Day 01
Istanbul Landmarks and Historic Bazaars
- Get picked up from your centrally located hotel or cruise ship, from where you will start your day.
- Start at the old Hippodrome of Constantinople, the old city's sports and social center. More recently known as Sultan Ahmet, it is still home to some of the major works of art in the world, brought there by Theodosius the Great to raise the city's image. These include the Obelisk from Egypt, the Serpentine Column from Delphi, and the Fountain of Wilhelm II, which was constructed by the German government.
- From there, proceed to the Blue Mosque, whose six minarets are a key fixture of Istanbul's skyline. Admire the 17th-century edifice, and marvel at the thousands of bright blue Iznik tiles that coat its interior.
- Next, head to Topkapı Palace, the opulent palace-turned-museum that was home to the Ottoman emperors between the 15th and 19th centuries. Hear anecdotes about the sultans and their entourages, and wonder at the riches of its courts and pavilions, including the jewel-stuffed treasury and priceless displays of Oriental porcelain.
- Visit Hagia Sophia, built as a basilica in the 6th century before the Ottomans turned it into a mosque in the 15th century. Behold the dome and stunning Byzantine mosaics of this architectural gem as your Istanbul guide recounts its turbulent history.
- Explore the Grand Bazaar, with over 3,000 shops selling everything from carpets and jewellery to ceramics and leather goods, and continue to the Spice Bazaar, filled with the incredible aromas of almost every spice imaginable, as well as dried fruits, nuts, sweets, and the ubiquitous Turkish Delight.
