Istanbul Timeless Treasures Tour for Cruise Passengers

Highlights of Istanbul Timeless Treasures Tour for Cruise Passengers

• Hagia Sophia
• Roman Hippodrome
• Ottoman Heritage
• Blue Mosque
• Topkapi Palace
• Caferaga Madrasah

Istanbul Timeless Treasures Tour is an experiential journey that will take you on a captivating exploration of Istanbul's rich history and cultural heritage. We will explore the city's Byzantine Heritage, including the Hagia Sophia and Roman Hippodrome, and its Ottoman Heritage, including the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Caferaga Madrasad. See the grandeur of Istanbul's past and explore the city's timeless treasures. We will guide you step by step on this incredible journey. 

Please note that when the Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays, we will visit the Basilica Cistern instead. 

Visitors are encouraged to dress modestly when visiting mosques, particularly at the Blue Mosque. Women must wear scarves inside the mosque, and shoes should be removed; they can be carried in a plastic bag.

Istanbul Timeless Treasures Tour for Cruise Passengers

• We will pick you up from Istanbul Cruise Port and drive you to the old city of Istanbul to explore this great city's Byzantine and Ottoman Heritage.
• We will visit Hagia Sophia, a timeless masterpiece that witnesses Istanbul's thousands of years of history. Hagia Sophia is an exceptional example of Greek architecture and was once renowned as the largest cathedral in the world. This historic structure has undergone significant changes, evolving from a pagan temple into a symbol of diverse beliefs and cultures.
• We will visit the Blue Mosque, also known as Sultan Ahmet Mosque. This architectural marvel combines Ottoman magnificence with elegant Islamic artistry for its blue Iznik tiles adorning the interior walls. You will have an inspiring experience visiting the Roman Hippodrome. It was built in 203 AD and used for centuries for chariot races and social events. Today, you can see remnants of this ancient hearth of Istanbul, including the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column, and the Walled Obelisk.
• We will explore Caferaga Madrasah, which Mimar Sinan built. Today, it is a center for traditional Turkish Arts. You can stroll through the corridors and discover workshops for ceramics, calligraphy, and marbling or enjoy the peaceful courtyard.
• Our journey will lead us to the Topkapi Palace, the residence of Ottoman Sultans for nearly four centuries. Today, it is a museum exhibiting significant Muslim relics, such as Muhammad's cloak and sword. Today, you can visit courtyards, pavillions, the Imperial Council Chamber, the Privy Chamber, the Imperial Treasury, and many more remnants of the remarkable Ottoman era.
• The last stop on our tour is the Grand Bazaar, the world's biggest and oldest covered market. It was built in 1455, right after Constantinople was conquered. Today, it feels like navigating a maze with 61 streets and over 3,000 shops, where you can find all sorts of stuff, from jewelry and antiques to unique souvenirs.
• As we wrap up this extraordinary adventure through Istanbul's history and culture, we will return you to the Istanbul Cruise Port.