Explore the Legacy of Jewish Culture in the Heart of Istanbul

Discover the unique story of Jewish life in Istanbul, from Sephardic migration to the vibrant community that still thrives today. Ideal for heritage seekers, history lovers, and cruise ship guests looking for an intimate and respectful cultural experience.

Your private guide will meet you at your hotel or directly at the cruise port (Galataport or Sarayburnu) holding a sign with your name. We begin our exploration in the historic Jewish quarters of Galata and Balat, neighborhoods that have hosted Jewish communities for centuries.

Highlights of the tour include a visit to the Neve Shalom Synagogue and the Jewish Museum of Turkey, offering rich insights into the Sephardic and Ashkenazi traditions of Istanbul’s Jewish population. You’ll also explore the Ahrida Synagogue, dating back to the 15th century, and the active Ashkenazi Synagogue, located near Galata Tower.

As we walk through these districts, you’ll discover Jewish schools, bakeries, and stories of survival, integration, and cultural richness — all deeply woven into the fabric of Istanbul’s identity.

• Professional licensed English-speaking guide

• Pre-arranged synagogue visit permissions

• Private transfers (if requested)

• Port/hotel pick-up and drop-off  (if purchased Vehıcle Service)

• Optional kosher snack stop

• Entrance donation/fee to synagogues (if required by foundation)

• Meals or drinks unless stated

• Personal expenses or souvenirs

• Travel insurance

• Gratuities for the guide (optional)

Up to 6 hours – Includes vehicle, driver, fuel, parking, and tolls
Pricing is per person, based on group size

• Private A/C Mercedes Vito (1–4 pax) or Mercedes Sprinter Minibus (5–12 pax)

• Licensed professional driver

• Pick-up and drop-off at hotel or cruise port

• Fuel and parking fees

• Toll/bridge charges (if applicable)

• Flexible routing within Istanbul

• Maximum usage time: 6 hours (includes all waiting and travel time)

• Prices are valid only when booked with the private tour

• Traffic conditions will be taken into account when planning schedule

• For usage over 6 hours, extra charges may apply ( every 1 hour 100 usd/Group)

• Groups larger than 12 guests: please contact us for custom vehicle and pricing

• Synagogue access requires advance permission – please book at least 3–4 days ahead

• Passport or ID details are required for synagogue security

• Synagogues are closed on Saturdays (Shabbat)

• The tour can be adapted for religious observance or special interest (e.g. Sephardic history focus, cemetery visits, etc.)

Cruise passenger? No worries. This tour is designed with port timings in mind. We ensure a timely return to your ship, with flexible scheduling according to your docking time.

Want to include a kosher lunch? Add a visit to an old Jewish cemetery? Focus more on the Sephardic migration stories or include personal family heritage research? Just let us know — we’ll tailor the experience for you.

• Private licensed English-speaking guide

• Pre-arranged synagogue entry permissions

• Hotel or cruise port meeting

• Customizable tour route

• Synagogue donation/entry fees (approx. $10–15 per person, payable on site)

• Transportation (optional, extra charge)

• Meals, drinks

• Gratuities for the guide (optional)