Port
Istanbul, Turkey
Activity Level
Strenuous
Excursion Type
All
Wheelchair Accessible
No
Starting At
$64.95
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
Duration
Approximately 4½ Hours
Meals Included
Meals not included
A German-speaking guide leads this tour (or a guide with a German interpreter). A limited number of German guides and interpreters are available in this port; book early to avoid disappointment. This is not a bilingual tour; please see Panoramic Istanbul: Asia & Europe for the same tour guided in English.
Europe and Asia meet in the city of Istanbul. See the best of both continents with a panoramic drive by motorcoach.
Your guide will point out Beylerbeyi Palace in Asia and the ancient city walls and Suleymaniye Mosque in Europe. Watch for the Hippodrome, where ancient Byzantine entertainment spectacles such as gladiator fights and chariot races took place. This beautiful elliptical park features an obelisk from Egypt dating to 3000 BC.
Visit the Blue Mosque with its six minarets and stunning blue interior.
En route back to the ship, you will also glimpse the Topkapi Palace and Byzantine St Sophia Church. Pause to shop at the Grand Bazaar and view a carpet demonstration.
Notes:
Expect dense traffic conditions in Istanbul. Modest attire is required; knees, shoulders and midriffs must be covered, and women must cover their head with a scarf, which will be provided by Blue Mosque. You must remove your shoes at the mosque(s). Shoe bags are provided. Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience. All tours in the Old Town require considerable walking, as it is closed to traffic. The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays and during Ramadan; shopping will take place in stores just outside the Grand Bazaar. Tour does not operate on Fridays.