explore-magazine-issue-20-europe

Mediterranean

ENJOY EXTRA TIME TO EXPLORE ISTANBUL

Impressive architecture, historic sites, dining, shopping, nightlife, and exotic atmosphere make Istanbul one of Turkey’s best places to visit. Among the top places to tour is the Hagia Sophia, a magnificent ancient Byzantine church deemed one of the world’s finest architectural works. Sometimes regarded as the Eighth Wonder of the World, Hagia Sophia is the fourth-largest church after St. Paul’s in London, St. Peter’s in Rome and Milan’s Duomo. There is also the iconic 14th-century Grand Bazaar to explore. Featuring more than 4,000 stalls, you’ll find ceramics of all shapes and sizes painted with the country’s tulip emblem, as well as leather, brass and copper goods. Eager rug merchants offer cups of Turkish coffee or mint or apple tea while they present numerous versions of their local colorful kilim rugs to purchase. And the delectable Spice Bazaar is a culinary wonder with its appealing aromas and infinite choices of seasonings and spices to buy. Several voyages feature extended calls, allowing you to experience more than traditional attractions, including lesser-known sites like the Chora Museum, the Hippodrome, and the Underground Cisterns. These are a few more examples of how to enjoy your extra time in Istanbul:

DINNER AT MEZE BY LEMON TREE | Meze by Lemon Tree is not just a restaurant, but a unique place to savor the local delicacies. Indulge in a wide array of delicious meze with specifically chosen ingredients, genuine flair and clever combinations. EXPERIENCE A TURKISH BATH | For a true cultural immersion, experience the Turkish bath at Cagaloglu Hamami. Enter its steam rooms that are lavishly arched and domed with decorative tulip tiles, which date back to Ottoman times. LIGHT SHOW AT SULTANAHMET | When the sun finally dips behind the minaret skyline, Sultanahmet Park, located between Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, illuminates with a colorful light display. TURKISH DINNER & SHOW | Immerse in an evening of traditional music and dancing over dinner. Watch a traditional Anatolian folk group play festive music and glimmering belly dancers perform. FERRY TO PRINCE’S ISLANDS | You have plenty of time to explore Prince’s Islands. Enjoy swimming, hiking, or cycling on these picturesque shores. The quietest island, Buyukada, is free from cars and dotted with charming villas.

BOTH IDYLLIC AND INTRICATE, THERE IS PLENTY TO EXPERIENCE IN ISTANBUL

FREE SHORE EXCURSIONS

DATE

NIGHTS SHIP/FROM/TO

PORTS

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MAY 7, 2025

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SEP 23, 2025

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