Best of Istanbul
Explore St. Sophia (Hagai Sophia) which was built by the Emperor Justinian when Istanbul was Constantinople. This magnificent example of Byzantine architecture boasts a massive done, a lengthy nave, and an interior decorated with marble, precious stones, and pillars from Ephesus.
You'll visit Topkapi Palace, a huge walled complex hugging the Bosporus. This is the former palace of the Ottoman sultans and now a museum with an extraordinary collection of Chinese porcelain, art, artifacts, and jewels, including the Topkapi Diamond.
Tour the harem of Topkapi Palace which was carefully situated so that it could not be seen from the state apartments or the courtyards where public affairs were conducted. The home of the sultan and his primary living quarters is an exceptional insight into how the sultans lived.
You'll see the Blue Mosque six graceful minarets adorn the elegant mosque, one of the city's most recognized landmarks. The superb interior is decorated with more than 20,000 blue Iznik tiles.
Dine at the Topkapi Palace for a delightful lunch featuring Turkish specialties and beverages.
Departures (Local Time)
9:00 AM (Hours: 6)
Inclusions
- Motorcoach
- English-speaking tour guide
- Lunch featuring Turkish specialties and beverages
Tips
Be sure to bring your camera.
Excursions listed for a port may not be available for every cruise.
Departure Location
At the cruise ship pier. The specific meeting location at the pier will be listed in your confirmation email and voucher for this shore excursion. See the 'Redemption and Voucher Details' section below.
Redemption and Voucher Details
- After you complete your booking, your credit card will be charged and our expert Shore Excursion Concierge agents will 'hand'-review your shore excursion selections against your cruise itinerary to confirm compatibility. Your credit card statement will list the merchant for the charges as Port Promo Cruise Tours.
- You will receive an email within 72 hours of booking from info@portpromotions.com which confirms your booking and contains the vouchers required for your shore excursions. Please print these vouchers and bring them with you on your cruise. You will be required to turn the voucher(s) in to the corresponding shore excursion supplier(s). The vouchers feature information regarding how to meet up with the tour leader upon arrival to a port and other important details.
- Your tour is completely refundable if your ship is unable to get into port or due to weather cancellations. See our terms and conditions for complete details.