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FOOTPRINTS OF THE OTTOMANS
A half day tour at the Old City where the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires were ruled. We will proceed to Topkapi Palace (Closed on Tuesdays; replaced with a visit to the Archaeological Museum), the primary residence of the Ottoman Sultans for approximately 400 years (1465-1856) of their 624-year reign. The palace was home to as many as 4,000 people. Topkapi Palace contains large collections of porcelain, robes, weapons, shields, armor, Ottoman miniatures, Islamic calligraphic manuscripts and murals, as well as a display of Ottoman treasures and jewelry; The Harem, the imperial family quarters, was home to the sultan's mother, the concubines and wives of the sultan; and the rest of his family, including children; and their servants. Every detail of Harem life was governed by tradition, obligation and ceremony. The word harem literally means 'private'.
The tour of the harem starts with the 40-room section allocated to the mother of the sultan. The next sections are the large Turkish bath and the spacious, domed hall reserved for the sultans. There are fireplaces and fountains in all available places. The large hall with a pool filled by interesting fountains is decorated with exquisite 16th century tiles. It dates to the reign of Murat III. From the end of this hall, one enters the small library and the "fruit room" which is embellished with paintings of fruits and flowers. The two 16th century rooms seen at the end of the harem tour have beautiful stained glass windows complementing the rich wall decorations. These rooms were allocated to the crown prince.
Grand Covered Bazaar (Closed on Sundays replaced with a visit to the Spice Bazaar), the most attractive shopping center in the world with nearly 4000 shops. Then drive back to your cruise.
Included services: Transportation by a private air-conditioned chaffeur-driven vehicle, professional tour guide licensed by the Ministry of Tourism, all entrance fees mentioned in the itinerary, extra entrace charge for Harem, parking fees, petrol, pick up & drop off at pier or hotel, all taxes.
Operates: Daily, except Tuesdays
Travel Interests
- Culture
- Orientation with No Walking
Prices
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Per Person
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Tour Prices
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Min. 2 to 3 pax
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Euro: € 147.00
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USD: $ 192.00 |
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Min. 4 to 6 pax
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Euro: € 83.00
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USD: $ 109.00 |
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Min. 7 to 9 pax
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Euro: € 56.00
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USD: $ 74.00 |
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Min. 10 to 12 pax
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Euro: € 45.00
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USD: $ 59.00 |
Duration
Half Day 4 hours