Scenic Driving And Walking Tour Of The Old City

Scenic Driving And Walking Tour Of The Old City Photo #1 of 2 Photo copyright ShoreTrips.com.

Overview

A perfect introduction to Istanbul for those who just want to sit back, relax, and enjoy the sights.

After meeting up with your official Turkish guide at the pier, you will enjoy a drive through the important squares and streets of this fascinating city.

This tour includes:
• Round trip transportation from the cruise ship pier (or your hotel) in an air-conditioned vehicle
• English-speaking guide
• Drive over the Bosphorus Bridge
• Photo opportunities
Visit/see:
• Taksim Square
• Unkapi Street and Bridge
• Pera Palace Hotel
• Roman Aquaducts
• Roman Walls of Old Constantinople
• Hippodrome Square
• Blue Mosque
• Hagia Sophia
• Museum of Islamic and Turkish Arts
• Nur-u Osmaniye district
• Grand Bazaar

As you drive over the Bosphorus Bridge, you will pass through the various neighborhoods of the Asian part of Istanbul. From here, you will have the opportunity to take some great panoramic photographs of the Old City.

Now, drive back over the Bosphorus Bridge, and back into Europe. Head through Taksim Square--the Times Square of Istanbul--and drive down the famous Unkapi Street. Pass by the famous Pera Palace Hotel, where the guests of the Orient Express used to stay. As you cross over the Unkapani Bridge, you will be amazed at the Istanbul skyline, adorned with numerous domes of historical edifices.

Passing through the Roman Aquaducts, you'll arrive at the shores of Maramara Sea, where you'll view the Roman Walls of Old Constantinople. Head on to Hippodrome Square, exiting your vehicle right in-between the Blue Mosque (regarded as one of the greatest masterpieces of Islamic architecture) and Hagia Sophia (a former patriarchal basilica, later a mosque, and now a fascinating museum).

Now it is only a short walk to the Museum of Islamic and Turkish Arts, where you will have the opportunity to take pictures of both this impressive 16th century building, as well as the ancient obelisks of the Nur-u Osmaniye district, home to the Grand Bazaar. Take some free time to check out the Grand Bazaar's more than 5,000 stores before heading back to the pier.

The cost of entrance fees, meals, drinks, and/or any other extras are not included.

This program is suggested for those guests who may have difficulty walking, and for those who may want to spend more time shopping.

Days offered: 7 days a week

Departures:

• 09:00 AM, duration: 4 hours