Istanbul Excursion

A Memorable Day in Istanbul

Our day in Istanbul began with a surprise. There was a large protest happening near the city center, so MSC made a last-minute change. They rerouted us by ferry to a different drop-off point to keep us away from the crowds. I really appreciated how smooth and thoughtful that adjustment was. Even though we got off the ship later than planned, we still saw all the main sights.

Lunch at Yeşil Ev

We started with lunch at Yeşil Ev, a beautiful old mansion turned into a restaurant. The atmosphere was calm and welcoming. It was the perfect place to enjoy a relaxed meal and some classic Turkish dishes before starting our sightseeing. This was a Hilton Hotel and would be a nice spot to stay in istanbul if we ever return.

The Blue Mosque

Our first stop after lunch was the Blue Mosque. It’s one of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks. Inside, the blue tilework and soft lighting created a peaceful, almost magical feeling. The mosque is unique with its six minarets and rich Ottoman architecture.

Blue Mosque

A Walk Through Sultanahmet Square

Next, we walked through Sultanahmet Square, once the Hippodrome of Constantinople. This area was the heart of public life during the Byzantine Empire. It felt surreal to walk where chariot races and royal ceremonies once took place.

Exploring Hagia Sophia

We then visited the Hagia Sophia, which was absolutely awe-inspiring. Built in the 6th century as a church, it later became a mosque, then a museum, and is now a mosque again. The vast domes, beautiful mosaics, and layers of history were breathtaking.

Shopping at the Grand Bazaar

Our final stop was the Grand Bazaar. We had time to explore one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. The stalls were packed with colorful ceramics, textiles, spices, jewelry, and more. It was busy and full of energy, but such a fun experience.

Heading Back to the Ship

After a full day of exploring, we boarded the coach for the ride back to the ship. Despite the delayed start, the day was well-organized, and we saw everything we had hoped to see. Istanbul was vibrant, historic, and unforgettable. We choose the City Sights and Shopping at the Grand Bazaar tour. There were many other excursions available, CLICK HERE for more information on all MSC Excursions in Istanbul