Explore the best of Istanbul on this 1-day sightseeing shore excursion. Every corner in Istanbul is surrounded by mystery and breath-taking history. If you don’t have too much time, but want to get the most out of your 1-day visit then this excursion provides the best option.
Duration: 8 Hours
Operating Days: Daily ( Except Tuesdays )
Pier pick-up time: 09:00am at Istanbul cruise ship port
Child Ages: 5-11
Discover the best of Istanbul on this 1-day sightseeing excursion. On this tour, you will have the opportunity to visit the majority of Istanbul’s monumental architectural masterpieces of the Historical Peninsula and explore the Grand Bazaar.
HIGHLIGHTS
Inclusions
Exclusions
Tour Highlights:
- Full-day, eight-hour tour of Istanbul and its main attractions
- Expert, english speaking tour guide
- All entrance fees
- Complimentary Pier transfers
Originally named Constantinople, Istanbul was once the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire and Europe’s wealthiest metropolis and is now the largest city in Turkey.
Blue Mosque: One of the most famous monuments in both the Turkish and Islamic worlds, the Sultan Ahmet Mosque (also known as the Blue Mosque) is a superb creation in the classical Ottoman style. The mosque has six towering minarets and 260 windows illuminating its vast main chamber, which is decorated with more than 20,000 Iznik tiles.
Hagia Sophia: Now a museum, the Hagia Sophia was built in the 6th century by the Roman Emperor Justinian, and was one of the largest basilicas in the Christian world. After the Ottoman conquest, it was converted to a mosque, and is today one of the most magnificent museums in the world. Take a moment to linger here to admire the fine Byzantine mosaics. (Closed on Mondays; will be replaced with Chora Museum)
Topkapi Palace: The largest and oldest palace in the world, Topkapi was the crown jewel of the Ottoman Empire. With its treasury and exotic buildings overlooking the Golden Horn, your visit to Topkapi promises to be a truly fascinating experience. (Closed on Tuesdays)
Hippodrome and Obelisk: The Hippodrome was once the heart of Constantinople’s political and sporting life, and the scene of games and riots through 500 years of Ottoman history. Today it is a city park called the At Meydanı (Horse Grounds) because of its function in Ottoman times. The Hippodrome includes the 3500-year-old Egyptian granite Obelisk, brought to Constantinople by Emperor Theodosius in 390 AD.
Grand Bazaar: In operation since the 14th century, the Grand Bazaar is one of the world’s largest covered markets, with 58 streets and over 4,000 shops. The bazaar is specially known for its jewelry, leather, pottery, spices and carpets. (Closed on Sundays; additional time will be spent at the other locations.)