ISTANBUL, TURKEY

Our first visit of the day will be to the Topkapi Palace, the imperial residence of the Ottoman Sultans for four centuries, following the conquest of Istanbul in 1453.

Our first visit of the day will be to the Topkapi Palace, the imperial residence of the Ottoman Sultans for four centuries, following the conquest of Istanbul in 1453. Built on the Acropolis of ancient Byzantium, this maze of buildings, gardens and parks, house a unique museum of imperial jewels, royal belongings, Islamic relics, weapons, Chinese porcelain and other artefacts of great value. We shall have approximately 3 hours to explore. Lunch will be taken at a restaurant located inside the palace grounds, which overlooks the Bosphorous. After lunch we will proceed to the Archaeological Museum. The architect Valaury constructed this building between the years of 1891 and 1908. It is one of the most important archaeological museums in the world and it was Turkey’s first museum. The collection consists of pieces from the period 2,500 BC to 500 AD. On display are Greek, Roman and Byzantine architecture and sculpture, earthenware, bronze and glassware, as well as coins and medallions. The most important object in the collection is the Sarcophagus of Alexander, dating back to the 4th Century BC. We will end our tour with a visit to the Grand Bazaar, situated just off Sultanahmet Square. This bazaar is one of the world’s most picturesque and enchanting, founded by Fatih Sultan Mehmet following the conquest of Istanbul. Within the city walls there are over 4,000 stores selling everything from slippers, antiques and gold, to spices, kitchen equipment and of course, carpet. We will have time to experience the atmosphere before heading back to our ship.

Please note that there is a moderate amount of walking involved in this tour, particularly because sections of the Topkapi Palace are located in different buildings. The ground at the Grand Bazaar may be uneven. This tour is not suitable for passengers with limited mobility. Places of interest may be visited in a different order from that described. Please note that this tour will be unable to operate if our call is on a Sunday, Monday or Tuesday.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2008 CANARIES & MEDITERRANEAN CRUISES