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A few days to Explore - İstanbul

Duratıon

4 - 6 Hours

Tour Type

Private

Group Size

1 - 12

Language

English

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.

Detail Information
Duration Approx. 4–5 hours
Departure Point Hotel or Cruise Port (Galataport)
Language English
Private Tour Yes (customizable)
Walking Level Moderate – mostly flat areas
Dress Code Modest attire for synagogue entry
  • 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

Group Size Vehicle Type Price per Person Total Price
1 person Mercedes Vito $200 $200
2 people Mercedes Vito $130 $260
3 people Mercedes Vito $100 $300
4 people Mercedes Vito $90 $360
5 people Mercedes Sprinter $85 $425
6 people Mercedes Sprinter $80 $480
7 people Mercedes Sprinter $75 $525
8 people Mercedes Sprinter $70 $560
9 people Mercedes Sprinter $65 $585
10 people Mercedes Sprinter $60 $600
11 people Mercedes Sprinter $58 $638
12 people Mercedes Sprinter $55 $660
  • 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)

Are your tours private or group-based?

We offer both private and small group tours. Most of our cultural packages are private by default, but we also run small group options on specific dates. If you prefer exclusivity and flexibility, private tours are ideal.

Can I customize a tour based on my interests?

Absolutely. We specialize in customized itineraries tailored to your preferences, timing, group size, and interests (e.g. religious sites, history, gastronomy, shopping, family-friendly). Let us know what matters to you, and we’ll create your ideal experience.

Are your tours suitable for cruise passengers?

Yes. We offer shore excursions specially designed for cruise guests. Some are only suitable if your ship stays overnight or departs late, so always provide your cruise details when booking. Port pick-up and drop-off are included.

Do your tours include hotel pick-up and drop-off?

Yes. All of our tours include pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in Istanbul or the city where the tour starts. We also offer airport or cruise port transfers upon request.

Are meals included in the tour price?

Usually, meals are not included, unless specified in the itinerary. However, we always provide trusted restaurant recommendations during the tour, and your guide will assist you in choosing the right option.

Are entrance fees included?

Entrance fees to museums, archaeological sites, and attractions are usually not included, unless clearly stated. This allows guests to decide which optional sites they want to enter and gives flexibility with national vs. foreign visitor pricing.

What kind of vehicles do you use?

We use modern, licensed, and air-conditioned vehicles:

  • For 1–4 guests: Mercedes Vito or similar

  • For 5–12 guests: Mercedes Sprinter or similar

  • For larger groups: Tour coaches with microphone & AC
    All vehicles are clean, insured, and driven by professional chauffeurs.

Do you provide multilingual guides?

Yes. Our default guiding language is English, but we also offer guides in Bahasa Indonesia, Spanish, French, Arabic, and more upon request. Let us know your preference at the time of booking.

Is tipping required?

Tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated if you’re satisfied with the service. A general guideline is around €5–10 per person for full-day tours.

What is your cancellation policy?

We offer flexible cancellation policies depending on the tour type and notice period. Generally:

  • Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the tour

  • 50% fee if canceled within 24–48 hours

  • No refund for cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance
    Custom and multi-day tours may have separate policies, shared at booking.

How do I book a tour?

You can book via:

  • WhatsApp: [your number]

  • Email: [your email]

  • Booking form on our website
    For customized itineraries, we recommend contacting us directly to discuss the best options for your group.

What should I bring with me?

Depending on the tour, we suggest:

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Weather-appropriate clothing (hat/sunscreen or warm layers)

  • Modest attire for religious sites

  • Passport copy (sometimes required for certain monuments)

  • Camera, reusable water bottle, and a curious spirit!

Are your tours suitable for travelers with limited mobility or disabilities?

We strive to accommodate travelers with mobility limitations, disabilities, or special needs. Since most of our tours are private and flexible, we can adjust the pace, stops, and logistics based on your comfort level.

However, please be aware that certain historical sites may include:

  • Uneven ground or cobblestone streets

  • Limited wheelchair accessibility

  • Steps or narrow passages in older buildings

We strongly recommend that you inform us in advance if anyone in your group:

  • Uses a wheelchair or mobility aid

  • Has difficulty walking long distances

  • Requires frequent rest stops

  • Has any condition that may affect tour participation

We will do our best to:

  • Choose more accessible routes

  • Modify the itinerary if needed

  • Get as close as possible by vehicle to each stop

  • Suggest alternatives where necessary

Our goal is to create a comfortable and enjoyable experience for every guest. Don’t hesitate to contact us to discuss your specific needs — we’ll personalize the tour accordingly.

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