Silversea Luxury Cruises To ISTANBUL

Explore Istanbul through the centuries during this scenic and memorable, half-day introduction to some of the city's major attractions.

Depart the pier for the drive into Istanbul and a visit to the Chora Museum, Chora's former 'Church of the Saviour'.

Chora Museum

The Chora Museum dates from the early-12th century. It contains some of Istanbul's finest Byzantine frescoes and mosaics depicting the life of Christ; they are superbly-preserved and tremendously evocative. Plastered over during the 18th century when the Chora became a mosque, these vibrant and important pieces of Byzantine art were originally commissioned in 1315 by philosopher, theologian and senior Byzantine official Theodore Metochites. The frescoes and mosaics you will see here at Kariye are not only truly amazing works of art, but are significant, moving pieces of history.

Hagia Sophia Museum

Your tour continues with a visit to the St. Sophia Museum, also known as the 'Church of Divine Wisdom'. First erected by Constantine in 325 A.D. and later rebuilt by the Holy Roman Emperor Justinian, the museum is considered the Eighth Wonder of the World by many historians. At one time, it may have been the world's largest building, and as a manmade structure ranked only behind the Great Pyramids of Egypt and the Great Wall of China. For many centuries, St. Sophia was the world's largest church, and today remains the fourth-largest behind St. Paul's in London, St. Peter's in Rome, and Duomo in Milan. The minarets that tower above the gigantic dome were added after Istanbul's conquest in 1453, when the church was converted into a mosque. This magnificent monument and outstanding example of Byzantine architecture was declared a museum in 1935.

Underground Cistern

Located near St. Sophia is the vast underground chamber known as the 'Sunken Palace'. Built by Justinian, this grand cistern features 336 columns supporting the roof and atmospheric lighting that adds to the unique ambience. After descending a flight of stairs, follow the guide along a maze of walkways through this subterranean 'palace'. Following your exploration of the reservoir, proceed for a visit to the Grand Bazaar.

Grand Bazaar

The world's largest covered market, this famous institution occupies a whole city quarter. Sections spanning a maze of lanes and alleys separate the various trades. A short orientation and general directions are offered before setting out on your own to browse the precious handmade carpets, jewellery, leather and souvenirs. Keep your eyes out for bargains, and get ready to negotiate and soak in the unparalleled atmosphere of one the world's great merchant centres. Following your visit, re-board the coach for the return drive to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking with 52 steps to reach the underground cistern, and is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. The tour sequence may vary. A minimum number of participants is required to operate this tour. Hagia Sophia is generally closed to the public on Mondays, however it remains open during the summer season.

Discover why luxury is par for the course during this memorable, half-day golfing excursion in Istanbul.

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive to the world-class Kemer Golf & Country Club. Undisputedly the most exquisite golf course in Istanbul, Kemer is nestled in the hills of the Belgrade Forest, and highlighted by immaculately-maintained greens, forests and ponds.

This Par-73, 18-hole course meets USGA standards, hosts national and international tournaments, and is ideal for beginners and professional golfers. Following your relaxing round of golf at the beautiful and challenging Kemer Golf & Country Club, re-board your coach and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, soft spike shoes and sun protection are recommended. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Discover Istanbul's historic treasures during this memorable, half-day orientation tour of the city.

Depart the pier for a scenic orientation drive through the bustling Karakoy District, then cross the Golden Horn en route to the Old City.

Hippodrome

From the port, your coach heads toward the Hippodrome, the centre of Byzantium's life for nearly 1,000 years, and for another 400 during Ottoman rule. With seating for 100,000, the Hippodrome was Constantinople's political and entertainment hub, hosting gladiator fights, chariot races, and other sporting events. The most prominent monument remaining today is the impressive granite obelisk, brought here from Egypt in 390 A.D.. Leaving the Hippodrome, continue on to the Blue Mosque.

Blue Mosque

One of two supreme Imperial mosques built during the Ottoman Empire, the Blue Mosque, also known as the 'Sultan Ahmed Mosque', is one of the world's most famous religious monuments. The interior of this expansive building is a triumph in harmony, proportion, and elegance. It is adorned with wonderful stained-glass windows and 20,000 Iznik tiles that combine to create a stunning coloured effect.

St. Sophia Museum

Your tour continues with a visit to the St. Sophia Museum, also known as the 'Church of Divine Wisdom'. First erected by Constantine in 325 A.D. and later rebuilt by the Holy Roman Emperor Justinian, the museum is considered the Eighth Wonder of the World by many historians. At one time, it may have been the world's largest building, and as a manmade structure ranked only behind the Great Pyramids of Egypt and the Great Wall of China. For many centuries, St. Sophia was the world's largest church, and today remains the fourth-largest behind St. Paul's in London, St. Peter's in Rome, and Duomo in Milan. The minarets that tower above the gigantic dome were added after Istanbul's conquest in 1453, when the church was converted into a mosque. This magnificent monument and outstanding example of Byzantine architecture was declared a museum in 1935.

Grand Bazaar

Your tour concludes with a visit to the Grand Bazaar. The world's largest covered market, this famous institution occupies a whole city quarter. Sections spanning a maze of lanes and alleys separate the various trades. A brief orientation and general directions are offered before setting out on your own to browse the precious handmade carpets, jewellery, leather, and souvenirs. Keep your eyes out for bargains, and get ready to negotiate and soak in the unparalleled atmosphere of one the world's great merchant centres.

Following your visit, re-board the coach for the return drive to the pier.

Please note: This tour includes a moderate amount of walking and many steps at the entrance to the Blue Mosque. Guests who utilise a wheelchair will need to wait outside at the garden of the mosque. Proper attire is required to enter the Blue Mosque; no shorts above the knee or sleeveless tops are permitted, ladies must have their heads, shoulders and arms covered, and shoes must be removed at the entrance. The tour sequence may vary.

Discover Istanbul's historic treasures during this memorable, half-day orientation tour of the city.

Depart the pier for a scenic orientation drive through the bustling Karakoy District, then cross the Golden Horn en route to the Old City.

Hippodrome

From the port, your coach heads toward the Hippodrome, the centre of Byzantium's life for nearly 1,000 years, and for another 400 during Ottoman rule. With seating for 100,000, the Hippodrome was Constantinople's political and entertainment hub, hosting gladiator fights, chariot races, and other sporting events. The most prominent monument remaining today is the impressive granite obelisk, brought here from Egypt in 390 A.D.. Leaving the Hippodrome, continue on to the Blue Mosque.

Blue Mosque

One of two supreme Imperial mosques built during the Ottoman Empire, the Blue Mosque, also known as the 'Sultan Ahmed Mosque', is one of the world's most famous religious monuments. The interior of this expansive building is a triumph in harmony, proportion, and elegance. It is adorned with wonderful stained-glass windows and 20,000 Iznik tiles that combine to create a stunning coloured effect.

St. Sophia Museum

Your tour continues with a visit to the St. Sophia Museum, also known as the 'Church of Divine Wisdom'. First erected by Constantine in 325 A.D. and later rebuilt by the Holy Roman Emperor Justinian, the museum is considered the Eighth Wonder of the World by many historians. At one time, it may have been the world's largest building, and as a manmade structure ranked only behind the Great Pyramids of Egypt and the Great Wall of China. For many centuries, St. Sophia was the world's largest church, and today remains the fourth-largest behind St. Paul's in London, St. Peter's in Rome, and Duomo in Milan. The minarets that tower above the gigantic dome were added after Istanbul's conquest in 1453, when the church was converted into a mosque. This magnificent monument and outstanding example of Byzantine architecture was declared a museum in 1935.

Spice Market

Find the flavour of Istanbul here… known as the Egyptian Bazaar in Turkish (Misir Carsisi), this is of one of the best places from where to take a taste of the city home with you. One of numerous markets in Istanbul, this is a great one to stroll through, sampling the aromatic air of spices from across Turkey, the Middle East, and Northern Africa. Be enticed by other shops of all flavours and types, selling goods ranging from sweets and spices to clothes, watches, Turkish souvenirs, exotic aphrodisiacs, Iranian caviar and Turkish saffron.

Following your visit, re-board your coach for the return drive to the pier.

Please note: This tour includes a moderate amount of walking and many steps at the entrance to the Blue Mosque. Guests who utilise a wheelchair will need to wait outside at the garden of the mosque. Proper attire is required to enter the Blue Mosque; no shorts above the knee or sleeveless tops are permitted, ladies must have their heads, shoulders and arms covered, and shoes must be removed at the entrance. Tour sequence may vary.

Discover Istanbul's historic treasures during a scenic and memorable half-day orientation tour of the city with hotel transfer.

Depart the pier for a scenic orientation drive through the bustling Karakoy District, then cross the Golden Horn en route to the Old City.

Yeni Camii

With a total of 66 domes and two soaring minarets, Yeni Camii or 'New Mosque' is one of the hallmarks of the Istanbul skyline. The interior is richly decorated with colorful tiles, scripts from the Quran, marbles, gold and a colorful and intricately decorated dome standing at 36 meters high. Following the visit of the mosque, you will move on to visit the seat of the Ottoman Sultans.

Topkapi Palace Museum

Your tour continues with a visit to the Topkapi Palace Museum. The palace was the seat of the Ottoman Empire for nearly four centuries, and the location from which the sultans ruled large portions of the globe. Built between 1465 and 1478, the palace offers superb views across the Bosphorus to the Sea of Marmara, and across the Golden Horn to the skyline of Galata and greater Istanbul. The palace was ruled by 25 sultans over a 400-year period, and subsequently converted into a museum in 1924. Although a single visit can only cover a fraction of this fabled, Ottoman palace, a walking tour takes you through some of the various palace rooms and offers a look at some of the dazzling treasures on display. Highlights of your visit include the palace kitchen and Treasury, which showcases the 86-carat Spoonmaker Diamond and equally-impressive Emerald Dagger

Grand Bazaar

Your tour concludes with a visit to the Grand Bazaar. The world's largest covered market, this famous institution occupies a whole city quarter. Sections spanning a maze of lanes and alleys separate the various trades. A brief orientation and general directions are offered before setting out on your own to browse the precious handmade carpets, jewellery, leather and souvenirs. Keep your eyes out for bargains, and get ready to negotiate and soak in the unparalleled atmosphere of one the world's great merchant centers.

Following your visit, re-board the coach for the return to the ship.

Please note: This tour includes a moderate amount of walking. Proper attire is required to enter the Mosque; no shorts above the knee or sleeveless tops are permitted, ladies must have their heads, shoulders and arms covered, and shoes must be removed at the entrance. The tour sequence may vary. A minimum number of participants is required to operate this tour. Grand Bazaar is closed on Sunday and will be replaced with a visit to the Spice Market. The Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays and will be replaced with a visit to the Hagia Sophia Museum. The Yeni Camii is closed on Fridays and will be replaced with a panoramic drive along the ancient walls and Golden Horn.

Experience the beauty of the famous Bosphorus waterway during this half-day tour.

A visit to Istanbul just isn't complete without a cruise on the famous Bosphorus, the storied waterway separating Istanbul's two sides, European and Asian. This tour also includes a panoramic drive across to Asia and visits to two outstanding museums.

Spice Market

Your tour begins with a visit to the Spice Market. Known as the Egyptian Bazaar, or 'Misir Carsisi' in Turkish, the bustling Spice Market is a memorable venue in which to sample the aromatic spices from across Turkey, the Middle East and Northern Africa. In addition to spices, the Spice Market features numerous vendors and shops selling a wide array of goods, including sweets, clothing, watches, Turkish souvenirs, exotic aphrodisiacs, Iranian caviar, Turkish saffron, and more.

Hekimbasi Salih Efendi Yalisi

Following your visit to the Palace, visit the yali house owned by the grand children of Sultan's Chief Physician.. This is the red painted Hekimbasi Salih Efendi Yalisi between Kanlica and Anadolu Hisari. This Yali consists of one-floor, two-floor and three-floor premises and was built by Sultan Abdülmecit's Chief Physician Salih Efendi in 1848. After completing your visit to yali, enjoy home-made lemonade and the cookies offered by the owners of the house. Continue your program with a cruise on the Bosphorus in a boat chartered exclusively for Silversea guests..

Bosphorus Cruise

Mark Twain, once a steamship captain on the Mississippi, waxed lyrical about the Bosphorus. Today the views are a delightful mixture of past and present, giant tankers and little fishing boats, unforgettable castles, towering minarets and world-famous landmarks including the Haghia Sophia and Blue Mosque. View modern luxury hotels standing next to Ottoman wooden villas, marble palaces and rustic fortresses. Your cruise will be approximately 1.5 hours.

Following your cruise, providing you a chance to experience the beauties of this world famous water way, return to the dock for the transfer back to the ship's pier.

Please note: This tour involves moderate walking and is suitable for guests with limited mobility, however neither the boat nor the palace are wheelchair accessible. We recommend guests were seasonal, comfortable clothing and shoes with non-slip soles. The order of sites visited may vary.

Discover Istanbul's historic treasures during a scenic and memorable half-day orientation tour of the city en route to the airport.

Depart the pier for a scenic orientation drive through the bustling Karakoy District, then cross the Golden Horn en route to the Old City.

Yeni Camii

With a total of 66 domes and two soaring minarets, Yeni Camii or 'New Mosque' is one of the hallmarks of the Istanbul skyline. The interior is richly decorated with colorful tiles, scripts from the Quran, marbles, gold and a colorful and intricately decorated dome standing at 36 meters high. Following the visit of the mosque, you will move on to visit the seat of the Ottoman Sultans.

Topkapi Palace Museum

Your tour continues with a visit to the Topkapi Palace Museum. The palace was the seat of the Ottoman Empire for nearly four centuries, and the location from which the sultans ruled large portions of the globe. Built between 1465 and 1478, the palace offers superb views across the Bosphorus to the Sea of Marmara, and across the Golden Horn to the skyline of Galata and greater Istanbul. The palace was ruled by 25 sultans over a 400-year period, and subsequently converted into a museum in 1924. Although a single visit can only cover a fraction of this fabled, Ottoman palace, a walking tour takes you through some of the various palace rooms and offers a look at some of the dazzling treasures on display. Highlights of your visit include the Treasury, which showcases the 86-carat Spoonmaker Diamond and equally-impressive Emerald Dagger.

Grand Bazaar

Your tour concludes with a visit to the Grand Bazaar. The world's largest covered market, this famous institution occupies a whole city quarter. Sections spanning a maze of lanes and alleys separate the various trades. A brief orientation and general directions are offered before setting out on your own to browse the precious handmade carpets, jewelry, leather and souvenirs. Keep your eyes out for bargains, and get ready to negotiate and soak in the unparalleled atmosphere of one the world's great merchant centers.

Following your visit, re-board the coach for the drive to the airport.

Please note: This Tour & Transfer is offered to you as Select tour option. The reduced cost reflects the cost of the transfer only, as the tour component is included with our compliments. This tour includes a moderate amount of walking. Proper attire is required to enter the Mosque; no shorts above the knee or sleeveless tops are permitted, ladies must have their heads, shoulders and arms covered, and shoes must be removed at the entrance. The tour sequence may vary. A minimum number of participants is required to operate this tour. This tour will conclude at the Istanbul International Airport for guests with flights after 3:00 p.m. Grand Bazaar is closed on Sunday and will be replaced with a visit to the Spice Market. The Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays and will be replaced with a visit to the Hagia Sophia Museum. The Yeni Camii is closed on Fridays and will be replaced with a panoramic drive along the ancient walls and Golden Horn.

Discover Istanbul's historic treasures during a scenic and memorable half-day orientation tour of the city with hotel transfer.

Depart the pier for a scenic orientation drive through the bustling Karakoy District, then cross the Golden Horn en route to the Old City.

Yeni Camii

With a total of 66 domes and two soaring minarets, Yeni Camii or 'New Mosque' is one of the hallmarks of the Istanbul skyline. The interior is richly decorated with colorful tiles, scripts from the Quran, marbles, gold and a colorful and intricately decorated dome standing at 36 meters high. Following the visit of the mosque, you will move on to visit the seat of the Ottoman Sultans.

Topkapi Palace Museum

Your tour continues with a visit to the Topkapi Palace Museum. The palace was the seat of the Ottoman Empire for nearly four centuries, and the location from which the sultans ruled large portions of the globe. Built between 1465 and 1478, the palace offers superb views across the Bosphorus to the Sea of Marmara, and across the Golden Horn to the skyline of Galata and greater Istanbul. The palace was ruled by 25 sultans over a 400-year period, and subsequently converted into a museum in 1924. Although a single visit can only cover a fraction of this fabled, Ottoman palace, a walking tour takes you through some of the various palace rooms and offers a look at some of the dazzling treasures on display. Highlights of your visit include the palace kitchen and Treasury, which showcases the 86-carat Spoonmaker Diamond and equally-impressive Emerald Dagger

Grand Bazaar

Your tour concludes with a visit to the Grand Bazaar. The world's largest covered market, this famous institution occupies a whole city quarter. Sections spanning a maze of lanes and alleys separate the various trades. A brief orientation and general directions are offered before setting out on your own to browse the precious handmade carpets, jewellery, leather and souvenirs. Keep your eyes out for bargains, and get ready to negotiate and soak in the unparalleled atmosphere of one the world's great merchant centers.

Following your visit, re-board the coach for the drive to the hotel.

Please note: This Tour & Transfer is offered to you as Select tour option. The reduced cost reflects the cost of the transfer only, as the tour component is included with our compliments. This tour includes a moderate amount of walking. Proper attire is required to enter the Mosque; no shorts above the knee or sleeveless tops are permitted, ladies must have their heads, shoulders and arms covered, and shoes must be removed at the entrance. The tour sequence may vary. A minimum number of participants is required to operate this tour. This tour will end at the Ceylan Intercontinental Hotel for guests staying in Istanbul. Grand Bazaar is closed on Sunday and will be replaced with a visit to the Spice Market. The Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays and will be replaced with a visit to the Hagia Sophia Museum. The Yeni Camii is closed on Fridays and will be replaced with a panoramic drive along the ancient walls and Golden Horn.

Explore Istanbul at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customize your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Istanbul at your leisure during your half-day (4 Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customize your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Istanbul at your leisure during your full-day (8 Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customize your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car or van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 6 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Istanbul at your leisure during your half-day (4 Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customize your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 6 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Experience the splendid beauty, lifestyles and traditions of Istanbul during this picturesque, half-day excursion by land and sea.

Spice Market

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 30-minute drive to the bustling Spice Market. Upon arrival, take in the colourful sites and people whilst strolling past aromatic stalls filled with vendors offering exotic Turkish flavours and spices, including oregano, sage, cumin, mint, dill, and more.

Bosphorus Cruise

Next, embark an exclusive, private boat for a leisurely cruise on the Bosphorus, one of the world's most storied and beautiful waterways. As you glide along the shimmering waters, pass by elegant domes and minarets standing majestically on the shores, tiny fishing boats bobbing in the wake of huge ships and lovely natural harbours.

Afternoon Tea

Following your relaxing boat-ride, dock at the Ciragan Palace Hotel - Kempinski. Upon arrival, proceed for afternoon tea served with local specialities, and accompanied by stunning panoramic vistas of the Bosphorus and Asian sides of Istanbul. Afterward, commence the approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and embark/disembark the boat. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility, but is not wheelchair-accessible. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Experience a unique and authentic excursion during this half-day tour.

Depart the pier with your guide for the short drive to the fragrant and colourful Istanbul Spice Market

Spice Market

Find the flavour of Istanbul here… known as the Egyptian Bazaar in Turkish (Misir Carsisi), this is of one of the best places from where to take a taste of the city home with you. One of numerous markets in Istanbul, this is a great one to stroll through, sampling the aromatic air of spices from across Turkey, the Middle East, and Northern Africa. Be enticed by other shops of all flavours and types, selling goods ranging from sweets and spices to clothes, watches, Turkish souvenirs, exotic aphrodisiacs, Iranian caviar and Turkish saffron.

Hurrem Sultan Turkish Bath

Hamam in Turkish means 'public bath', and the baths were a very important fixture in Ottoman society, a tradition passed down from the Romans to the Byzantines, and then the Turks. Hagia Sophia Hurrem Sultan Bath was built in 1556 by the famous architect Sinan by the order of Sultan Suleyman, The Magnificent to honour his wife Hurrem.

Men and ladies will go to their separate changing areas and then to the main bath. The raised marble platform, known as the 'Gobek Tasi' or navel stone is positioned above the furnace, providing the heat and steam for the bath, and is the heated surface for massages.

After your massage, be exfoliated, cleansing the body, prior to your bath. Slip back into your towel and reality and enjoy some refreshments, including tea or coffee as you marvel at this uniquely relaxing Turkish experience.

At the end of the tour, return to the pier.

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking and is not suitable for guests who utilise a wheelchair. Due to the environment within the Turkish bath, this tour is not recommended for guests who may have cardiological conditions. Order of sites may vary.

Discover and taste Istanbul's authentic Ottoman cuisine during this full-day culinary tour

Spice Market

Find the flavour of Istanbul here… known as the Egyptian Bazaar in Turkish (Misir Carsisi), this is of one of the best places to take a taste of the city home with you. One of numerous markets in Istanbul, this is a great one to stroll through, sampling the aromatic air of spices from across Turkey, the Middle East, and Northern Africa. Here you will taste different Turkish specialties with your guide at different vendors

Topkapi Palace and Kitchens

Your next stop will be the Topkapi Palace Museum. The palace was the seat of the Ottoman Empire for nearly four centuries and the location from which the sultans ruled large portions of the globe. Built between 1465 and 1478, the palace offers superb views across the Bosphorus to the Sea of Marmara, and across the Golden Horn to greater Istanbul. The palace was ruled by 25 sultans over a 400-year period, and subsequently converted into a museum in 1924. Here you will visit the kitchens where the famous Ottoman recipes were prepared for the Ottoman sultans.

Multi-Course Dining Experience

After you visit of the Palace, you will arrive at a local restaurant that specializes in the old Ottoman recipes. Before your elegant lunch, you will also get a chance to see an Ottoman-style candy workshop. Guests will then enjoy a multi-course, authentic Turkish meal, which will be served family-style.

Grand Bazaar

After your leisurely lunch, it will be the time to visit Grand Bazaar. The world's largest covered market, this famous institution occupies a whole city quarter. Sections spanning a labyrinth of lanes and alleys separate the various trades.

Following your visit, re-board the coach for the return drive to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Only water, tea or coffee will be served with lunch, however other beverages, including alcoholic, will be available a la carte. Lunch will be served in large, family-style portions on the table. Please bring local currency or USD if you wish to purchase additional beverages during lunch or souvenirs at the Spice Market or Grand Bazaar.

Experience the splendid beauty, lifestyles and traditions of Istanbul during this picturesque, half-day excursion by land and sea.

Bosphorus Cruise

Embark an exclusive, private boat for a leisurely cruise on the Bosphorus, one of the world's most storied and beautiful waterways. As you glide along the shimmering waters, pass by elegant domes and minarets standing majestically on the shores, tiny fishing boats bobbing in the wake of huge ships and lovely natural harbours.

Afternoon Tea

Following your relaxing boat-ride, dock at the Ciragan Palace Hotel - Kempinski. Upon arrival, proceed for afternoon tea served with local specialities, and accompanied by stunning panoramic vistas of the Bosphorus and Asian sides of Istanbul. Afterward, commence the approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and embark/disembark the boat. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility, but is not wheelchair-accessible. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Discover the historic treasures of Istanbul during this delightful, half-day orientation tour of the city.

Topkapi Palace Museum

The palace was the seat of the Ottoman Empire for nearly four centuries, and the location from which the sultans ruled large portions of the globe. Built between 1465 and 1478, the palace offers superb views across the Bosphorus to the Sea of Marmara, and across the Golden Horn to the skyline of Galata and greater Istanbul.

The palace was ruled by 25 sultans over a 400-year period, and subsequently converted into a museum in 1924. Although a single visit can only cover a fraction of this fabled, Ottoman palace, a walking tour takes you through some of the various palace rooms and offers a look at some of the dazzling treasures on display. Highlights of your visit include the palace kitchen and Treasury, which showcases the 86-carat Spoonmaker Diamond and equally-impressive Emerald Dagger.

Following your visit, you will spend some time in Istanbul's exotic Spice Market before re-boarding your coach for the return drive to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended.

Discover the historic treasures of Istanbul during this delightful, half-day orientation tour of the city.

Topkapi Palace

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 30-minute drive to the 15th-century Topkapi Palace, seat of the Ottoman Empire for nearly four centuries. Along the way, pass through the bustling Karakoy District, then cross the Golden Horn en route to the Old City.

Upon arrival at the Topkapi Palace, which was converted into a museum in 1924, begin your guided walking tour. Explore some of the many palace rooms, and marvel at the dazzling treasures on display. Highlights include the

Treasury, which showcases the 86-carat Spoonmaker Diamond and equally-impressive Emerald Dagger. Your tour also features the famous Harem section, the subject of numerous books and movies.

Grand Bazaar

Next, proceed to the Grand Bazaar. The world's largest covered market, this famous institution occupies an entire city quarter. Sections spanning a maze of lanes and alleys separate the various trades. Following a brief orientation and general directions, some free time is made available to explore the Grand Bazaar independently. Browse precious handmade carpets, jewellery, leather and other souvenirs whilst taking in the unparalleled atmosphere of one the world's great merchant centres. Following your visit, re-board the coach and commence the short drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended.

Enjoy the culture and cuisine of Turkey during this evening tour.

Following your departure from the pier, arrive at Hodja Pasha Culture Center. This Culture Center is located at the centre of the historical peninsula of Istanbul and was converted from a 550 year old historical turkish bath called Hocapaşa Hamamı in 2008. It was originally built by Hoca Sinan Paşa who was a teacher and later vizier to Fatih Sultan Mehmet during 1470's. At this center, watch the famous Sema Ritual. Mevleviye are known for their famous practice of whirling dances and dervishes. At their dancing ceremonies, or Sema, a particular musical repertoire called ayin is played. The Sema ceremony represents a mystical journey of man's spiritual ascent through mind and love to Perfect.

At the end of the program, travel a short distance by van to arrive at the Hamdi Restaurant, which is one of the well-known restaurants in the city for the famous Turkish Kebaps. Enjoy your meal while overlooking the views of the Golden Horn and the old city.

After the dinner, re-join your van for the return drive to the pier and your awaiting ship.

Please note: This tour involves minimal walking and is suitable for guests with limited mobility; however it is not wheelchair accessible. We suggest guests dress in evening casual attire and bring a sweater or light jacket for evening temperatures; however the ceremony is religious in its nature and modest clothing is recommended. Space is extremely limited on this programme and we recommend guests reserve their tickets early to avoid disappointment.