Istanbul’s cruise port opens the door to the heart of a city that once served as the capital of three great empires: Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman. A classic Istanbul Old City tour offers cruise visitors the chance to walk through centuries of history, with landmarks like the magnificent Hagia Sophia, the elegant Blue Mosque, the opulent Topkapi Palace, and the vibrant Grand Bazaar all within easy reach of the port. These Istanbul shore excursions provide a seamless way to explore the city’s layered heritage, blending religion, art, and imperial power into a single unforgettable experience.