Mediterranean

Istanbul, Turkey

     

Draped mysteriously across two continents, Istanbul is a heady blend of East and West. So succumb to the allure of the Grand Bazaar, whose 4,000 stalls bombard the senses, and an invigorating hamam, or traditional bathhouse. Gaze upon the minarets of the wondrous Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace, whose bejewelled treasures reflect the extravagance of powerful sultans.


Highlights

BLUE MOSQUE
One of Istanbul's most well-known landmarks with its cascading domes and six minarets. The Blue Mosque is spectacular both inside and out.

TOPKAPI PALACE
One of the world's largest and oldest palaces still in existence, this palace was converted into a museum and now houses many Turkish artefacts from the 15th century onwards.

GRAND BAZAAR
The Grand Bazaar consists of 60 streets and 5,000 shops and is perfect to purchase jewellery, hand-painted ceramics, carpets, embroideries, spices and antiques while soaking up the bustling atmosphere that surrounds it.

TURKISH BATHS
No visit to Turkey is complete without a traditional hamam.

SULTANAHMET
The old peninsula of Istanbul is home to some of the most important buildings in the city. The Sultanahmet Mosque is the only mosque in the world with six minarets.

ISTIKLAL STREET
One of the city's leading shopping and entertainment districts.

Shore Excursions