Visiting Istanbul for the first time or planning to return? The Istanbul MegaPass is a popular Istanbul tourist pass and a great way to explore the city while saving money and skipping the long ticket queues. This pass provides access to Istanbul’s top attractions, like Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and more. But is it really worth it? In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the pass, including whether it can truly enhance your Istanbul experience.
Overview of Each Pass
The Istanbul MegaPass offers three options: Classic, Premium, and Deluxe, each catering to different types of travelers. Here’s what you get:
- Classic Pass: Ideal for short stays, includes the Blue Mosque tour, a Bosphorus cruise, access to two top attractions, and basic public transport.
- Premium Pass: A step up, providing access to four major attractions along with everything in the Classic Pass. This pass is perfect for those wanting a deeper dive into Istanbul’s rich culture.
- Deluxe Pass: The all-inclusive option with access to every attraction, a Bosphorus cruise, the Blue Mosque, and extensive public transport coverage. If you’re staying longer or want to see everything, this is your best bet.
Each pass comes with skip-the-line access, making it easier to visit high-demand sites without wasting precious vacation time. Whether you’re a history buff or a first-time visitor, there’s a pass suited to your needs.
Istanbul MegaPass Options Detailed Breakdown
1. Classic Pass: Best Seller
Price: €98.00 (Save 27%)
The Classic Pass is designed for travelers who want to explore the top attractions in Istanbul without the pressure of visiting every landmark. It includes a mix of essential experiences like the Bosphorus Cruise and Blue Mosque tour, along with two additional attractions of your choice.
Free Inclusions:
- Bosphorus Cruise
- Blue Mosque Tour
- 5 Ride Transportation Card
Choose 2 Top Attractions:
- Hagia Sophia
- Topkapi Palace
- Basilica Cistern
- Dolmabahçe Palace
- Asian Side Walking Tour
- Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour
- Turkish Bath / Hamam
- Dervish Ceremony
- Dinner Cruise with Turkish Night, food, and drinks
Highlights:
- Skip-the-line access to chosen attractions.
- 5 public transport rides, making it easier to explore Istanbul.
- A digital city guide to help you navigate, along with a city, tram, and metro map.
- Save on airport transfers at the MegaPass airport desk (€43 instead of €50).
- Tickets are mobile-friendly, and you can change your selected attractions anytime.
Why Choose the Classic Pass? The Classic Pass is perfect for visitors staying in Istanbul for a few days who want to hit the highlights without overcommitting. It offers flexibility while still ensuring you experience two of Istanbul’s top attractions.
Book Your Istanbul MegaPass Classic
2. Premium Pass: Best Value
Price: €148.00 (Save 32%)
The Premium Pass is ideal for travelers looking for a more in-depth exploration of Istanbul, providing access to four major attractions along with everything included in the Classic Pass. This pass gives you a better mix of cultural, historical, and recreational activities.
Free Inclusions:
- Bosphorus Cruise
- Blue Mosque Tour
- 5 Ride Transportation Card
Choose 4 Top Attractions:
- Hagia Sophia
- Topkapi Palace
- Basilica Cistern
- Dolmabahçe Palace
- Asian Side Walking Tour
- Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour
- Turkish Bath / Hamam
- Dervish Ceremony
- Dinner Cruise with Turkish Night, food, and drinks
Highlights:
- Enjoy museums, cruises, guided tours, and night activities.
- Skip ticket lines and maximize your sightseeing time.
- Get 5 rides on public transport, perfect for longer stays.
- Use the digital city guide and map to navigate the city more effectively.
- Save on airport transfers, paying just €43 at the MegaPass airport desk.
Why Choose the Premium Pass? For visitors who plan to stay longer or have more time to explore, the Premium Pass offers better value by covering four attractions. Whether you’re into history, culture, or a mix of both, this pass gives you flexibility and convenience.
Book Your Istanbul MegaPass Premium
3. Deluxe Pass: All-Inclusive
Price: €249.00 (Save 34%)
For the ultimate Istanbul experience, the Deluxe Pass gives you access to nine top attractions plus everything included in the Premium and Classic passes. This is the perfect option for those who want to explore the city thoroughly without worrying about additional costs.
Free Inclusions:
- Bosphorus Cruise
- Blue Mosque Tour
- 5 Ride Transportation Card
All-Inclusive Top Attractions:
- Hagia Sophia
- Topkapi Palace
- Basilica Cistern
- Dolmabahçe Palace
- Asian Side Walking Tour
- Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour
- Turkish Bath / Hamam
- Dervish Ceremony
- Dinner Cruise with Turkish Night, food, and drinks
Highlights:
- All top attractions are included without any limitations.
- 5 rides on public transportation.
- Use the skip-the-line privilege to save time.
- Save on airport transfers at €43.
- Access to a digital city guide with maps for easy navigation.
Why Choose the Deluxe Pass? The Deluxe Pass is perfect for travelers who want to explore every nook and cranny of Istanbul without worrying about paying for individual tickets. This all-inclusive option is excellent for longer stays and those who want to immerse themselves in both the city’s iconic sites and hidden gems.
Book Your Istanbul MegaPass Deluxe
Important Information for All Passes
- Flexible Itineraries: After purchasing any pass, you’ll receive instructions on how to schedule and visit your chosen attractions.
- Mobile Tickets: No need for paper tickets—just show your digital pass at the venue.
- No Reservations Required: You can visit attractions anytime within the pass’s 7-day validity period, without needing to reserve in advance.
Is the MegaPass Worth It?
Let’s break down the numbers and evaluate whether the Istanbul MegaPass is truly worth your investment. The Deluxe Pass costs €249, but when you compare it to purchasing individual tickets, the savings quickly add up. Here’s an approximate breakdown of key attractions and their individual prices:
- Hagia Sophia entry: €15
- Topkapi Palace: €20
- Basilica Cistern: €10
- Dolmabahçe Palace: €20
- Bosphorus Cruise: €30
- Dinner Cruise with Turkish Night: €50+
- Public transport (5 rides): €10
That’s already €155 for just a handful of the attractions included in the Deluxe Pass. When you factor in additional experiences like the Turkish Bath, the Dervish Ceremony, and the Asian Side Walking Tour, the cost can easily surpass €300 if purchased separately. With the Deluxe Pass priced at €249, you’re looking at a potential savings of €50+, depending on how many activities you include in your itinerary.
Similarly, the Premium Pass at €148 offers considerable savings if you plan to visit four major attractions. For example, visiting Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, a Bosphorus Cruise, and the Basilica Cistern individually could cost around €75-€100, but the Premium Pass includes additional perks like skip-the-line entry, 5 rides on public transport, and access to the Blue Mosque tour, making it a better value.
For those on a shorter trip, the Classic Pass at €98 still provides a cost-effective way to experience two top attractions plus a Bosphorus Cruise, saving you about €20-30 when compared to buying individual tickets.
Conclusion: If you’re planning to visit at least three or more major sights, the MegaPass is a no-brainer in terms of value. The Deluxe Pass is especially great for families, as children under 12 can often enter free. Plus, the convenience of skip-the-line access, easy public transportation, and mobile bookings adds significant value, enhancing your overall experience in Istanbul.
Istanbul MegaPass vs Other Passes
There are a few competing options, like the Istanbul Tourist Pass and E-Pass, each with slightly different offerings. Here’s how the MegaPass stacks up:
- Istanbul Tourist Pass: Similar to the Premium and Deluxe MegaPass but includes additional experiences. It can be an option for tech-savvy travelers who need constant connectivity.
- Istanbul E-Pass: Focuses on skip-the-line entry to over 35 attractions but doesn’t include as many guided tours. It can be an option for those who prefer to explore on their own.
In essence, if you’re a traveler who wants a blend of independent exploration and guided tours, the MegaPass is your best choice. It’s flexible and comprehensive, with more public transport benefits than the others, making it perfect for those who want to see Istanbul’s best sights without logistical hassles.
Best Itineraries Using the MegaPass
Here are a few sample itineraries to help you get the most out of your MegaPass.
2-Day Itinerary (Classic Pass)
- Day 1: Start with a Blue Mosque tour, then visit Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace.
- Day 2: Enjoy a scenic Bosphorus cruise and end the day with a visit to the Basilica Cistern.
3-Day Itinerary (Premium Pass)
- Day 1: Explore Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace.
- Day 2: Visit the Dolmabahçe Palace and go underground at the Basilica Cistern.
- Day 3: Relax on the Bosphorus cruise and explore the bustling Grand Bazaar.
5-Day Itinerary (Deluxe Pass)
- Day 1: Start with a Blue Mosque tour and Hagia Sophia.
- Day 2: Spend time at Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cistern.
- Day 3: Discover Dolmabahçe Palace, followed by a Bosphorus cruise.
- Day 4: Explore the city’s museums and the Grand Bazaar.
- Day 5: Finish with the Whirling Dervish show and any remaining attractions.
These itineraries are flexible and can be adjusted based on your preferences. If you have more time, consider adding lesser-known spots like the Chora Museum or Galata Tower.
How it Works
Pick your Pass
Receive your Tickets
Tickets will be sent out to you 1 day before the service date. And in the meantime you can also change the chosen attractions as many times as you want. Or you can cancel the pass with free of charge up to 1 day before the service date.
Start Exploring
How to Make the Most of the Pass
To maximize your MegaPass, follow these insider tips:
- Start early: Popular attractions like Hagia Sophia can get crowded, even with skip-the-line access.
- Use public transport: The pass includes extensive coverage, making it easy to navigate the city without additional costs.
- Plan ahead: Some attractions require reservations, so schedule your activities as soon as you receive your confirmation email.
- Optimize your days: Visit attractions close to each other, like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, on the same day to save time.
Conclusion: Is the Istanbul MegaPass Right for You?
If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to explore Istanbul’s top attractions while saving money, the Istanbul MegaPass is definitely worth it. It offers excellent value, especially if you plan to visit multiple sites and use public transport. Whether you’re in Istanbul for a couple of days or an entire week, the MegaPass will enhance your experience and make your trip smoother.
Ready to make the most of your Istanbul adventure? Purchase your Istanbul MegaPass today and unlock the city’s most iconic sights with ease! Start planning your dream itinerary and avoid long queues with skip-the-line benefits.