Shore Excursion: Istanbul in a Day



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Duration: 7h 30m
Location: Istanbul, Turkey | Istanbul, Turkey


Category: Attractions

Highlights:
Luxurious halls & magnificent gardens of Topkapi Palace
History of the Byzantine Hagia Sophia basilica
Impressive tile work at the Blue Mosque
Reliving the era of the Roman hippodrome
Shopping time at the vibrant Grand Bazaar

Inclusions:
Guided excursion to Topkapi Palace, Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Agia Sophia, and the Grand Bazaar
Admission fees
Lunch
Pickup and drop-off from Istanbul cruise port
Live tour commentary provided in English

Description:

Explore the must-see sights in the Turkish capital, explore Byzantine and Ottoman monuments, and learn about the history and culture of Istanbul on this full-day tour. You also visit the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi, and Blue Mosque before indulging in a traditional Turkish meal.

Meet your guide at the port and head to the city center. Start with a visit to Topkapi Palace, previously used to host the Ottoman sultans, now converted into a fascinating museum. Follow your guide through luxurious halls and magnificent gardens as you admire a unique collection of Chinese porcelain artifacts and precious jewels, with the famous Topkapi Diamond being the highlight.

Continue to the Imperial Harem before venturing toward the Roman Hippodrome. Hear how this venue was used in the past to hold up to 250,000 spectators. Pause at the Snake Column from Delphi and the Egyptian obelisk, coming from Luxor.

Then follow your guide to the Blue Mosque, exploreing its most impressive corners. Don't miss a photo opportunity of the famous blue Iznik tiles. Move toward the Hagia Sophia and marvel at this grandiose building with an interior decorated with marble and pillars from Ephesus.

End at the Grand Bazaar, where you explore the culinary traditions of the country and learn how locals go about their day-to-day lives. Enjoy some traditional Turkish meze before returning to your ship.



Cancellation Policy: 8 days
Know before you book: Children 4 and younger are complimentary., This activity is not wheelchair accessible., The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays; you will visit the Spice Market instead., Hagia Sophia is closed on Mondays; you will visit the Underground Cistern instead., Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays; you will visit the Underground Cistern instead., You will be returned to the cruise port up to an hour before your departure time., In case of cancellation because of bad weather conditions or a change in your ship's itinerary, a full refund will be provided.

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