Istanbul, Turkey overview

Once called Constantinople, the former capital of the Byzantine Empire is the only city in the world to straddle two continents: Europe and Asia. This is the Golden Horn, the door between East and West, and your first vision of its domes and minarets is unforgetable. Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Sultan treasures in Topkapi Palace await - as does the Grand Bazaar, laden with carpets, beaten brass and spices from afar.

Best Istanbul, Turkey excursions

Spice Bazaar, Kadikoy Market Tour and lunch!

Spice Bazaar, Kadikoy Market Tour and lunch!

$254/Adult

Your guide will meet you at the port of Istanbul. Start your tour from the European side of Istanbu...

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In the Kitchen with a Turkish Chef

In the Kitchen with a Turkish Chef

$190/Adult

After we meet we will stop for a Spice tasting session in a Spice shop that has been operating for f...

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Journey Along the Bosphorus with Spice Market

Journey Along the Bosphorus with Spice Market

$262/Adult

We'll meet you at the cruise pier (or hotel) and journey to Istanbul's famous Spice Market (also kno...

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Istanbul by Night

Istanbul by Night

$156/Adult

We will make our way from the cruise port and into the heart of Istanbul where we will visit a resta...

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Istanbul, Turkey expert cruise advice

10 Best Things to Do in Istanbul, Turkey

Here's our list of the best things to do in Istanbul, Turkey, a vibrant megalopolis of more than 13 million and a city of many contrasts you must experience.

7 Ways to Save Money on Your Next Cruise

Saving money on a cruise ship is easier than you might think. Even after you book, there are other strategies to save money once your cruise begins.

Best Baklava: Karaköy Güllüoglu, Istanbul

Where can you get Turkey’s iconic desserts when you’re in Istanbul? Surprise! One of the city’s oldest and best pastry shops is right near the ship terminal.

Top Compact Digital Camera for Your Cruise Vacation

Need a new digital camera for your cruise vacation? Preserve your memories in excellent clarity with one of these excellent compact digital cameras.

How to Haggle Like a Pro

Whether you’re at the Straw Market in Nassau or the Spice Bazaar in Istanbul, knowing how to negotiate price is a skill that can save you a lot of cash.

Map of Istanbul, Turkey

279 Istanbul, Turkey Port Reviews

5

by Mikeontheroad

Modern clean port. Very impressed. Easy tram service to the old town area. Ticket machines for the tram could be improved. Took me forever to buy a 3 rides ticket. (Maybe it was just me) Great city with lots of History. Found some items cheaper outside the bazaar (if you are here to shop). Great food and coffee shops. One of my favorite days on the recent cruise.

3

by leecarr

Istanbul was beautiful and unlike any other port we visited however, it was one of our least favorites. There were just so many people that we didn't enjoy getting shuffled everywhere.

Visited: Aug 01, 2015

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5

by stl4

Must see the Palace, Spice Bazaar and Hagia Sophia. Beware of carpet/scarf salesmen, although they were pushy, they were also very nice at the same time.

Visited: Jun 12, 2015

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5

by dennisjleciejew

Sail into Istanbul was a little later in the morning so everyone could enjoy the view. Ship docked in a great location. Took tram to historical area. Visited Hagia Sofia, Cisterns, Grand Bazaar, Spice Market and Blue Mosque. Fantastic day. Highlight of the trip!

Visited: Sep 06, 2015

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