Istanbul, Turkey cruises

This historic city has attracted visitors for centuries. Today, explore its fascinating blend of ancient architecture that lives within a bustling, modern metropolis.

Istanbul port guide

Home to landmarks like the striking Hagia Sophia and the colourful Grand Bazaar, Istanbul is a city in which you might like to get lost on purpose. Perhaps you’ll find an inviting café terrace where you can sip on a strong, authentic Turkish coffee and watch the world go by. Or maybe you’d rather have a busy day taking in as many attractions as possible? The options in Istanbul are almost endless.

Top landmarks and sights in Istanbul

Once one of the starting (or end) points on the famous Silk Road trading route, Istanbul – or Constantinople as it was then – is filled with ancient landmarks.

Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque

What began as a church in the year 537 has, over the years, become an icon of Istanbul. The Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque in 1453 by Sultan Mehment, during his reign over the Ottoman Empire, and is a working mosque today. Its ornate architectural style, both in and out, begs photo after photo – you may well find yourself lose an entire afternoon here. The Blue Mosque, opposite Hagia Sophia in Sultanahmet Park, is the 17^th century project of Sultan Ahmet, a young sultan who wanted to build something even more impressive that its neighbour. Both house intricate paintings and mosaic art within and are well worth a visit.

Topkapı Palace

Home to many sultans during the Ottoman Empire, construction of Topkapı Palace started in the 15^th century. Over the years it’s been repaired many times after damage from earthquakes and fires, and today serves an interesting museum. Important rooms including the Ottoman Imperial Harem are open to the public. You can explore exhibits displaying clothing, armour, weapons, and many more relics of the Ottoman period. Topkapı Palace is within the UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s collectively known as the Historic Areas of Istanbul.

Basilica Cistern

Built during the Byzantine era, in the 6th century, this subterranean cistern was commissioned by the Emperor Justinian. It’s thought to have been able to store 80,000 cubic metres of water which serviced the Great Palace (now destroyed) and nearby buildings. It was abandoned and became something of a dumping ground during the Ottoman Empire, and then renovated in the 1980s when it became a tourist attraction.

Things to do in Istanbul

When you’ve had your fill of historic landmarks, Istanbul offers plenty of other ways to spend your time, whether you’re looking for hustle and bustle or something more relaxed.

The Grand Bazaar

The world-famous Grand Bazaar started off life as a small warehouse in the mid-15^th century. Over time, stalls and Persian caravanserais (roadside inns) set up close by, and it gradually grew to become the labyrinth of over 4,000 shops and eateries that stands today. Filled with bright colours, spirited bargaining, and aromas of tea and spices, a few hours spent here is a real treat for the senses.

Take a Turkish bath

In Turkey, a bath isn’t just a bath. It’s more akin to a ceremony. Something to be savoured. In Istanbul you can partake in this traditional and authentic experience in one of many hammams. You’ll be treated to a steam, soak, and soapy body scrub, and come out feeling at once relaxed and refreshed.

Relax in Gülhane Park

Located partially within the grounds of Topkapı Palace, Gülhane Park is a great place to take time away from the buzz of the city. A section of the park was first opened to the public in 1912, and since then many renovations have been carried out. Come along to people-watch, picnic, or perhaps you’ll catch a concert – or the tulip festival in spring.

Eating and drinking near Istanbul

Throughout Istanbul you’ll find all manner of different restaurants, cafes, and food stalls where you can sample some of the region’s most delicious treats.

For something savoury, you could choose a doner kebab. Popular all over the world, doner kebabs have been enjoyed in Turkey for centuries, and today you’ll find variations served in many eateries. Choose from different meats, sliced thinly and served with pitta bread and a salad. Lahmacun is a tasty street food you can pick up on the go in Istanbul. It’s a kind of pitta-style pizza topped with minced meat, onions, tomatoes, and herbs. Filo pastry is thought to have been born during the Ottoman Empire and has long been used in sweet and savoury dishes in Turkey. One example is a Börek pastry, which can be stuffed with anything from soft cheese and spinach to meat and potatoes.

Should you have more of a sweet tooth, Istanbul serves up a wonderful array of treats. Dates, Turkish Delight, and baklava oozing with sticky honey and pistachios are all excellent choices. Washed down with a traditional Turkish tea, or a strong Turkish coffee, your normal elevenses could certainly be taken up a notch.

Shopping in Istanbul

If it’s shopping that you’re most excited about in Istanbul, you can’t go far wrong with making a beeline for the Grand Bazaar. As well as a tourist attraction in its own right, owing to the history of the place, the Grand Bazaar is home to thousands of vendors selling all sorts. Leather goods. Perfume. Spices. Carpets. Lamps. Here, you’re sure to find souvenirs for everyone at home, as well as something special for yourself. Be prepared to do some bartering though – it’s all part of the experience!

Away from the Grand Bazaar, should you be looking for luxury shopping, you’ll find high end designers in the Nişantaşı district of Istanbul. Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Christian Louboutin all have stores here.

Getting around: Istanbul transport

The cruise terminal in Istanbul is around two miles from the city centre. On a cooler day, you might want to walk over the bridge to take in the incredible view of domes and minarets, but if not, or if it’s too hot, you’ll find shuttle buses available.

Many of the main attractions of the city are located quite close together, so you might find exploring on foot is the best option for you. There are also public trams, which are simple to use and regular. Be careful if you choose to take a taxi in Istanbul, and keep in mind that some drivers are known to overcharge foreigners.

Istanbul port facilities

The cruise port in Istanbul is Galataport, which can accommodate three cruise ships at one time. The complex itself is large and revolutionary, in that much have it has been built underground – modelled on the city’s ancient subterranean cisterns. As well as basic amenities like toilets, ATMs, and a waiting area, you’ll find shops, restaurants, art galleries, and entertainment.

Top tips for Istanbul

Currency

The currency used in Istanbul, and throughout Turkey, is Turkish Lira. While most major cards are accepted in shops, cafes, and restaurants, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases such as at market stalls or street food vendors. You’ll find ATMs around the city, or you can purchase currency on board your ship.

Tipping

While it’s not mandatory to tip in Istanbul, it is common to leave around 10% of your bill to show appreciation for good service.

Weather

The winter months in Turkey are November to February, and in Istanbul you’ll find temperatures ranging between around 3° and 12° Celsius at this time. The summer occurs between June and September, when you can expect between around 18° and 30° Celsius. The cooler months often come with some rain (or even snow in December), with most rain usually falling in March.