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.
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
by FromFlorida
The biggest surprise were the people. They were great
Visited: Jun 03, 2015
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
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
by Risser
Blue Mosque was not worth the long wait
Visited: Sep 11, 2014
by grandinmk
Did a full day tour which was amazing.
Visited: Sep 06, 2015
by moweaqua
We did the Capitol of Two Empires tour. Fast paced and long. Mosques are by their nature not very ornate on the inside so the photo ops are mostly on the outside. City is crowded and a tad dirty. Could have saved money in Istanbul by staying on board the ship.
Visited: Aug 25, 2015
by tygerness
Go inside the Hagia Sophia - it is a museum now.
Visited: Jun 24, 2015
by sheryldb
I knew I was "not in Kansas anymore". The Turkish lira (about 3 for each US dollar) enabled us to eat well for a very reasonable price. Fresh squeezed orange juice on the street was 50 cents for an 8 oz glass. A full dinner, gigantic salad, meat, rice, LOAF of bread, cost $10 each. You will hear the call to prayer at least once, and see a republic in which modern western attire and customs mingle with traditional Muslim dress and customs. Everyone was very friendly, but do not count on natives knowing English. Stayed at the Karakoy Port Hotel (the night before boarding the ship) for under $140.00. It is located a few blocks from the port. There is gilt trim on doors, cabinets, and celings; the beds are comfortable; coffee, tables and chairs on the roof for a great view (and a smoke if you desire); free, generous, delicious European style breakfast (NO donuts and white rolls - Turkish bread is substantial and wonderful). After the cruise we took the Classical Istanbul tour (IBF1) during which we saw all the sites listed in the description. The tour was long, as were the lines to get into certain parts of the Museum (jewels). Again, tour took so long that we were rushed, did not have time to use the bathrooms or shop or just stop and rest. (Remember, the heat might get to you, and we were there in early June when temperatures were in the lower 80'sF.)
Visited: Jun 01, 2015
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