Benefits

Is There an Advantage to Purchasing the Pass Early?

Yes! Buying the Istanbul Explorer Pass in advance allows you to plan your itinerary ahead of time and secure reservations for attractions that require booking. This ensures a smooth and well-organized travel experience. If you decide to purchase the pass last-minute, you can still arrange your visits efficiently. Our customer support team is available on WhatsApp to help you with your itinerary and answer any questions about your trip.

What Are the Benefits of the Istanbul Explorer Pass?

The Istanbul Explorer Pass grants access to top attractions in the city, offering a cost-effective and time-saving way to explore. The fully digital pass helps you skip long ticket lines. It includes a digital guidebook with detailed attraction info, maps, and travel tips. Customer support is available anytime to assist with your visit.

Does the Istanbul Explorer Pass Include a Guidebook?

Yes! The Istanbul Explorer Pass comes with a digital guidebook, providing complete details about attractions, opening hours, and visiting days. It also includes directions, a metro map, and local travel tips to help you navigate the city with ease. This guide enhances your experience by offering valuable insights for a well-planned visit.

How Much Can I Save with the Istanbul Explorer Pass?

You can save up to 40% on admission fees, depending on your stay duration and the attractions you visit. Even visiting the top landmarks will result in significant savings. If you need assistance in planning, our customer support team is always available to help.

Which Pass Offers the Best Savings?

The 6 Attractions Istanbul Explorer Pass provides the most value based on your time in the city. To find the best option for your trip, check the pricing page for all available pass options.

General

Is There a Daily Limit on Visiting Attractions?

No, there is no daily limit. The Istanbul Explorer Pass remains valid for 30 days from the first use. You can visit up to the total number of attractions included in your pass, with each attraction accessible once per pass.

How Does the Istanbul Explorer Pass Work?

  • Choose & Purchase – Select your Explorer Pass (2, 4, or 6 attractions) and complete your purchase online.
  • Instant Delivery – After payment, your pass is sent to your email immediately.
  • Manage Your Pass – Log into your account to track your reservations. For walk-in attractions, no booking is needed—just show your pass and enjoy.
  • Reservation for Certain Attractions – Some attractions require advance booking, which you can easily arrange through your Istanbul Explorer Pass account.
  • In Which Languages Is the Guidebook Available?

    The Istanbul Explorer Pass Guidebook is available in English, Arabic, Russian, French, Spanish, and Croatian.

    Are There Any Night Activities Included in the Istanbul Explorer Pass?

    While most attractions are available during the day, there are evening experiences included, such as the Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and the Whirling Dervishes Ceremony, offering unique nighttime entertainment.

    How Do I Activate My Istanbul Explorer Pass?

    You can activate your pass in two ways:

    1. Online Activation – Log into your pass account and select your preferred start date.
    2. First Usage Activation – Your pass is automatically activated when you present it at an attraction. The visit count starts from the first scanned entry.

    Will I Receive a Physical Card?

    No, the Istanbul Explorer Pass is a completely digital pass. After purchase, it is instantly sent to your email with a QR code and pass ID. You can manage your pass effortlessly through the Istanbul Explorer Pass customer panel.

    Can I Share My Pass with a Friend?

    You can purchase one pass for two people under the same pass ID, allowing both individuals to access attractions together. However, a single-person pass cannot be shared between two participants.

    Do I Have to Join Guided Tours for Museum Visits, or Can I Explore on My Own?

    Some government-managed museums do not offer digital tickets, so the Istanbul Explorer Pass provides guided tours with entry tickets. You must meet the guide at the designated time and location to enter. Once inside, you are free to explore at your own pace. However, our professional and knowledgeable guides offer valuable insights, so we recommend staying to learn more about the site's history. Check the attraction details for tour schedules.

    Validity Of Pass

    How Long Is the Istanbul Explorer Pass Valid?

    The Istanbul Explorer Pass is available for 2, 4, or 6 attractions. Once activated, you have 30 days to use it, starting from the date you select in your customer panel.

    Do the Passes Have to Be Used on Consecutive Days?

    No, the Istanbul Explorer Pass is valid for 30 days from the first activation. If you purchase a 6 Attractions Pass and complete all visits in 5 days, the pass will automatically expire once all attractions have been used.

    Purchase

    How Much Does the Istanbul Explorer Pass Cost?

    The cost of the Istanbul Explorer Pass varies based on the number of attractions included. Choosing a pass with more attractions offers greater savings. Click here to view the latest pricing details.

    What Currency Is the Istanbul Explorer Pass Charged In?

    The Istanbul Explorer Pass is priced in Euros (€). If you are purchasing from a non-Euro country, your bank will automatically convert the amount based on the exchange rate set by your country’s central bank.

    Can I Upgrade My Pass After Purchase?

    Yes! If you buy a 4 Attractions Pass and later decide to upgrade to a 6 Attractions Pass, simply contact customer support, pay the price difference, and continue using your pass. Please note: Once a pass has expired, it cannot be upgraded.

    Can I Purchase the Istanbul Explorer Pass While in Istanbul?

    Yes! The Istanbul Explorer Pass is fully digital, allowing you to buy it online anytime. Once purchased, you can start using it instantly without any delays.

    What Is the Age Definition for a Child?

    Children are classified as ages 5 to 12. Most attractions offer free entry for children under 5, so a pass is not required for them. However, certain activities like the Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and Day Trips provide meals and reserved seating for children under 5 at an additional cost upon request.

    Do I Need to Carry My or My Child’s ID During Visits?

    Yes, it's recommended to have at least a photo of your ID on your phone. Some attractions may require child ID verification for those using a Child Pass, and in certain cases, adult IDs may also be checked at the entrance.

    Are There Discounts for Groups, Seniors, or Students?

    The Istanbul Explorer Pass already offers up to 40% savings, making it a cost-effective option for visitors. There are no special discounts for seniors or students (except for children). For groups of 10 or more adults, please fill out the inquiry form, and our team will get back to you within 24 hours.

    Are Discount Codes Available?

    Discount codes are occasionally offered. To stay informed, subscribe with your email, and you’ll receive a notification whenever a discount code is available.

    Why Haven’t I Received My Confirmation Email?

    Your confirmation email is sent automatically within a minute after purchase. If you don’t see it, please check your spam or junk folder. If it’s still missing, feel free to contact us via WhatsApp or email for assistance.

    How Early Can I Purchase the Istanbul Explorer Pass?

    The Istanbul Explorer Pass remains valid for up to 2 years after purchase. If you're planning your trip in advance, you can buy it early and start managing reservations ahead of time. Making a reservation does not activate the pass—it is only activated upon first use.

    Can I Buy the Pass Online and Start Using It Immediately in Istanbul?

    Yes! After purchase, your digital pass is delivered instantly, allowing you to start using it within minutes. There’s no waiting—just buy online and access attractions right away.

    Can I Gift the Istanbul Explorer Pass to Someone?

    Yes! You can purchase the pass under the recipient’s name, making it a perfect gift for anyone visiting Istanbul.

    Attractions

    What Are the Standard Ticket Prices for Attractions?

    The Istanbul Explorer Pass ensures significant savings. You can check the regular admission fees for each attraction on the Istanbul Attractions page.

    Does the Pass Cover All Attractions in Istanbul?

    The Istanbul Explorer Pass includes most of the city’s top attractions, allowing you to visit major landmarks without additional fees. Check the attraction list for full details.

    Can I Visit the Same Attraction More Than Once?

    No, each attraction can be visited only once with the Istanbul Explorer Pass. The system does not allow multiple entries to the same attraction.

    Are Attractions Open Year-Round? Do They Have Closed Days?

    Most attractions are open throughout the year, but on national holidays, regional celebrations, and January 1st, some may have delayed opening hours. Additionally, certain museums are closed one day per week. Check the attraction details for specific opening schedules.

    Where Can I Find the Opening and Closing Times of Attractions?

    You can view the operating hours for each attraction on the Attraction List page.

    How Can I Reach Attractions Outside Central Istanbul?

    Some out-of-city attractions, such as Bursa and Sapanca & Maşukiye, include hotel pick-up and transportation. For other locations, you can use public transport. Your pass and guidebook come with a detailed transportation map to help you navigate easily.

    Reservations

    Do I Need to Reserve Attractions in Advance?

    Certain attractions, such as the Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and Bursa Day Trip, require prior reservations. You can easily book through your pass account. Once confirmed, the provider will send you pickup details. Simply show your pass (QR code) to the transfer staff, and you're all set to enjoy your experience!

    Do I Need to Reserve Guided Tours in Advance?

    Some attractions included in the Istanbul Explorer Pass offer guided tours. You must meet the guide at the designated time and location, which is listed in the attraction details. At the meeting point, the guide will be holding an Istanbul Explorer Pass flag. Simply show your pass (QR code) to the guide, and you’re ready to enter.

    How Far in Advance Can I Reserve Attractions?

    You can book your reservations for required attractions up to 24 hours before your planned visit.

    Will I Receive a Confirmation After Making a Reservation?

    Yes! Once you make a reservation, it will be sent to the service provider, who will then email you a confirmation. If the attraction includes hotel pick-up, your pick-up time will also be provided in the confirmation email. Make sure to be ready at your hotel lobby at the scheduled time.

    How Do I Make a Reservation for Required Attractions?

    After purchasing your pass, you will receive an access link to manage your pass panel. Simply:

    1. Click on "Reserve Tour" in your panel.
    2. Fill out the form with your hotel name and preferred tour date.
    3. Submit the form—your reservation is complete!

    The service provider will send a confirmation email within 24 hours.

    Cancellation & Refund

    Can I Get a Refund? What If I Can’t Travel on My Selected Date?

    The Istanbul Explorer Pass remains valid for 2 years after purchase and can also be canceled within this period. You can use your pass on any date within these 2 years, as it is only activated upon first use or when making a reservation for an attraction.

    Can I Get a Refund If I Don’t Use the Full Value of My Pass?

    • The Istanbul Explorer Pass ensures savings by offering discounted access to attractions compared to standard ticket prices.
    • If the total gate price of the attractions you visited is less than the amount you paid for the pass, the difference will be refunded within 4 business days after your request.
    • Note: Any reserved attractions must be canceled at least 24 hours in advance to avoid being counted as used.

    Can I Transfer My Pass to a Friend If I’m Not Visiting Istanbul?

    Yes! If you’re unable to travel, you can transfer your pass to a friend. Simply contact our customer support team, and they will update the pass owner details immediately, making it ready for use.

    Buying Online

    Is It Secure to Purchase Online?

    Yes! www.istanbulpass.net is a secure platform for online purchases. Your credit card details are not stored after the transaction, and your personal information remains private and protected.

    How Do I Receive My Pass After Purchasing Online?

    Your Istanbul Explorer Pass will be sent instantly to the email address provided during checkout. The email will include:

    • Your QR code pass
    • A digital guidebook
    • A metro map
    • Access links to manage your pass

    You can start using it immediately upon receipt.

    Which Payment Methods Are Accepted?

    We accept Visa, Mastercard, and Pay, ensuring a secure and convenient payment process.

    Digital Pass

    How Does the Istanbul Explorer Pass App Work?

  • Download the app from the Google Play Store or Apple Store.
  • Click on "My Pass" and enter your Explorer Pass ID.
  • Once logged in, you can easily view attractions, manage reservations, and plan your visits.
  • I Lost My Confirmation Email. How Can I Access My Pass Account?

    If you can’t find your confirmation email, simply contact our customer support team, and we will resend it to your email address immediately.

    Can I Enter Attractions by Showing My Confirmation Email?

    Your confirmation email includes an access link to your E-pass customer panel, where you can view your QR code and Pass ID. This is what you’ll use for entry.

    For attractions that require reservations, you must book in advance through your pass panel before visiting.

    Do I Need to Print My Pass?

    No, printing is not required. You can access your Explorer Pass directly from your customer panel. If you anticipate being offline, you may take a screenshot or print a copy for convenience.

    Transportation

    Where Can I Get an Istanbul Transportation Card?

    In Istanbul, public transportation requires an Istanbul Kart. You can purchase one from kiosks near transit stations and reload it as needed. Alternatively, single-use (5-trip) cards are available at vending machines near kiosks, which accept Turkish Lira.

    For detailed instructions, visit the "How to Get Istanbul Kart" blog page.

    What Transportation Services Are Included in the Istanbul Explorer Pass?

    Public transportation is not included in the Istanbul Explorer Pass. However, the pass covers:

    • Pick-up and drop-off for the Bosphorus Dinner Cruise
    • Full-day transportation for Bursa, Sapanca, and Maşukiye tours

    For other locations, travelers can use public transport with an Istanbul Kart.

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