Sights
Basilica Cistern
A huge underground Byzantine water store held up by rows of lit columns, including two carved Medusa heads. Cool and atmospheric on a hot day.
Sights
Hagia Sophia
The vast sixth-century domed building, now a working mosque. Visitors take a separate route to the upper gallery to see its Byzantine mosaics; visits pause at prayer times.
From the ship
| Terminal | One way | How |
|---|---|---|
| Galataport Istanbul cruise terminal (Karaköy) | 32 min | walk |
Times are estimates. Allow extra on busy days and for tender queues.
Nearby
Sights
Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque)
A working mosque with six minarets and an interior lined with blue tiles, facing Hagia Sophia across a park. Entry is free; it closes to visitors at prayer times.
SightsClosed Tuesdays
Topkapı Palace
The Ottoman sultans' palace: courtyards, kiosks, treasury and the Harem (extra ticket), with terraces over the Bosphorus. It needs at least two hours.