Overview
Leave your cruise ship at Istanbul port and explore the city’s rich Jewish heritage on this full-day private shore excursion. Hear how exiled Sephardic Jews (those of Spanish origin) were welcomed into the city in 1492, and discover the history, landmarks and districts that the Jewish community has held dear ever since.
See inside four iconic synagogues, experience the colorful old Jewish district of Balat; visit the Jewish Museum of History, and admire the views from the Galata Tower. This private excursion ensures full attention from the guide.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Mobile ticket
- Hotel pickup offered
What's included
Professional guide
Transport by private, air-conditioned minivan
Port pickup and drop-off
Covered by Viator’s worry-free policy
Gratuities
Food and drinks, unless specified
Entrance Fees
Meeting and pickup
Pickup is offered for all travelers.
What to expect
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Askenazi Synagogue
7 hours
Meet your private guide at the port and board your air-conditioned minivan to begin your full-day shore excursion of the city’s Jewish heritage. Head first for the old Jewish neighborhood of Karaköy and its Ari Ashkenazi Synagogue. Founded in 1900 and known as the Austrian Temple, the building is Istanbul’s only working synagogue for Ashkenazi Jews. After viewing its ornate interior, visit the nearby, 1950s-built Neve Shalom, the city’s largest synagogue for Sephardic Jews. Next, cross the Golden Horn to the traditional Jewish area of Balat. Along the way, call at the Ahrida Synagogue, the city’s oldest synagogue, that dates way back to the 1430s.
Enjoy stunning views of the city from the 14th-century Galata Tower and then visit the Jewish Museum of Turkey, formerly the Zülfaris Museum.
Finish in Ortaköy, the site of the Sephardic Jews’ first landings in the 15th century. Please note: the order of activities as described above may be subject to change on the day of your tour.
Cancellation Policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Times are local to the experience (Europe/Istanbul).
Additional Information
- It is highly recommended that you wear comfortable clothes and shoes
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 10 travelers per booking
- Each booking must include at least one adult.
FAQs about Istanbul Shore Excursion: Private Full-Day Jewish Heritage of Istanbul Tour
Can I cancel Istanbul Shore Excursion: Private Full-Day Jewish Heritage of Istanbul Tour for free?
No. All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
How long does it take?
It takes about 7 hours.
Is pickup offered?
Pickup is offered for all travelers.
What's included?
- Professional guide
- Transport by private, air-conditioned minivan
- Port pickup and drop-off
- Covered by Viator’s worry-free policy
What's not included?
- Gratuities
- Food and drinks, unless specified
- Entrance Fees
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English.
Is it suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Operated by Fez Travel
