Port of Calls

Turkey

Istanbul is one of the world's greatest cities straddling Europe and Asia at the Bosphorus Strait. Its layers of Byzantine Greek Roman and Ottoman history create an extraordinary tapestry of culture and architecture.

Istanbul Airport (IST) / Sabiha Gokcen (SAW)

Royal Caribbean; Celebrity; MSC; Princess; Holland America; Norwegian; Costa

April - October

Visit Hagia Sophia (UNESCO); explore the Blue Mosque; Grand Bazaar shopping; Topkapi Palace; Bosphorus cruise; Turkish bath (hamam) experience

20-30 min drive from cruise terminal to Sultanahmet historic district

Very safe in tourist areas; be aware of carpet shop and restaurant scams; watch for pickpockets in Grand Bazaar; check current travel advisories before travel

The Grand Bazaar has 4000+ shops - set a budget before going in! Turkish tea is offered everywhere as a sign of hospitality. Haggling is expected at the Bazaar. Bosphorus sunset cruise is magical.

Kebabs; baklava; Turkish meze; simit; fresh seafood; Turkish tea and coffee; raki (anise spirit)

Grand Bazaar for gold jewelry; carpets; ceramics; Turkish delight; leather goods

Yes

Turkish Lira / USD and EUR accepted in tourist areas