YOUR GUIDE TO ISTANBUL, TURKEY
WITH ITS OLD QUARTER SKYLINE OF DOMES AND MINARETS and the twinkling lights of the city’s modern half across the water, Istanbul is the magical meeting place of East and West. It also boasts a wealth of religious sites, including the spectacular Blue Mosque and the legendary Hagia Sophia, as well as a dynamic culinary scene, rich history and impressive galleries.
TOP THINGS TO SEE & DO
THE BASILICA CISTERN: This subterranean structure is the largest surviving Byzantine cistern in Istanbul. Constructed using 336 columns, many of which were salvaged from ruined temples and feature fine carvings, it was designed to service the Great Palace and surrounding buildings.
THE GRAND BAZAAR: One of the largest and oldest markets in the world, with 61 covered streets and over 4,000 shops selling jewellery, antiques, carpets, food and more.
VISIT A TURKISH BATH OR HAMMAM: Immerse yourself in a unique age-old bathing ritual at one of the city’s many opulent, historic hammams.
HAGIA SOPHIA: Originally built as a cathedral and later converted to a mosque, the magnificent structure is nearly 1,500 years old and is now a museum, housing priceless treasures, storied mosaics and colourful frescoes.
FEAST ON TURKISH FOOD: Baklava — layered pastry filled with nuts and covered in syrup. Köfte — ‘meatballs’ dipped in yoghurt. Pide — commonly known as Turkish pizza. Kumpir — a crispy baked potato with your choice of creative fillings. And, of course, delicious Turkish coffee.
EXPLORE ISTANBUL ON THESE VIKING ITINERARIES
OCEAN ANCIENT MEDITERRANEAN TREASURES — 8 Days | Istanbul to Athens or v.v.
OCEAN ANCIENT ADRIATIC TREASURES — 15 Days | Venice to Istanbul or v.v.
OCEAN MEDITERRANEAN & ADRIATIC SOJOURN — 22 Days | Athens to Barcelona or v.v.
OCEAN MEDITERRANEAN’S ICONIC SHORES — 29 Days | Barcelona to Istanbul or v.v.