minute walk from the port of Istanbul.

If you choose public transport, head over to the closest tram station (Karaköy or Tophane), take the T1 tram line , and get off at Sultanahmet station. After a short 3-minute walk you will be at Hagia Sophia. To use public transport, please refer to the transportation information to see more details.

The entrance fee to Hagia Sophia is 25€ for tourists as of January 2024.

Check out Hagia Sophia tours and activities

4. The Blue Mosque

The original name of this imposing mosque is Sultan Ahmed Mosque, built in honor of the sultan who ordered its construction in the 17 th century. Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) is considered one of the most beautiful mosques in Istanbul and one of the most magnificent mosques in the Islamic world.

History tells us that this sultan was a bit arrogant, so he ordered the construction of the Blue Mosque with 6 minarets, a feature that only the Mecca mosque had at that time. However, some legends say that it was a result of a misunderstanding between the sultan and the architect.

The interior of the Blue Mosque is truly a marvel, decorated with 20.000 blue tiles from the city of Iznik, more than 200 stained glass windows, and fantastic chandeliers hanging from the ceiling.

The Blue Mosque is situated right in front of Hagia Sophia in Sultanahmet Square. Between the two mosques, there is a beautiful Sultan Ahmet Park with its lavish fountain and green spaces.

Remember that the dress code is enforced if you decide to visit the interior of the mosque (no exposed shoulders or legs) and visitors should remove footwear (bring socks). If needed, there is a free-of-charge rental place for headscarves and long skirts. Also, there is no entrance fee and no visitors are allowed during the praying times.

The Blue Mosque is wheelchair friendly, the accessible entrance is located close to the German fountain. There are accessible sidewalks throughout the complex. Please be advised that wheelchair users will need to transfer wheelchairs before the interior visit but no worries, the Mosque staff will be there to assist you.

Check out Blue Mosque guided tours and activities

5. Topkapi Palace

The Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi) ranks among the most representative buildings in Istanbul. It was the main residence of the sultans of the Ottoman Empire and the seat of their government between the 15 th and 19 th centuries.

The Topkapi Palace is an impressive museum that spreads across 700.000 square meters and comprises several buildings located around four beautiful courtyards. Among all the magnificent rooms of the palace, you should definitely visit the treasury room where you can find the richest collections of Islamic weapons in the world and Hagia Irene (Aya İrini), the oldest Church of the Byzantine Empire dating from the 4th century.

The Gate of Felicity is one of the most important places in the palace because it was the place where the Sultan used to host the most important celebrations.

In the heart of the palace, you will find the Chamber of Holy Relics, featuring the Clock of Prophet Muhammed, a hair of his beard, and many other important relics of the Muslim World. Another place to visit is the Imperial Harem or Imperial Quarters, a place where the Sultan, his concubines, and his family used to live. It comprises nearly 300 rooms, 9 baths, 2 mosques, and a hospital.

The general entrance fee is 1500 TL per person as of January 2024 and the entrance to the Harem is included. The palace is closed on Tuesdays. Due to the popularity of this place, it is strongly recommended to purchase your tickets ahead of time to avoid long lines and waiting.

Topkapi Palace is located within a 5-minute walk from Hagia Sophia. A taxi ride from Istanbul port to Topkapi Palace takes less than 10 minutes.

If you decide to take public transport, then head over to the closest tram station to the port, get off at Gülhane station and walk around 10 minutes to the Palace. Topkapi Palace is mostly wheelchair friendly however some buildings are not wheelchair accessible.

Check out Topkapi Palace tours and activities

6. The Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar (known also as Kapalıçarşı) is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world and one of the best places to shop and see in Istanbul. In the 15 th century, Sultan Mehmet II began the construction of a covered bazaar near his palace, originally dedicated to the sale of fabrics and silks.

In the surroundings of the bazaar craftsmen’s workshops were installed over time, forming union streets that were also covered by vaults and today feature more than 58 streets and 5.000 stores.

Whether you like shopping or not, the Grand Bazaar is a place that I advise you to visit since it is one of the most important places to see in Istanbul receiving between 300.000 and 500.000 visitors daily.

If you are definitely interested in something you like, I suggest comparing the prices at different shops before you buy it, then go back to where you got the best deal but do not buy it yet! Start to bargain and I guarantee you will get a better price than expected. Do not show excessive interest since the seller could realize it and not lower the price.

The Grand Bazaar is located within a 15-minute walk of Sultanahmet Square, Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. From the cruise port, a taxi should cost around 150 TL per taxi. If you opt to take public transport, take the T1 tram line to Beyazıt – Kapalıçarşı station, located next to the Bazaar. If you decide to walk then the journey takes around 35 minutes from Galataport.

Check out Grand Bazaar tours and activities

7. Dolmabahçe Palace

This breathtaking palace is located in the Beşiktaş district, in the European part of the Bosphorus Strait, a 25-minute walking distance from Galataport and only a few minutes walk from Salı Pazarı cruise port.

Dolmabahçe Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi) was built in opulent Baroque, Rococo and Neoclassical European styles. It was ordered in the 19th century by the Empire’s 31st Sultan, Abdülmecid I, who wanted to move from Topkapi Palace into a more modern, European-style palace.

This monumental palace was constructed between 1843 and 1856 and is one of the largest palaces in Turkey with 285 rooms, 46 halls, 6 baths (hamam), and 68 bathrooms. It boasts the largest collection of Bohemian and Baccarat crystal chandeliers in the world and is decorated with gold, glass, crystal, marble, and other expensive stones.

The palace was the residence of the last six Ottoman Sultans, and Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the first president and founder of the Turkish Republic. Make sure you visit Mabeyn-i Hümayun (Selamlik), where the state’s administrative works were carried out back in time; Ceremonial Hall, boasting the world’s largest Bohemian crystal chandelier; and the Harem-i Humayun, used for the State ceremonies.

Dolmabahçe Palace is open between 9 am and 4:30 pm every day except on Mondays. The entrance fee is 1050 TL. Guided tours are available as well.

Check out Dolmabahçe Palace tours and activities

8. Süleymaniye Mosque

Overlooking the Bosphorus from the Third Hill of Istanbul, this majestic mosque was ordered by Süleyman the Magnificent in 1550 and completed within 7 years.

Designed by the celebrated Imperial Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan, Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii) is the largest imperial mosque in Istanbul, surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens overlooking the Bosphorus Strait.

It was commissioned by Suleiman the Magnificent and today you can visit the octagonal mausoleums of Suleiman the Magnificent and his wife Hurrem Sultan within the mosque’s complex.

Suleymaniye Mosque is located a 25-minute walk from Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, and a 30-minute walk from Galataport. Admission is free. Make sure you respect the dress code.

9. Bosphorus Cruise

Bosphorus Strait divides Europe and Asia and connects the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara. It is truly the heart of Istanbul, dotted with elaborate parks, sumptuous Ottoman mansions, palaces, upscale hotels, churches, mosques, and other historic landmarks.

Many tour companies offer cruises along the Bosphorus Strait and Golden Horn as this is one of the most unique ways to see Istanbul. Delight in traditional Turkish food and dance while your tour guide points to you the main places of interest in this awe-inspiring city. The tours and ticket prices vary, depending on the duration of the tour and what’s included in it.

Check out Bosphorus tours and activities

10. Spice Bazaar

Also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, this colorful covered bazaar dates from the 17th century and counts among the oldest bazaars in Istanbul. Here you can buy typical products such as spices, sweets, nuts, food, and textile at a more affordable price than in the Grand Bazaar.

Although it is less known and significantly smaller than the Grand Bazaar, the Spice Bazaar is in my opinion much more beautiful. Upon entering you will find a burst of smell and color, a delight for the senses. The Spice Bazaar is located very close to the cruise port, approximately 15 minutes walk across the Galata Bridge. You can also take the T1 tram and get off at the Eminönü stop.

Check out Spice Bazaar tours and activities  

Wrapping Up

With its imposing minarets, mosques, majestic palaces and rich tourist offers, Istanbul is a perfect cruise destination that you will always want to return to (as one day in Istanbul is certainly not enough). Since your time in port is limited, I suggest taking an organized shore excursion if you are in Istanbul for the first time, as it will give you an overview of the city’s history, culture, and major highlights.

Visit also our cruise port guides to  Civitavecchia (Rome) , Naples , Taormina (Messina) , Dubrovnik , Marseille , Barcelona

You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean , Caribbean , Western Europe , Baltic & Scandinavia , USA & Canada , Australia & New Zealand

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enhance your Mediterranean cruise experience with our “ Mediterranean Cruise Port Guide “- your ultimate companion to discovering the region’s hidden treasures and creating unforgettable memories; click below to purchase your copy today and embark on the voyage of a lifetime!

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Transfers from/to Port of Istanbul

After many hours or days on your cruise trip, you might arrive at the Port of Istanbul feeling exhausted and laden with belongings. The last thing you want to do is wait in the queue for a taxi. When you pre-book a private transfer with us, your driver will be waiting for you at the cruise terminal.  He’ll help you with your luggage and escort you to the waiting car. With our Port of Istanbul transfers, you can rest after a long journey in comfort and style. Our door-to-door service will get you to your hotel or private accommodation with ease. So don’t waste your precious time, make travel easier with our Port of Istanbul transfers.

We can accommodate transportation for any party size and for different arrival times. You can choose from our minibuses or coaches. Benefit from our reliable, award-winning service with no hidden costs and a customer service helpline. Book now for any transfer from and to Istanbul Cruise Port.

Port of Istanbul transfer times & prices

* Our Port of Istanbul transfer prices are subject to seasonal changes. If you would like to find out the best price for your transfer to Istanbul, fill in the booking confirmation at the top of this page. 

Where is Port of Istanbul?

All cruise ships arrive at the Yolcu Salonu passenger terminal in Karakoy, which is centrally located near Galata Tower. It has two adjoining piers, the Galata Pier and the Salipazari Piers.

Karakoy has many modern art galleries, stylish restaurants and coffee shops to enjoy during the day. The evening brings a very vibrant atmosphere, with the opening of many bars and clubs.

Things to do in Port of Istanbul

The tram station named Findikli is close to the cruise port, from here you can cross the Galata bridge and visit Istanbul’s popular tourist destinations. For instance; Topkapi, Eminonu, Dolmabahce Palace, Beyazit, Sultanahmet, Istiklal Avenue and Taksim Square. 

Which cruise lines stop in Port of Istanbul?

The world’s largest cruise lines stop in Port of Istanbul, including Royal Caribbean, Uniworld, Princess, Celebrity, Azamara, Cunard, Holland America, P&Q UK.

HolidayTaxis also provide transportation to the following Ports and Airports in Turkey;

• Gazipasa Airport
• Istanbul Airport
• Istanbul Port
• Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport
• Izmir Airport

Your transfer options

Private vehicles, shuttle services, speedy shuttle options, minibus carrier, limousine services, disability access transportation.

We offer wheelchair accessible taxis in many destinations which are suitable for those using a wheelchair, and can cater for any special requirements you may have. Wheelchair accessible vehicles have either a rear tail lift or ramp for wheelchair access. You will not have to get out of your wheelchair and your driver will assist you in and out of the vehicle if needed.

From the blog...

Types of HolidayTaxis transfer vehicles March 31, 2023

At HolidayTaxis, we recognize that every traveler is different and may have their own preferences and requirements for their airport transfers. To accommodate this, we offer a diverse range of transfer vehicles for our customers to choose from, each with its own set of benefits and advantages.

For example, if you're traveling in a large group, our minibus or shared airport shuttle transfers might be the best option for you, as they can comfortably accommodate a larger number of passengers and their luggage. On the other hand, if you're traveling with just one or two companions, a private car may be more suitable for you as they offer a more intimate and personalised experience.

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Istanbul Cruise Port (Galataport) Map

What to do in istanbul from a cruise ship for a day.

If you’re visiting Istanbul by cruise ship, we can say that you’ll have about 6 to 12 hours to explore the city . To help you plan your cruise layover in Istanbul, we put together a quick guide on what to in Istanbul for a day below. You can choose the tours below regarding your stopover time. If you will have 12 hours layover, than you can explore the city’s all the best attractions for sure with our guide below.

And if you will have 24 to 72 hours Istanbul stay, than you are very lucky that you can explore all of the city’s sights and sounds very effectively.

A Brief Info & Insider Advice

If you have only one day or less to spend in Istanbul, the best way to get the most out of the city is to visit the famous Sultanahmet neighborhood and see the couple of Istanbul’s must-see sights there. Sultanahmet will sure give you the ultimate Istanbul experience in a nutshell.

We also recommend you to visit the Galata and Taksim neighborhoods , the modern part of the city.

No Regrets Booking Advice

General map of top sights.

Below you can see the top attractions and sights of the city from an aerial view, with top neighborhoods. You can have a general idea of how to get around.

Cruise Ship Passenger Itinerary : 6 hours

You will only need to take a tram as for transportation, for our Istanbul cruise ship passenger tour itinerary. So get an IstanbulKart that you can have access all the public transportation network of Istanbul.

One ride is only 4,03 TL (about €0,4), and you can obtain this card (with 13 TL initial fee) at the ticket machines at any tram station near the Istanbul Cruise port.

If you’ll have an overnight stay, 1 day or plus 1 day layover, please check out our one day Istanbul itinerary or 3 day Istanbul itinerary , as well as Istanbul attractions opening hours & admissions .

Stop-1 -> Sultanahmet Square (1,5 hours)

Your cruise ship boarded at Galataport and you’re free to go now! You are just in the heart of Istanbul, no need for a shuttle or transfer for the city center.

Head up to Tophane tram stop on foot, take tram to Sultanahmet . After about 20 minutes, you are now by the Sultanahmet Square , one of the most tourist area of the city with loads of historic sights such as mosques, churches, museums, etc.

Once being a Byzantium hippodrome from the 4th century, the square itself hosts the famous historic places and sights that include; the Egyptian Obelisk , the  Serpentine Column , the  Colossus  or the  Column of Costantine Porphyrgenitus  and the  German Fountain .

Enjoy the sights and sounds here (about 1 hour) and make sure you visit at least one of these greatest sights of the city, by entering inside: Hagia Sophia Museum (1 hour), Topkapi Palace Museum (1,5 hours), Blue Mosque (45 minutes), Istanbul Archaeology Museums (1 hour), Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts (1 hour), and Basilica Cistern (45 minutes). We recommend Hagia Sophia .

For the other museums and sights, you don’t have enough time to explore them all, and even looking the other sights from the outside will be a unique experience in itself.

Before you head up to Hagia Sophia, you can have a rest for 15 minutes, and try Turkish coffee or any other drinks at the several good cafes around the Sultanahmet Square.

Stop-2 -> Hagia Sophia Museum (1 hour)

Dating back to 325, Hagia Sophia is a former church and mosque and declared as one of the world’s greatest architectural works and accepted as the 8th wonder of the world.

This amazing landmark is situated just by the Sultanahmet Square. You should buy Hagia Sophia Fast Track Entry Ticket (plus guidance and audio app) to avoid the long queues as you have very limited time.

• Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Ticket  (fastest option and cheapest price on net)
• Combo: Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern & Hagia Sophia Tour (one of the best)
• Hagia Sophia: Guided Highlights Tour and In-App Audio Guide (great one)
• Combo Ticket & Tour ( all in one - Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace & Basilica Cistern, our favorite , no need to look for else, trust us)
• Hagia Sophia: Entry with Guided Tour (good one)

You’ll feel hungry after the Hagia Sophia tour. You can find loads of tourist cafes and restaurants along the Sultanahmet Square and along the tram road.

We’d recommend Historical 1920 Sultanahmet Koftecisi  (Divan Yolu Str., No: 12) to taste the delicious grills meat balls and the sweet Semolinacake . Expect to spend about €8,00 a person for this menu.

Stop-3 -> Taksim & Istiklal Street (1,5 hours)

Take the tram from Sultanahmet to Kabatas (20 minutes – last stop), and there take the funicular (5 minutes) to reach Taksim .

You’are now in the famous Taksim Square . Take some photos along the square and start your walking tour along the Istiklal Street .

Istiklal Street is probably the most famous street and entertainment area in Istanbul. It is a long colorful pedestrian street full of all kind of shops, restaurants, cafes and street shows.

You can visit one of these sights by entering inside: Madame Tussauds Wax Museum  (30 minutes), the amazing St. Anthony of Padua Church (30 minutes) and Pera Museum (30 minutes). We recommend St.Anthony of Padua Church .

You’ll finish off Istiklal Street heading Tunel Square (end of the Istiklal Street) and walking downhill from the Galip Dede ramp until you reach the Galata Tower .

You’ll find and enjoy variety of lovely craft, souvenir and music shops as well as a couple of art galleries along the Galip Dede ramp .

Stop-4 -> Galata Tower (1 hour)

Galata Tower , topped with a distinctive witch’s-hat roof, is one of the most impressive and popular landmarks in Istanbul. Dating back to 14th century, the tower is an old Genoese tower overlooking the city that rises to a height of 72 meters above its base.

Galata Tower serves as a popular tourist sight, that its  observatory deck has a 360 degrees view of Istanbul . There are two elevators in the entrance that takes you to the top. You’ll find amazing views of the Historical Peninsula, Golden Horn and Bosphorus on top that encompasses Istanbul. Take photos, as much as you can.

You can spend here about  30 to 45 minutes .

From the Galata Tower, you can stroll along the sweet narrow streets with variety of shops, take photos, and walk another 15 minutes along the coast to get back to the cruise port.

After Dinner & Night-time Activities

If you have an overnight stay, or have enough time for the evening activities, you can;

* Have a snack or drink in one of the rooftop restaurants and cafes in Galata and Karakoy neighborhood, along with the beautiful views of Bosphorus.

* Finish the night in one of the taverns, bars or restaurants at the Nevizade or Asmalimescit , along Istiklal Street in Taksim with a Turkish cuisine.

* Or spend the night in one of the music clubs , bars or pubs in the Galata or Taksim neighborhood.

* Or if you want something exciting, unique and special with lively shows, such as Turkish classical music, belly dancing, whirling dervishes, or folkloric shows, than we highly recommend the below programs:

• Whirling Dervishes Show at Hodjapasha Culture Center (daily at 19:00-20:00) or Orient Express Hall (daily at 19:30-20:30), in Sirkeci
• Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Entertainment (daily at 20:00-23:00, from Kabatas)

Keep in mind that should be around Galata or Karakoy as to access the port on foot in about 15-20 minutes.

How to get from the Cruise Port to the City Center?

You are lucky that Istanbul’s current temporary Cruise port is located in the heart of the city, very close, within walking distance to all popular sights and sounds of the historic center of the city. The best way to get to the Istanbul major tourist zones, which are Sultanahmet, Galata and Taksim, is to take the Bagcilar-Kabatas tram (T1 line)  or taking public buses.

You can check the Istanbul Railway Network Map  for the Tram stops and  Istanbul Ferry Lines Map  for ferries.

You can also catch a taxi , but this will definitely be the most expensive way, although you will feel comfortable in getting back your cruise on time.

You can buy Private Guided Istanbul’s Highlights Tour to save yourself from the hassle of all those arrangements.

How to Get Around Istanbul?

You may find variety of options for getting around Istanbul. We can say that, from your Cruise port, the popular sights and sounds of the city can be accessed by walking or via short tram ride.

The three busiest areas for tourists, that include Sultanahmet ,  Galata  and  Taksim , are easy to get around on foot. Istanbul offers a huge network of public transportation that include;  buses  and  railways  such as  metro, tram systems  and  Marmaray . You may read more on our Getting Around Istanbul and Public Transportation page.

How to Save Money in Istanbul?

Attraction discount cards.

There are variety of sightseeing discount passes and cards for Istanbul, which is one of the best ways to save money during your stay in Istanbul.

However, most of the Istanbul travel passes and cards are not very well-suited for a very short visit from a cruise ship, such as popular travel passes and cards like Istanbul Welcome Card , Istanbul E-Pass , Istanbul Tourist Pass , and Istanbul Museum Pass  are unlikely to save you enough money to justify the investment unless you have more than 1 day in Istanbul.

Anyways these cards and passes will generate very good savings to you in comparison to when you buy the attraction tickets at ticket window on location. They also will provide fast track entry.

Top Discount Cards and Combo Tickets

Istanbul welcome card premium.

Valid for 7 days, free delivery to your hotel and includes; Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace fast track entry tickets with 30 minutes guidance and Audio Guide App in 10 languages, Istanbulkart with 10 Rides, Bosphours Cruise (1,5 hours), Digital Guide Book and City Map .

Buy Istanbul Welcome Card Premium

Our website visitors will get 5% extra discount.

Istanbul Welcome Card Deluxe

Valid for 7 days, free delivery to your hotel and includes; fast track entry tickets to 12 Museums (Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Harem, Chora Museum, Fethiye (Pammakristos) Museum, Galata Mevlevi Lodge Museum, Great Palace Mosaics Museum, Hagia Irene, Istanbul Archaeological Museums, Museum of Turkish & Islamic Arts Museum, Rumeli Fortress, Museum of Science and Technology in Islam, Bonus: Basilica Cistern), Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and Basilica Cistern guided tour , Istanbulkart with 20 Rides, Bosphorus Cruise (1,5 hours), Digital Guide Book and City Map .

Buy Istanbul Welcome Card Deluxe

Combo tickets for hagia sophia, topkapi palace & basilica cistern.

Valid for 3 days, digital pass, no need a printed ticket, guidance service with certified guides.

Buy Combo Tickets

Online city pass – istanbul tourist pass.

Istanbul Tourist Pass is a digital travel discount card that provides entrance and transportation tickets to many of Istanbul’s top tourist attractions along with several guided museum tours with skip-the-line access in a simple, useful, convenient and fun way.

Rather than paying for each item individually, the pass allows you to choose from 75+ things to do in Istanbul so you can pack as much into your stay as possible for a single set price. You’ll get valuable discounts of up to 75% .

After you purchase the pass, it will be delivered to mobile phone and will be ready to use at upon arrival.

There are four types of Istanbul Tourist Pass (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 or 10-Day) .

Buy Your Istanbul Tourist Pass Online Now

Wanna learn more about Istanbul Tourist Pass?

Make Bargains when you make Shopping

We recommend you to bargain when you make shopping in any of the tourist and souvenir shops. You can be sure that you’ll get a good discount when you make bargains. In addition, some establishments such as local shops, boutiques offer good discounts when you pay in cash as they won’t want to pay a percentage to the credit card company.

Also, especially to take the advantage of good discounts on shopping, we recommend you to carry cash TRY. We don’t know would you be able have TRY cash from your cruise ship, but you should know that you can get Turkish Liras from the ATMS or Banks near your cruise port. And we recommend you to carry small notes such as 5,10,20, 50 TRY.

You may read our Turkish Money page for more information on where to obtain it to how to spend it and familiarize yourself with Turkish currency.

Use Public Transport Card when getting around the city

We recommend you to use public transport card when getting around the city. The whole public transportation system can easily be accessed with a single transportation card, which is  Istanbulkart .

And note that you can get around all the popular cruise port nearby sights and attractions of Istanbul via Trams .

You can check the Istanbul Railway Network Map  for the Tram stops  and  Istanbul Ferry Lines Map  for ferries.

Best Tours for Cruise Ship Visitors

We highly recommend the below great value for money Istanbul tours for cruise ship passengers. You’ll get the best deals with quality service for sure. You won’t be late to your ship and avoid possible tourist traps.

Here we only suggest the proven ways and top rated ones with travelers’ comments. You can feel free to book one of the below top selling tours designed for cruise ship visitors.

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before activity starts

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How to Get from Airport to Istanbul Galata Cruise Port

There are two airports serving the Turkish city - Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW). The good news is, it’s easy to reach Istanbul cruise port in a variety of ways from both airports.

It’s possible to take a private transfer or split the cost on a group minibus. Taxis are available from outside both airport terminals and there are other less convenient (but cheaper) modes of transport including Metro and bus.

Where is the Cruise Port in Istanbul

Istanbul cruise port is located in the areas of Galata and Karaköy, close to Galata Tower and within easy access across the bridge to Sultanahmet Square, the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Grand Bazaar.

Istanbul cruise port terminal, also known as Galataport, is a relatively new and modern port. With a design inspired by the basilica cisterns of Istanbul, it’s the world’s first underground cruise ship terminal. There are cultural and arts centers near the port, plus, a whole host of designer shops, restaurants, and cafes.

How Far from Istanbul Airports to Cruise Port

The nearest airport to Galata cruise port is Istanbul Airport (IST), 40 kilometers away, with a journey time of an hour by road.

Alternatively, if you’re flying into Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW), east of the cruise port, it’s 55 kilometers away and takes approximately 70 minutes by taxi or private shuttle.

Sabiha Gökçen Airport

Sabiha Gökçen is Istanbul’s second airport. The airport is a main hub for Pegasus Airlines and AnadoluJet. It has two passenger terminals, one catering to domestic flights and the other to international departures and arrivals.

A taxi journey will cost approximately €30 from Sabiha Gökçen Airport to the port of Istanbul, and the same rates can be applied for a return journey to the airport.

Istanbul Airport

Istanbul Airport is the largest and newest airport in the city. It’s located on the European side of Istanbul, serving more than 350 destinations across over 100 countries. It’s a prominent transportation hub, connecting Europe with Asia and Africa.

The average taxi fare from Istanbul Airport (IST) is €25-30 one way. As with any city, always agree a price to the cruise port prior to commencing your journey, as some drivers may add on the price of the toll to cross the river.

Transportation from Airport to Istanbul Galata Cruise Port

In addition to the transportation methods above, there are also more affordable ways to travel to the cruise port in Istanbul.

Bus from Istanbul Airports to Cruise Port

Havabus shuttle buses run from Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) to Taksim, the closest location to the cruise port. A one way ticket cost is less than €3 per person and the same route can be taken on your return journey back to the airport. The journey time is around 1.5 hours.

The service also operates from Istanbul Airport (IST) to Taksim Square. Upon arrival, you can hop on the F1 tram from Taksim Station to Kabataş, then it’s a 10-15 minute walk to Galataport. It takes 90 minutes in total and costs just under €4 per person for a single journey.

Private Transfer Istanbul Airports to Cruise Port

The most comfortable and luxurious way to reach Istanbul port from Sabiha Gökçen Airport is via private transfer. The journey time is approximately one hour, and the cost can range from €40-45.

If you’re traveling from Istanbul Airport to the cruise port terminal, the cost of a private transfer is €35-40 with a duration of around 45 minutes.

Luggage at the Istanbul Galata Cruise Port

If you need to store luggage, Istanbul cruise port uses a hatch system to create a secure customs and baggage area when no ships are docked. In the cruise port there are passenger check-ins, waiting rooms and they have the capacity to store thousands of pieces of luggage for passengers underground.

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Quid est igitur, cur ita semper deum appellet Epicurus beatum et aeternum? Conferam tecum, quam cuique verso rem subicias; Earum etiam rerum, quas terra gignit, educatio quaedam et perfectio est non dissimilis animantium. Nam quibus rebus efficiuntur voluptates, eae non sunt in potestate sapientis. Hanc ergo intuens debet institutum illud quasi signum absolvere. Summus dolor plures dies manere non potest?

Scientiam pollicentur, quam non erat mirum sapientiae cupido patria esse cariorem. An est aliquid, quod te sua sponte delectet? Non igitur de improbo, sed de callido improbo quaerimus, qualis Q. Mihi enim satis est, ipsis non satis. Hoc sic expositum dissimile est superiori. Eademne, quae restincta siti? Tu vero, inquam, ducas licet, si sequetur; Videsne quam sit magna dissensio?

Cum autem venissemus in Academiae non sine causa nobilitata spatia, solitudo erat ea, quam volueramus.

• Tum ille timide vel potius verecunde: Facio, inquit.
• Ergo infelix una molestia, fellx rursus, cum is ipse anulus in praecordiis piscis inventus est?
• Quid, de quo nulla dissensio est?
• Iam quae corporis sunt, ea nec auctoritatem cum animi partibus, comparandam et cognitionem habent faciliorem.

User Agreement

Istanbul Cruise Port Taxi Transfers

Door to door, fixed price, private taxi service in Istanbul Cruise Port

We offer private transportation service from Istanbul Cruise Port at competitive and affordable rates. Book online in minutes and save up to 40% compared to a metered taxi fare.

• Free Cancelations
• Professional and Reliable Drivers
• Safe and Comfortable Vehicles
• Secure online booking
• Always Low Prices

Airport taxi transfers to Istanbul Cruise Port are available 24/7. Services include private hire by the hour, transfers from and to various events in and around Istanbul, cruise port transfers, airport shuttle, Istanbul sightseeing tours and excursions. Professional and reliable chauffeurs and excellent customer care before, during and after your transfer. Your safety is our priority and your comfort, our satisfaction.

Rent a car in Istanbul Cruise Port

If you prefer driving, get a Istanbul Cruise Port Car Hire quote.

Low Cost Car Rental

Alternative booking method.

Please select a destination from the list below to set it as a drop-off point. This booking method is an alternative way to book your airport transfer from Istanbul Cruise Port

Transfer From: Istanbul Cruise Port (Selected)

• Istanbul Airport
• Konya Airport
• Sabiha Gokcen Airport
• Cruise Ports
• Istanbul Cruise Port
• Salipazari Port
• Bus Stations
• Esenler Bus Station
• Popular Locations
• Istanbul City Centre (European side)
• Sultanahmet
• Other Locations
• Bahcelievler
• Belgratkapi
• Binbirdirek
• Buyukcekmece
• Gaziosmanpasa
• Istanbul City Centre (Asian side)
• Kalamis Marina
• Kucukcekmece
• Sultanbeyli
• Tuzla Istanbul
• Zeytinburnu

To: Select a Drop-off Location

• San Sebastian
• Santiago de Compostela
• Castellón
• Gran Canaria
• Southampton
• Montpellier
• Venice (Gondola Tours)
• Lamezia Terme
• Reggio Calabria
• Comiso - Ragusa
• Rest of Europe
• St Petersburg
• Middle East
• Ho Chu Minh
• Samal Island
• Kuala Lumpur
• Penang / George Town
• Kota Kinabalu
• Bhubaneswar
• Usa & Canada
• Los Angeles
• San Francisco
• Indianapolis
• Mexico City
• San José del Cabo
• Guadalajara
• Buenos Aires
• Puerto Iguazú
• Rio de Janeiro
• Porto Alegre
• Salvador de Bahia

Istanbul Airport Transfer, Taxi Istanbul

Cruise port transportation.

After many days away from home, you arrive tired and with a lot of luggage to the cruise port of Istanbul. It was a special trip, a great experience.  Now, just missing the shuttle connection to the airport to get home and rest.

Do not give up the peace and comfort of a contracted service. Do not let this move randomly and avoid waiting and last minute complications. Join now our taxi service for transfer from Istanbul Cruise Port and we will be waiting for you at the gate terminal of the port for which you have reached the crossing, with a sign with your name to transfer you to your destination, comfortably.

Or, if you are arriving to Istanbul to embark we will take you comfortably and safely to Istanbul Cruise Port for your departure.   Enjoy all the benefits of our taxi service also for your Istanbul Cruise Port Transfer:

• We pick you up at agreed time, never wait for a taxi.
• Price without surprises. Know in advance what it will cost you.
• Secure payment. No need to pay the driver, your reservation is already paid by credit card or PayPal at your convenience.
• Transportation guaranteed according to your needs (sports equipment, Extra luggage, adapted transport, groups, etc. ..)

  Make your taxi reservation now for any transfer from and to Istanbul Cruise Port.

If your cruise will continue to another city in the mediterranean sea, check our services also in Rome , Venice and Barcelona

Port of Istanbul

The Port of Istanbul is a passenger terminal for cruise liners, which is situated at Karaköy neighborhood of Beyoğlu district in Istanbul, Turkey. It consists of two adjoining piers, the Galata Pier and the Salıpazarı Pier, extending from the Galata Bridge on the Golden Horn to Salıpazarı on the west coast of the Bosporus. It is owned and operated by the state-owned Turkish Maritime Lines (TDİ).

The construction of Galata Pier began in 1892, and was completed in 1900. Two warehouses were built in 1910, and three more were added in 1928. From 1925 on, the port authority started to give all the necessary logistics support to the ships, including water and coal supply, loading and unloading, maritime pilotage and marine salvage services.

In 1957, the Salıpazarı Pier, built by the Ministry of Public Works, was completed and handed over to the Turkish Maritime Bank, the forerunner of the TDİ. The Port of Istanbul served as the country's biggest seaport for import cargo until 1986 when it became obsolete due to increase of container shipping.

Converted into a passenger terminal for cruise liners in addition to the existing Galata Pier Terminal, the Salıpazarı Pier continued to serve as a passenger terminal from September 19, 1988 on.[2] It was extended in 2007 to meet the demand by the growing cruise tourism.

Port facilities

A cruise liner docked at the Port of Istanbul.

The Port of Istanbul consists of three passenger halls, two of them covering an area of 4,000 m2 (43,000 sq ft) each and another of 800 m2 (8,600 sq ft). The three halls make it possible to handle around 10,000 tourists an hour, maintaining all the border control functions.

There is an open-air parking lot of 5,000 m2 (54,000 sq ft) for 200 excursion coaches.

All facilities of the port are under surveillance by 78 closed-circuit television cameras at a control center on a 24/7 basis for security purposes.

Our price includes:

• Meet & Greet  service at airport and hotel. Driver will be waiting for you at airport arrival lounge or hotel mail lobby with a board showing your name.
• Flight arrival time monitoring. We will change your pickup in case of flight delay.
• Istanbul Airport Transfers
• Transfers to Istanbul Cruise Terminal
• Transfers for Meetings and Events
• Transfers from Istanbul to main Golf Courses in the region
• Sightseen Tours in the City
• Taxi Istanbul
• Istanbul Taxi to main destinations
• Taxi Hourly Hire
• More offers and deals...

Book your Taxi Online

Frequently Questions about your Istanbul transfer

Is my booking a private or shared transfer? We only provide private transfers. You and your party will be the only passengers in the vehicle. So you don't have to wait for other passengers and no have to do any additional stop until your final destination.

How long do I have to wait to receive your confirmation? The confirmation is immediate. Once terminated your booking process you will immediately receive the confirmation by email. Please verify all details contained in the voucher. It is mandatory to specify a mobile phone number and your flight number on arrival.

Can I pay directly to the driver? No, we only admit online payments. But you will be able to cancel your booking until 12 hours before pickup time and we will refund you the amount paid. You only have to notify us by email (during working hours, Mon-Fri 09:00 to 18:00) or calling the 24 hours helpline to the number specified in confirmation voucher.

Where will the driver meet me? Arriving to Istanbul Airports: The driver will be waiting for you at arrivals hall, inside airport terminal, after luggage claim. He/She will be holding a sign showing your name.

Departing from Istanbul to Airport: If you are being collected from a hotel, the driver will meet your group in the hotel’s main lobby. If you are being collected from a private apartment or villa, please have your group waiting out front at the scheduled pick-up time.

There any additional charges for credi card payment? No, there are no booking fees and no charge for PayPal, credit or debit card payment.

What happen in case of flight delay? All flights are monitored for delays to ensure the driver will be waiting for you when you arrive.

More details about your transfer will be provided on your Booking Voucher.  

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Istanbul (Turkey, Galataport)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Mediterranean - Black Sea

Local Time 2024-05-19 01:43

Port Istanbul cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Istanbul, Turkey, Galataport. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Istanbul is a major port city in Turkey, as well as the country's most populous and its historic, cultural and economic center. The city covers a total area of approx 1539 km2 (594 mi2) and has population around 14,1 million (metro around 14,8 million).

Historically known as Byzantium and Constantinople, Istanbul is a transcontinental city (located in both Europe and Asia) and straddling Bosphorus Strait between Black Sea and Marmara Sea (Eastern Mediterranean). The city's historical and commercial downtown is on the European side, and around 1/3 of its population is on the Asian side. Istanbul Metro is one of the world's most populous cities - ranked 7th-largest (city proper) and Europe's largest - followed by Moscow (Russia) and London (UK) . It also has one of world's fastest-growing metro economies.

Established under the name of Byzantion (around 660 BC), the city developed to become one of the most prominent in European history. After the reestablishment as Constantinople (330 CE), the city served as the imperial capital for nearly 16 centuries. The period included the Roman (330-1204), Byzantine (1261–1453), Latin (1204–1261) and Ottoman (1453–1922) empires. During Roman and Byzantine times, it was Christianity's second most important city (after Rome ), before in 1453 the Ottomans conquered and transformed it into an Islamic stronghold and Ottoman Caliphate's capital.

Istanbul has a strategic position on the Silk Road (rail networks from China to Middle East and Europe) and is also on the only sea route between Mediterranean Sea and Black Sea. Its population has increased tenfold since the 1950s. Music, film, cultural and arts festivals were established at the end of 20th century and continue to be hosted today. Infrastructure improvements and redevelopments have produced a complex transportation network.

Currently, Istanbul is ranked the world's 8th most popular tourist travel destination (as city), while Turkey is ranked the world's 6th (as country). Its biggest attraction is the historic downtown (partially listed as UNESCO Site), as well as entertainment and cultural venues (across the Golden Horn/natural harbor in Beyoglu district). Most tourists arrive via flights, but ~0,5 million foreigners arrive by ships/yachts annualy.

Port Istanbul

Port Istanbul (locode TRIST) as cruise port is both homeport (departure/turnaround) and call port, visited mainly as part of Eastern Mediterranean/Aegean Sea itineraries. Most voyages start in Italy ( Venice ) or Greece ( Piraeus-Athens ).

Some of the world's largest cruise brands with European seasonal programs - like Uniworld (river cruisetours packages combining flights to/from Istanbul), RCI-Royal Caribbean . Princess - were the first to drop Turkish ports (including Istanbul) from their 2016-2017-2018 schedules. These companies were soon followed by Celebrity , Azamara , Cunard , Holland America, P&O UK . All ports of call in Turkey were replaced by Greek Islands port destinations.

In 2015, the cruise port in Karakoy was closed down due to construction works for the new Galataport. The tourists' decline resulted in many street businesses closing down as tradesmen lost nearly 90% of their businesses in comparison to 2015. In 2016, the number of foreign tourists to Turkey decreased by 32% (down to 17,4 million) over 2015. There was a significant decrease in arrivals from Western- and Asian countries and from Russia. On June 6, 2019, Istanbul's Sarayburnu Port welcomed its first cruise vessel in 4 years - Seven Seas Voyager - operated by RSSC-Regent.

Turkey (previously a hugely popular travel and leisure/resort destination) was subject to a number of deadly terrorist attacks in 2016 and 2017. In June 2016, an Istanbul airport attack (shootings and suicide bombings) resulted in 42 deaths. In December 2016, a twin bomb attack outside a football stadium killed 38. There was also a shooting in the Reina nightclub (Ortakoy district of Istanbul) in January 2017 resulting in 39 dead and 69 injured.

In early-November 2018, CCL-Carnival Cruise Lines and RCI-Royal Caribbean International placed bids for the tendering operations of Istanbul's Port Yenikapı. Both companies are interested in building a new cruise port in Istanbul (as build/operate/transfer project) and intend to turn Istanbul into a Mediterranean cruise hub. CCL and RCI are represented here by Tura Tourism (a Turkish sales agency).

The Galataport project was initially scheduled for completion in March 2020. However, due to the Coronavirus crisis, the project was delayed and the cruise port was inaugurated in August 2021. The modern facility was planned for annual capacity ~1,5 million and daily capacity ~15,000 (passengers and crew). The largest cruise companies with booked berthing were RCI, Holland America, Marella UK , RSSC-Regent Seven Seas , Ponant , Silversea , Fred Olsen , Windstar , Celestyal .

Istanbul cruise terminal

Istanbul cruise port terminals are located near Galata Tower. Cruise ships dock at Karaköy Yolcu Salonu passenger terminal (at Beyoglu's southern tip). The terminal is located in Karakoy (Galata), on the waterfront of Bosphorus Strait. This whole area was redeveloped into the new Galataport cruise ship terminal complex.

Istanbul cruise port terminal is right in downtown (in close proximity to major tourist attractions) and approx 20 km / 12 mi (or 25-min) away from Ataturk Airport.

Cruise ships generally arrive in Istanbul and dock at the Salı Pazarı terminal between 8:30-9 AM. After disembarkation, passengers arrive to the shoreline Meclis-i Mebusan boulevard. All the port's ship docking quays are along the shore - starting from Golden Horn's mouth and going northeastward to the districts Findikli and Tophane.

Near the port is the tram station Fındıklı from where you can cross Galata Bridge and go to some of the city's most popular tourist destinations - Sultanahmet (Blue Mosque), Topkapi, Eminonu (Spice Bazaar), Beyazit (Grand Bazaar), Karakoy (Galata Tower), Dolmabahce Palace (5-min walk from the tram's last stop), Taksim Square. Istiklal Avenue (city's most popular street).

From the cruise terminal, Galata Bridge is at 10-min walking distance. At Galata Bridge's northern end (across Golden Horn) is Karakoy - the city’s oldest district. Via an underground cable-car you can go from Karaköy to Tunnel Square, from where an easy walk leads to Istiklal Avenue.

Yolcu Salonu passenger terminal is capable to accommodate 4 cruise ships at a time. If there are more vessels, the dock at Salipazari Pier. The cruise terminal building has 3 halls with combined capacity 10,000 passengers.

Galata Port

Ä°stanbul's new cruise port "Galataport" project originated in 2001 as a redevelopment project that combines functions complementing Turkey's capital city as a center of tourism, commerce and culture. The project covers a land area of 0,1 km2 (0,04 mi2), where the existing buildings (at Karaköy Yolcu Salonu) were renovated - keeping their authentic forms but acquiring new functions.

By this project, the city's customs zone was transformed into a modern tourism complex consisting of an art museum, hotels, restaurants and bars, fast food venues, shopping malls, numerous souvenir shops, office buildings, exhibition areas, car parking facilities.

The following Galataport map shows the Atakoy–Bakırkoy district development project. This district is the city's most populated. The development (started in 2013) planned to provide high-end residential properties, including boat and yacht marinas. The total land area is approx 0,5 km2 (0,2 mi2). It features a well-developed city transportation network - highways, railways, the Atatürk Airport (at just 8 km / 5 mi).

Salı Pazarı cruise terminal was temporarily closed for restoration (2015-2021). The new Galataport cruise terminal was initially scheduled for opening in 2018 but was eventually postponed for August 2021.

In May 2017, to Galataport's masterplan was proposed a new concept combining a movable gangway with underground cruise passenger operations. The idea includes a hydraulic boardwalk deploying a gangway during ship calls only (when a vessel is docked). As space, the hydraulic system takes only 3,5 m of the boardwalk.

Galataport was jointly built by Dogus Group (one of Turkey's largest private-sector holdings) and Bilgili Holding (real-estate developer and tourism investor). With an investment of ~TL 14,07 billion (USD 1,7B / EUR 1,43B), this is one of the world's largest coastal and cruise port projects, with annual capacity ~25 million visitors (including ~7M tourists and ~1,5M cruisers).

• Galataport Cruise Terminal has berthing capacity of 3x liners (simultaneously docked) and ~15,000 passengers.
• The first cruise ship docking at Galataport (on September 25-26, 2021/overnight) was MS Eurodam ( HAL-Holland America Line ).
• Istanbul Galataport's facilities feature an underground cruise terminal (world’s first) sized 29000 m2 / 312155 ft2 which has a unique access/hatch system. During ship days (with docked ships) the cruise terminal converts the port into an esplanade.

Besides being a cruise port, Galataport serves mainly as a leisure destination offering domestic tourists and citizens entertainment and activities themed on gastronomy/modern and traditional Balkan cuisine, shopping, arts, culture, modern tourist attractions and amenities. Galataport also houses a new art museum (Istanbul Modern), Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University, MSFAU (Museum of Painting and Sculpture), Tophane Square (Beyoglu district, with the mid-19th-century Tophane Clock Tower). More historical buildings also underwent restorations as part of the Galataport project - including Merkez Han, Karakoy Yolcu Salonu (passenger terminal), Karakoy Cinili Han, Peninsula Istanbul Hotel (2022-inaugurated).

• Galata Tower: half a kilometer away from Istanbul Cruise Port. Take a bird-eye view from the Galata Tower top. You will see the amazing modern part of Old Istanbul.
• Basilica Cistern: dates from the 6th century, one of the most romantic attraction.
• Aya Sofya: 4 km away from Istanbul Cruise Port. The extraordinary church dates from 6th century.
• Topkapi Palace: 3 km away from Istanbul Cruise Port. It is a must-see attraction. Topkapi used to be the home of many sultans generations. Discover the delicate kiosks, the lush green courtyards and the secretive harem.
• Ayasofya Hürrem Sultan Hamam: located in the Sultanahmet Square . It was built in the 16th century for Roxelana, the wife of Suleiman the Magnificent. You can also visit more steamy bathhouses like Cemberlita, Sulemaniye and Galatasaray baths.
• Blue Mosque: 4 km away from Istanbul Cruise Port, just across Aya Sofya. The Blue Mosque was designed by Sedefkar Mehmed Aga and dates from the early years of the 17th century. It is surrounded by small lively park.
• Istanbul Archaeology Museums: great place with section for all the family.
• Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum: housed in the former Ibrahim Pasha Palace.
• Suleymaniye Mosque: designed for Suleiman the Magnificent by Sinan, a famous Ottoman architect.
• Taksim Square: two and a half kilometers away from Istanbul Cruise Port.
• Grand Bazar: take a 20 minutes walk from Istanbul Cruise Port to find almost everything at this marketplace.
• Dolmabahce Palace: 3 km away from Istanbul Cruise port. The stunning palace was constructed in the period 1843-1856 by the architect of Sultan Abdulmecid, Karabet Balyan.

Daily tours from Istanbul to Edirne (departures every 2 hours) are also offered. The distance is approx 210 km (130 mi). Bus travel time is around 2,5 hours.

Istanbul tours, shore excursions, hotels

City tours and shore excursions.

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