Step off your ship and into history with our Istanbul Timeless Treasures Tour, specially designed for cruise passengers. This is a full-day experience taking you through the heart of the old city, where Byzantine and Ottoman legacies stand side by side. Let’s start with the magnificent Hagia Sophia. It is a monument that has witnessed the city’s transformation for over 1,500 years, and continue to the Roman Hippodrome, once the center of chariot races and imperial ceremonies. Visit the world-famous Blue Mosque, with its dazzling Iznik tiles, and explore the grand Topkapi Palace, home of the Ottoman sultans for nearly four centuries. You’ll also stop at the Caferaga Madrasah, where traditional Turkish arts like calligraphy and ceramics are still practiced, before diving into the vibrant energy of the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. With pick-up and drop-off directly from the cruise port, modest dress guidelines provided for mosque visits, and an itinerary tailored for cruise schedules, this tour offers the perfect way to experience the very best of Istanbul in one unforgettable day.
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 bears witness to Istanbul’s rich history spanning thousands of years. 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, featuring blue Iznik tiles that adorn 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 the 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 that exhibits significant Muslim relics, including Muhammad’s cloak and sword. Today, you can visit courtyards, pavilions, 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.