Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul rises from the Bosphorus, a vision of minarets and domes sparkling in the light. The capital of vanished empires, Istanbul is a true crossroad, the only city on Earth to span two continents. This meeting place of Europe and Asia, of Christian and Muslim, is one of the great adventures a traveler encounters. Browse the stalls of the world's largest bazaar, explore ancient mosques and churches, and gaze at the stunning jewels in the Topkapi Palace.

Istanbul has dominated the Straits of Bosphorus for 25 centuries. As Constantinople, capital of the Eastern Roman Empire, it was a metropolis of stunning splendor when the great cities of Europe were mere villages.

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Points of Interest

  • Hagia Sofia
  • Topkapi Palace
  • Blue Mosque
  • Grand Bazaar & Carpet Demonstration
  • Bosphorus Cruise
  • Underground Cistern
  • Topkapi Palace Harem
  • Hippodrome

More about Istanbul, Turkey Points of Interest

  • Hagia Sofia

    This magnificent model of Byzantine architecture boasts a huge dome, and an interior adorned with marble and pillars from Ephesus.

  • Topkapi Palace

    Once the treasure-filled residence of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years, this popular attraction is home to the famed Topkapi diamond, and exhibits of gold, jade and fine Oriental porcelain.

  • Blue Mosque

    One of the city's most enduring landmarks, this 17th-century mosque is renowned for its domes and minarets. Its interior is dotted with 20,000 delicate blue Iznik tiles in 33 shades.

  • Grand Bazaar & Carpet Demonstration

    The largest covered market in the world, the Grand Bazaar is an intriguing maze of 65 winding streets replete with 4,000 shops, cafes and restaurants. Prior to your visit enjoy a carpet demonstration where you can observe the different stages of the carpet making process.

  • Bosphorus Cruise

    Considered one of the most beautiful sights in the world, the Straits of Bosphorus divide Europe and Asia, and set the stage for a breathtaking motorboat cruise past Ottoman palaces and castles.

  • Underground Cistern

    Built during the reign of Justinian I, the cistern is also known as the "Underground Palace." The ceiling is supported by 336 Corinthian columns.

  • Topkapi Palace Harem

    The harem section of Topkapi Palace was carefully situated so that it could not be seen from the state apartments or the courtyards where public affairs were conducted. Construction began under Suleyman the Magnificent and continued through the time of Mahmut II. The Harem has a highly complex floor plan, consisting of several buildings and hundreds of elaborately decorated rooms.

  • Hippodrome

    The square was once the site of a Roman circus that rivaled the Colosseum. Monuments here include the Snake Column from Delphi and an obelisk from Karnak.

36 EXCURSIONS

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Treasure Hunt in Grand Bazaar: A Discovery Family Tourr

5 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 4 0 0
  • Grand Bazaar & Carpet Demonstration

The kids won't be able to resist the fun of an action-packed treasure hunt through the colorful lanes of Istanbul's centuries-old Grand Bazaar. Teams traverse the 65 colorful streets through more than 4,000 shops collecting clues in a race against time. Winners take home a surprise, but everyone has a great time.

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Shopping Opportunities, Strenuous Activity

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$19.95

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Suleymaniye Mosque, Islamic Arts Museum & Grand Bazaar

4.5 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 3 6 0
  • Hagia Sofia
  • Blue Mosque
  • Grand Bazaar & Carpet Demonstration

What better way to "study" the history of Turkey than through its art and architecture. A number of Istanbul's finest mosques were designed by the great Ottoman architect Sinan. Visit one of his masterpieces the Suleymaniye Mosque and then visit the Islamic Arts Museum, home to 40,000 objects including magnificent rugs and manuscripts. Cap your day off with shopping at the colorful Grand Bazaar.

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Shopping Opportunities, Moderate Activity

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$39.00

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Easy Istanbul (Wheelchair Accessible)

5 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 2 9 1
  • Blue Mosque

View Istanbul's rich collection of modern and historical offerings during a narrated tour. Travel between continents, enjoy numerous photo stops as you drive into the Old City, marvel at Blue Mosque and Church of the Holy Wisdom, and shop for souvenirs at the Spice Bazaar.

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Wheelchair Accessible, Shopping Opportunities, Easy Activity

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$49.00

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Easy Istanbul

5 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 2 9 0
  • Blue Mosque

View Istanbul's rich collection of modern and historical offerings during a narrated tour. Travel between continents, enjoy numerous photo stops as you drive into the Old City, marvel at Blue Mosque and Church of the Holy Wisdom, and shop for souvenirs at the Spice Bazaar.

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Shopping Opportunities, Easy Activity

From

$49.00

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Hippodrome, Byzantine Cistern & St. Sophia

6 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 2 2 0
  • Blue Mosque
  • Hagia Sofia
  • Grand Bazaar & Carpet Demonstration
  • Underground Cistern
  • Hippodrome

Step back in time to an era of opulence and dazzling color as you visit the Hippodrome and Underground Cistern. Visit Hagia Sophia, considered the greatest work of Byzantine architecture. Head over to Grand Bazaar for shopping and a carpet demonstration round out this historic walking tour.

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Shopping Opportunities, Strenuous Activity

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$59.00

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St. Sophia, Blue Mosque & Time On Your Own

7.5 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 1 8 0
  • Hippodrome
  • Hagia Sofia
  • Blue Mosque
  • Grand Bazaar & Carpet Demonstration

Take a tour of historic Istanbul then shop 'til you drop. Walk the historic streets of Istanbul with your guide and visit the Blue Mosque. Stroll to Hagia Sophia, considered the greatest work of Byzantine architecture. Then spend three hours on your own at the Grand Bazaar, the largest market in the world

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$59.00

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Topkapi Palace, Harem & Grand Bazaar

6 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 2 0 5
  • Hagia Sofia
  • Blue Mosque
  • Topkapi Palace
  • Grand Bazaar & Carpet Demonstration
  • Topkapi Palace Harem

Get a revealing look at the life and times of Ottoman sultans. A visit to Topkapi Palace Museum, Treasury and Harem unveils a collection of art and artifacts and the 7th largest diamond in the world. You'll see the residence of the Sultan, then witness a carpet-weaving demonstration around the Grand Bazaar.

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Shopping Opportunities, Strenuous Activity

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$59.00

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St. Sophia, Blue Mosque & Grand Bazaar

6 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 2 0 0
  • Hippodrome
  • Hagia Sofia
  • Blue Mosque
  • Grand Bazaar & Carpet Demonstration

Get a snapshot view of Istanbul in this walking tour. Visit the Blue Mosque, renowned for shimming domes, minarets and blue Iznik tiles, and Hagia Sophia, considered the greatest work of Byzantine architecture. Round out your tour with a visit to the Grand Bazaar, the largest market in the world.

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Shopping Opportunities, Strenuous Activity

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$69.00

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Santa Sofía, Mezquita Azul Y Gran Bazar (Con Guía En Español)

6 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 2 0 2
  • Hippodrome
  • Hagia Sofia
  • Blue Mosque
  • Grand Bazaar & Carpet Demonstration

Get a snapshot view of Istanbul in this walking tour. Visit the Blue Mosque, renowned for shimming domes, minarets and blue Iznik tiles, and Hagia Sophia, considered the greatest work of Byzantine architecture. Round out your tour with a visit to the Grand Bazaar, the largest market in the world.

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Shopping Opportunities, Strenuous Activity

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$69.00

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Breakfast Cruise, Blue Mosque & Grand Bazaar: A Discovery Exclusive

6 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 2 4 0
  • Hagia Sofia
  • Hippodrome
  • Blue Mosque
  • Grand Bazaar & Carpet Demonstration
  • Bosphorus Cruise

Explore Istanbul by land and by sea, as you set off for a panoramic cruise along the Bosphorus with breakfast. Then visit the Blue Mosque, renowned for shimming domes, minarets and blue Iznik tiles. Round out your tour with a visit to the Grand Bazaar, the largest market in the world.

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Shopping Opportunities, Strenuous Activity, Includes meal

From

$69.00

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Off the Beaten Path - Hidden Secrets of the Old City

5.5 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 4 1 5
  • Grand Bazaar & Carpet Demonstration

Wander through Istanbul's historic Sogukcesme Street, sandwiched between Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia, and admire the gracious 19th century Ottoman architecture. Visit the Great Palace Mosaic Museum for stunning remnants from the Blue Mosque. Admire Turkish crafts displayed at the Caferaga Medresesi Theological School and shop at the Grand Bazaar.

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Shopping Opportunities, Moderate Activity

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$79.95

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Late Riser - Ottoman Istanbul

5.5 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 4 2 0
  • Blue Mosque
  • Grand Bazaar & Carpet Demonstration

Perfect for those who like to sleep in or linger over breakfast, you'll still have plenty of time to see the highlights of Istanbul's Ottoman era and learn more about its exquisite architecture and art on this captivating half-day tour. Visit the Rüstem Pasha Mosque, the Grand Bazaar and the Islamic Arts Museum.

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$79.95

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Off the Beaten Path - Princess Islands

7 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 4 1 0

A Turkish island lost in time, beautiful Buyukada awaits your discovery. Travel by boat to the largest of the Princes' Islands and acquaint yourself with this little gem by Electric Car. Then stroll along flower-lined streets, view the 300-year-old Hagia Yorgi Church and lunch independently.

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Shopping Opportunities, Moderate Activity

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$99.95

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A Day in Nature

6 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 3 0 5

Escape the hustle and bustle of Istanbul and take in the fresh air and lovely scenery of Belgrade Forest, a botanical oasis dating back to the 16th century. Enjoy a guided walk through the expansive grounds, a haven for birds and wildlife. Then, tuck into a freshly prepared barbeque lunch.

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Strenuous Activity, Includes meal

From

$119.95

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Best of Istanbul (2023 ONLY)

8 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 1 1 1
  • Underground Cistern

Embark on a walking tour that showcases Istanbul's rich architectural and cultural heritage with visits to the Topkapi Palace Museum, the Basilica Cistern, and the Church of the Holy Wisdom. Indulge in a traditional Turkish lunch and shop for souvenirs in the famed Grand Bazaar.

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Moderate Activity, Includes meal

From

$139.95

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Best of Istanbul

8.5 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 1 0 0
  • Hippodrome
  • Hagia Sofia
  • Topkapi Palace
  • Blue Mosque
  • Grand Bazaar & Carpet Demonstration
  • Topkapi Palace Harem

The sights, sounds and color of Istanbul resound in this walking tour of Istanbul. Visit the Blue Mosque and the Topkapi Palace Museum, an impressive complex hugging the Bosphorus. Witness the harem section and the world's seventh-largest diamond. Step into the Grand Bazaar, and Hagia Sophia, considered the greatest work of Byzantine architecture.

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Shopping Opportunities, Strenuous Activity, Includes meal

From

$139.95

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Lo Mejor De Estambul (Guiado En Español)

8.5 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 1 0 2
  • Hippodrome
  • Hagia Sofia
  • Topkapi Palace
  • Blue Mosque
  • Grand Bazaar & Carpet Demonstration
  • Topkapi Palace Harem

The sights, sounds and color of Istanbul resound in this walking tour of Istanbul. Visit the Blue Mosque and the Topkapi Palace Museum, an impressive complex hugging the Bosphorus. Witness the harem section and the world's seventh-largest diamond. Step into the Grand Bazaar, and Hagia Sophia, considered the greatest work of Byzantine architecture.

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Shopping Opportunities, Strenuous Activity, Includes meal

From

$139.95

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Istanbul Highlights & Bosphorus Cruise: A Discovery Exclusive (2023 ONLY)

8 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 1 0 9
  • Underground Cistern

Discover Istanbul with a Discovery tour designed exclusively for Princess guests. This get-acquainted adventure shows off the city's most popular attractions like the Church of Holy Wisdom and the Underground Palace. A cruise on the Strait of Bosphorus includes lunch and there's time for shopping at the Spice Bazaar.

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Moderate Activity, Includes meal

From

$139.95

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Best of Istanbul for Families - Discovery Family Istanbul (2023 ONLY)

8 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 6 1 1
  • Topkapi Palace
  • Underground Cistern

Families who enjoy active adventures will thrill to this all-day excursion immersed in Istanbul's beauty and history. Visit Topkapi Palace Museum, the Basilica Cistern, and the Church of the Holy Wisdom. Indulge in a traditional Turkish lunch and shop for souvenirs in the famed Grand Bazaar.

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Moderate Activity, Includes meal

From

$139.95

Average Guest Rating

Best of Istanbul (Guided in German)

8.5 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 1 0 3
  • Hippodrome
  • Hagia Sofia
  • Topkapi Palace
  • Blue Mosque
  • Grand Bazaar & Carpet Demonstration
  • Topkapi Palace Harem

The sights, sounds and color of Istanbul resound in this walking tour of Istanbul. Visit the Blue Mosque and the Topkapi Palace Museum, an impressive complex hugging the Bosphorus. Witness the harem section and the world's seventh-largest diamond. Step into the Grand Bazaar, and Hagia Sophia, considered the greatest work of Byzantine architecture.

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Shopping Opportunities, Strenuous Activity, Includes meal

From

$139.95

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Best of Istanbul (Guided in Spanish - 2023 ONLY)

8 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 1 1 2
  • Topkapi Palace
  • Underground Cistern

Embark on a walking tour that showcases Istanbul's rich architectural and cultural heritage with visits to the Topkapi Palace Museum, the Basilica Cistern, and the Church of the Holy Wisdom. Indulge in a traditional Turkish lunch and shop for souvenirs in the famed Grand Bazaar.

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Moderate Activity, Includes meal

From

$139.95

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Best of Istanbul for Families - Discovery Family Istanbul

8.5 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 6 0 0
  • Hippodrome
  • Hagia Sofia
  • Topkapi Palace
  • Blue Mosque
  • Grand Bazaar & Carpet Demonstration
  • Topkapi Palace Harem

The sights, sounds and color of Istanbul resound in this walking tour of Istanbul. Visit the Blue Mosque and the Topkapi Palace Museum, an impressive complex hugging the Bosphorus. Witness the harem section and the world's seventh-largest diamond. Step into the Grand Bazaar, and Hagia Sophia, considered the greatest work of Byzantine architecture.

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Shopping Opportunities, Strenuous Activity, Includes meal

From

$139.95

Average Guest Rating

Istanbul Highlights & Bosphorus Cruise: A Discovery Exclusive

8.5 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 1 1 0
  • Hippodrome
  • Hagia Sofia
  • Topkapi Palace
  • Blue Mosque
  • Grand Bazaar & Carpet Demonstration
  • Bosphorus Cruise

Explore Istanbul by land and by sea, as you set off by motorcoach to the Byzantine Hippodrome, Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. After a panoramic cruise along the Bosphorus with lunch, your motorcoach brings you to the Grand Bazaar for shopping and (time permitting) a carpet demonstration. Cap your day off with a visit to Topkapi Palace Museum.

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Shopping Opportunities, Moderate Activity, Includes meal

From

$139.95

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Best of Istanbul (Guided in French)

8.5 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 1 0 4
  • Hippodrome
  • Hagia Sofia
  • Topkapi Palace
  • Blue Mosque
  • Grand Bazaar & Carpet Demonstration
  • Topkapi Palace Harem

The sights, sounds and color of Istanbul resound in this walking tour of Istanbul. Visit the Blue Mosque and the Topkapi Palace Museum, an impressive complex hugging the Bosphorus. Witness the harem section and the world's seventh-largest diamond. Step into the Grand Bazaar, and Hagia Sophia, considered the greatest work of Byzantine architecture.

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Shopping Opportunities, Strenuous Activity, Includes meal

From

$139.95

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St. Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque & Cistern

8.5 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 1 0 5
  • Hippodrome
  • Hagia Sofia
  • Topkapi Palace
  • Blue Mosque
  • Grand Bazaar & Carpet Demonstration
  • Underground Cistern

Step back in time to an era of opulence and dazzling color as you visit the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace Museum. After a traditional Turkish lunch, you'll visit Hagia Sophia, considered the greatest work of Byzantine architecture. The Underground Cistern and the Grand Bazaar as well as ( time permitting), a carpet demonstration round out this historic walking tour.

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Shopping Opportunities, Strenuous Activity, Includes meal

From

$149.95

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Best of Istanbul for Small Groups

8.5 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 9 9 9
  • Hippodrome
  • Hagia Sofia
  • Topkapi Palace
  • Blue Mosque
  • Grand Bazaar & Carpet Demonstration
  • Topkapi Palace Harem

The sights, sounds and color of Istanbul resound in this walking tour of Istanbul. Visit the Blue Mosque and the Topkapi Palace Museum, an impressive complex hugging the Bosphorus. Witness the harem section and the world's seventh-largest diamond. Step into the Grand Bazaar, and Hagia Sophia, considered the greatest work of Byzantine architecture.

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Shopping Opportunities, Strenuous Activity, Includes meal

From

$159.95

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Best of Istanbul for Small Groups (2023 ONLY)

8 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 9 8 9
  • Topkapi Palace
  • Underground Cistern

Join a small group on a walking tour that showcases Istanbul's rich architectural and cultural heritage with visits to the Topkapi Palace Museum, the Basilica Cistern, and the Church of the Holy Wisdom. Indulge in a traditional Turkish lunch and shop for souvenirs in the famed Grand Bazaar.

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Moderate Activity, Includes meal

From

$159.95

Average Guest Rating

Ultimate Istanbul - A Discovery Exclusive

8.5 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 1 5 0
  • Hippodrome
  • Hagia Sofia
  • Topkapi Palace
  • Blue Mosque
  • Grand Bazaar & Carpet Demonstration
  • Topkapi Palace Harem

Expect nothing less than the best on this elite tour of Istanbul. Visit the Blue Mosque and the Topkapi Palace Museum, an impressive complex with a harem and the seventh-largest diamond in the world. Lunch awaits at the Karakol Restaurant, then a visit to the St. Irene Church, as does a shopping trip to the Grand Bazaar and a visit to Hagia Sophia.

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Shopping Opportunities, Moderate Activity, Includes meal

From

$179.95

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Turkish Food Experience

4 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 3 0 0

Savor the flavors of Istanbul and learn the heritage of Turkish cuisine on a guided, evening walking tour through the lively Taksim district. Sink your teeth into a kebab, nibble the honey-soaked baklava and toast with raki, a traditional aperitif. Visit 12 establishments in all - a lovely night out for foodies!

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Shopping Opportunities, Strenuous Activity, Includes snack

From

$199.95

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Ultimate Istanbul- A Discovery Exclusive (2023 ONLY)

8 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 1 5 3

Explore Istanbul on a Discovery Exclusive Tour that takes you inside some of the city's most iconic sites. Soak up the history of the Topkapi Palace Museum and Harem Quarter. Behold the brilliant tiles of the Rüstempasa Mosque. Bargain and banter at the Spice Bazaar. And enjoy a delicious lunch.

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Moderate Activity, Includes meal

From

$299.95

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Ultimate Essence of Istanbul - A Discovery Exclusive

8 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 1 5 2
  • Grand Bazaar & Carpet Demonstration
  • Bosphorus Cruise

This quintessential Istanbul experience, especially crafted for a small group, witnesses the magnificence of the Bosphorus Strait. Relax and replenish in a Turkish bath, visit the Grand Bazaar and delight your taste buds with specialties of Turkish cuisine on this exceptional Discovery Exclusive tour.

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Shopping Opportunities, Strenuous Activity, Includes meal

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$299.95

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