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32-night Magnificent Oases Voyage
OFFER ID 1516670
Barcelona: A Walk Through Barcelona and The Sagrada Familia Park Guell for Families- 6 Hours
Barcelona: A Walk Through Barcelona and The Sagrada Familia Park Guell for Families- 6 Hours
Your chauffeur and your guide will
be waiting for you at the port. They will be at disposal for 8 hours. Your chauffeur will drive you to the city center of Barcelona.
A Walk Through Barcelona
You will start your day by an exciting 2-hour walking tour of the oldest parts of Barcelona: the Barri Gothic and Born neighborhoods. You will follow your guide as he/she leads you into the small, narrow streets to discover the vibrant, trendy ambiance of Born and the historical atmosphere of the Gothic Quarter. You will see the Santa Maria Del Mar church, the Royal Palace and the world famous “Las Ramblas” avenue. The fun facts and stories
told by our guide will keep your children highly engaged. The children will each get a game booklet to keep them engaged and entertained. After this tour, you will enjoy a
lunch break. Your guide will be there to give recommendations depending on your taste.
Included:
- A Walk Through Barcelona:
- Private certified guide
- 2 hour walking tour
- Game booklet for
- each child
- 2-hour experience
The Sagrada Familia and Park Güell
In the afternoon, you will enjoy a 3-hour tour inside the two iconic Gaudi sites in Barcelona, the Sagrada Familia and the Park Güell. You will follow your guide inside the
jaw-dropping and daring church and listen to the stories about its architecture, construction and future. After 1,5 hours spent in the Sagrada Familia, you will head out to
Park Güell. There you will witness the beauty of Gaudí’s mosaics as well as enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of Barcelona. To keep the children entertained during this 3-hour tour, they will all get their own fun-filled game booklet. A perfect way to combine both educational discovery and fun!
The Sagrada Familia and
- Park Güell:
- Private certified guide
- Skip-the-line tickets to
- Sagrada Familia and
- Park Güell
- Transfer in a private
- mini van
- Game booklet for
- each child
- 3-hour experience
At the end of the tour, depending on your cruise departure time, your chauffeur will drive you back to the port.
Art and Architecture in Barcelona (8 hours)
Art and Architecture in Barcelona (8 hours)
Highlights:
An architectural delight awaits you today in Barcelona, one of the most exciting cities in Europe. Receive a warm greeting at the port by your private guide and driver and commence your full-day tour with a visit to Gaudi's masterpiece, the impressive, but unfinished Sagrada Familia. Although work started on this project in 1882, this iconic church is not expected to be complete until 2028!
Next, visit Parc Guell, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi's most colourful creations. Continue along Passeig de Gracia, to view Gaudi's Casa Batlló and Casa Mila from the outside, with its brilliant wave-like façade.
After lunch, lose yourself in the narrow streets of the true heart of the city - the medieval Gothic Quarter. Here you will visit the magnificent 13th-century Cathedral, and the Picasso Museum, where some of the painter's earliest works are housed. At the end of your tour you are transferred back to the port.
- Walk the labyrinthine alleys of the medieval Gothic Quarter to find architectural gems like the Church of Santa Maria del Mar
- Admire the Sagrada Familia and the Picasso Museum, where some of the artist's earliest works are housed.
Tour can operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 8 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Gaudi’s Barcelona (4 hours)
Highlights:
Receive a warm greeting at the port from your private guide and driver and commence your half-day tour with a visit to Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi’s masterpiece; the impressive, but unfinished Sagrada Familia. Although work started on this project in 1882, this iconic church is not expected to be completed until 2028!
Continue on to Parc Guell, a beautiful municipal garden with a superb panoramic view over the city; the focal point is a colourful sea-serpent-shaped central terrace. Visit the gatehouse where Gaudi lived during his later years which is now a museum dedicated to him. Transfer back to the port at the end of your tour.
- Visit the impressive, but still unfinished Sagrada Familia, masterpiece of the Catalan architect
- Wander through Parc Guell, the UNESCO World Heritage Site considered Gaudi's most colourful creation
Tour can operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 8 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Authentic Barcelona by Bike
Overview: Uncover the most authentic side of Barcelona riding the world's best folding bike, a Brompton. Be led by an expert bike guide and venture into a unique and exclusive experience. Connect with your local guide by sharing and listening to trivia stories about Barcelona. Embark on a ride to explore the least touristy Eixample and Gracia districts. Glimpse the Plaça d'Espanya, the Hospital de la Santa Creu, Sant Pau, and modernist estates.
Duration: 3 Hours
Barcelona Sailing Journey
Overview: Experience the thrill of sailing the Barcelona Coastline. Glimpse the Barcelona skyline from a different perspective and spot some landmarks, including Frank Gehry Golf Fish Sculpture and the Twin Towers", Torres Venecianas. Immerse yourself in the serene deep blue while seeping your glass of wine. Weather permitting, anchor and venture in a short swim.
Duration: 4 Hours
Exploring Cavas' Origin
Overview: Uncover the dedication of a biodynamic winegrowers family committed to excellence in long-aged wines. Venture on a stroll around the winery's iconic vineyards to discover the distinctive features of a unique spot in the Penedès region. Sheltered by the woods, taste a base wine paired with a light snack. Elevate your experience by savoring three long-aged sparkling wines, a limited-edition white wine, and an extra-virgin olive oil.
Duration: 4 Hours
From Market to Home with a Top Chef
From Market to Home with a Top Chef
Overview: Led by a top Chef who graduated from the prestigious Cordon Bleu School in Paris, embark on an exclusive gourmet journey at her private penthouse. Head to a 19th-century local market and thoroughly select the finest ingredients for your recipe. Dare to partake in the cooking process while you uncover some secrets of high-end cuisine. Savor the combination of flavors paired with a premium selection of Spanish Wines.
Duration: 4 Hours
Hike a World of Nature (7,5 miles)
Hike a World of Nature (7,5 miles)
Overview: Step away from the bustling Barcelona and embrace Catalonia's unique landscape with La Garrotxa and Fageda d'en jordà. Venture into an exciting 7,5 miles hike through the Natural Park of the Volcanic Zone of La Garrotxa. Engage in a circular route through La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park. Ascend to the inside of Santa Margarita volcano and discover a chapel lying on its crater. Dive into Fageda d'en Jordà, a unique beech forest that grows on the lava flow of Croscat Volcano. Finalize your trail with a stop at the Croscat Volcano grederes.
Duration: 4 Hours
Montserrat Discovery Hike (5 miles)
Montserrat Discovery Hike (5 miles)
Overview: Ancient Wonders and hidden gems await you on the famous needles of Montserrat Mountain. Venture into an exciting and intimate hike connecting you to Montserrat's outlandish and most authentic elements. Uncover the region of Agulles and the north face of Montserrat, passing between the needles, having to take some steps climbing ropes, and ending up visiting emblematic places such as Cadireta or Foradada.
Duration: 4 Hours
Montserrat from the Skies
Overview: Marvel at Montserrat Mountain's impressive scenic views. With a bird' s-eye view, witness these massive conglomerates, which form unexpectedly imposing sculptures due to their geological evolution. They all have names related to their shapes, and we find caves, chasms, and torrents in their shelter.
Flying over the Montserrat mountain, the spiritual Center of Catalonia is undoubtedly one of the most surprising and impressive experiences.
Duration: 1 Hour
Toulon - Shore excursion Aix en Provence - 8 hours -
Toulon - Shore excursion Aix en Provence - 8 hours -
Meet your private English speaking driver guide at the main exit of your ship and depart for Aix en Provence.
Aix is surrounded by countryside full of authentic Provencal houses and traditional French style gardens. The name Aix comes from the source discovered when the city was founded in 123b.c. by the Romans. Aix was the capitol of Provence in the 15th century, wealthy merchants and local dignitaries helped turn this city into the Florence of Provence as we know it today. One can find all the beauty of the noble Provence of the17th and 18th centuries that include handsome houses and private mansions of the upper class, city squares’ bursting with flowers, ancient fountains and shaded narrow streets.
Discerning shoppers might instead choose the elegant boutiques in the quartier Mazarin, richest and most exclusive quarter of what is a considerably wealthy town.
Lunch is at your leisure; your guide will suggest the best place to have lunch depending on your taste and requirements.
End of the tour at your ship
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: NO
Physical Activity Level: Light
Package Include
- Transportation: pick up/drop off at the Hotel.
- English speaking licensed driver guide with a deluxe car with AC at disposal
- Entrance fee to Cézanne workshop
- All tax and Vat
Does not include
- Lunch
- Gratuities
- Travel insurance and personal expenses
Departure dates
All day, all year - except during French Bank holidays - rate on request for those dates
Toulon - Shore Excursion - Green Provence - 8 hours
Toulon - Shore Excursion - Green Provence - 8 hours
Meet your private English speaking driver guide who will wait for you with a nominative board at the main exit of your ship and depart for a visit of the Green Provence
HIGHLIGHTS
- Enjoy a visit and wine tasting at Le Clos du Pavillon estate.
At this 7ha estate, 4ha of which are used to produce the grapes, a great respect for nature rules the estate. A place is like no other, where the tradition has remained since the 16th century. Production is not mechanized and everything is done manually from the budding to the harvest. This respect and love for wine make fruit flavored wines with its own - Enjoy lunch at Abbaye de la Celle. (To be paid on site)
A charming restaurant in the heart of in the wine country, located in the shadow of a 12th century royal Abbey, which hosted the good and the great of this world... - After lunch, enjoy a wine tasting at Chateau Margui.
A new gem in the Coteaux Varois en Provence AOC, that has produced wine for centuries, Margüi fell into oblivion in 1970. Coming back to life in year 2000, it quickly expressed its impetuous personality: 2003, Château Margüi's first vintage, turned out to be very successful. - End of the tour at your ship
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: NO
Physical Activity Level: Light
Package includes
- Transportation: pick up/drop off at the Port
- English speaking licensed driver guide with a deluxe car with AC at disposal
- 2 private wine tasting
- All tax and Vat
Does not include
- Lunch
- Gratuities
- Travel Insurance and personal expenses
Departure dates
- All day, all year - except during French Bank holidays - rate on request for those dates
Toulon Shore Excursion Marseille & Private Calanques Cruise - 8 hours
Toulon Shore Excursion Marseille & Private Calanques Cruise - 8 hours
Meet your private English speaking driver guide at the main exit of your ship and depart for Marseille including the MuCEM, a museum devoted to European and Mediterranean civilizations.
Highlights:
- Marseille
- Cassis & Corniche Road
- Private Calanque Cruise
End of the tour at your ship
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: NO
Physical Activity Level: Light
Package includes
- Transportation: pick up/drop off at the Port
- English speaking licensed driver guide with a deluxe car with AC at disposal
- 03h private cruise on the calanques on a small luxury yacht, with English speaking skipper, soft drinks and snorkeling material
- Entrance fee to Marseilles MUCEM
- All tax and Vat
Does not include
- Lunch
- Gratuities
- Travel Insurance and personal expenses
Nice: Picturesque Towns of the Cote d’Azur – 8 hours
Nice: Picturesque Towns of the Cote d’Azur – 8 hours
No visit to the stunning Cote d'Azur would be complete without a visit to Nice's wonderful Old Town and the charismatic village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence. Begin with a warm welcome from your driver-guide who will be delighted to discuss the local culture, history and lifestyle of the area. Discover the historic atmosphere of Nice's Old Town whilst taking in the aromas of its bustling market.
Continue on a scenic journey to the medieval village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence. This charming village, with its bohemian atmosphere, is a mecca for artists and here you have time for lunch at leisure (payable locally). Later this afternoon, stop at the wonderful Rosary Chapel, considered by Henri Matisse to be his finest work. After your tour you will be privately transferred back to your cruise ship.
Highlights:
- Discover the historic atmosphere of Nice's Old Town and the bohemian charm of the village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence
- Make a stop at the wonderful Rosary Chapel, considered by Henri Matisse to be his finest work
Tour Duration: 8 Hours
Tour Can Operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local driver-guide for 8 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
Exclusions:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Nice - Shore Excursion - Discovery of Saint-Paul de Vence, Haut de Cagnes & Gourdon - 8 hours
Nice - Shore Excursion - Discovery of Saint-Paul de Vence, Haut de Cagnes & Gourdon - 8 hours
Meet your private English speaking driver guide who will wait for you with a nominative board at the main exit of your ship and depart for a visit of Saint Paul de vence, Haut de Cagnes & Gourdon.
Highlights:
- Saint Paul de Vence, built on a rocky outcrop and surrounded by its ramparts built on the order of Francois 1st, St Paul is certainly one of the most beautiful villages in Provence.
- Then enjoy a visit of Haut de Cagnes, a medieval quarter full of tiny streets, stairs, little restaurants and old houses that gradually descend down and blend with the modern lower city.
- Gourdon clings to the summit of a breathtakingly steep cliff at a height of 760 m and offers an unobstructed view of the Gorges du Loup and the Mediterranean. Clustered behind an imposing castle surrounded by gardens that were designed by Le Nôtre, the old houses have been well preserved and restored in this lively village where craftspeople are a driving force.
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: NO
Physical Activity Level: Light
Package includes
- English speaking licensed driver guide with a deluxe car with AC at disposal
- All entrance fees
- All tax and Vat
Does not include
- Lunch
- Gratuities
- Travel insurance and personal expenses
Departure dates
- All day, all year - except for French Bank Holidays, contact us for those dates
Nice Shore Excursion - Discovery of Nice, Eze & Monaco - 8 hours
Nice Shore Excursion - Discovery of Nice, Eze & Monaco - 8 hours
Meet your private English speaking driver guide who will wait for you with a nominative board at the main exit of your ship and depart for a visit of Nice, Eze & Monaco.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Nice, the fifth largest city in France, acts as a magnet attracting people from all over the world, for a multitude of reasons. Elegant and simple, Nice's charm comes from its exceptional climate as well as its beauty. Even in the winter the café terraces are filled with people happily drinking and contemplating the ultra-famous Promenade des Anglais. Always in flower this wonderful walk follows along the bay, looking out onto the Baie des Anges and the beaches on one side, and on the other such luxury hotels as the Negresco.
- From Nice, take the Corniche road to Eze, a medieval village perched like an eagles nest on a narrow rocky peak overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
- Monaco, one of those magic glamorous places that have a worldwide reputation, is situated on the French Riviera between Cap d'Ail and Menton, just a few kilometers from the Italian Riviera
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: NO
Physical Activity Level: Light
Package includes
- Transportation: pick up/drop off at the Port
- English speaking licensed driver guide with a deluxe car with AC at disposal
- All entrance fees
- All tax and Vat
Does not include
- Lunch
- Gratuities
- Travel insurance and personal expenses
Departure dates
- All day, all year - except for French Bank Holidays, contact us for those dates
Nice Shore Excursion - Discovery of Grasse, Cannes & Antibes - 8 hours
Nice Shore Excursion - Discovery of Grasse, Cannes & Antibes - 8 hours
Meet your private English speaking driver guide who will wait for you with a nominative board at the main exit of your ship and depart for a visit of Grasse, Cannes & Antibes.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Grasse Rising from the hills above the Mediterranean is the city of Grasse, the perfume capital of the world, surrounded by the charming Provencal landscape and villages of the Pays de Grasse, the regional name for this breathtaking and tranquil countryside. This 17th and 18th century town is large and extremely interesting, with tiny streets that wind between the buildings, up and down ancient steps, passing through arched tunnels and sometimes opening out onto large squares.
- Cannes was nothing more than an unimportant fishing village 150 years ago. Since then it has become an elegant city known round the world and attracts an international clientele.
- Antibes is the proper name of this ancient town, but it's commonly referred to as Trompe l'Oeil wall mural at Juan Antibes - Juan-les-Pins.
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: NO
Physical Activity Level: Light
Package includes
- Transportation: pick up/drop off at the Port
- English speaking licensed driver guide with a deluxe car with AC at disposal
- All entrance fees
- All tax and Vat
Does not include
- Lunch
- Gratuities
- Travel insurance and personal expenses
Departure dates
- All day, all year - Except for French Bank Holidays, contact us for those dates
Nice - Full Day Tour - 8 hours
Nice - Full Day Tour - 8 hours
Nice Shore Excursion. This excursion will give you a wonderful glance at the beautiful city of Nice on the Riviera. You will be impressed by the colors of its market and during the afternoon you could visit Matisse Museum showing an important collection of the painter.
9:00 am: Be met at the foot of your cruise ship.
Everything is emphasized in Nice; the bright sunlight makes the colors flash. The green pines happily rub shoulders with the blue of the Mediterranean Sea and that of the sky. It is easy to see why the Côte d’Azur fascinates so many people. Many of the artists, painters, writers, sculptors and musicians who contributed to the city’s fame, have museums here, dedicated to their works.
In the morning, the Cours Saleya has daily flower and food markets. Low buildings border the length of Cours Saleya, separating it from the sea.
You will view the luxurious Belle Époque-style residences, including the fabulous Négresco palace, built on the sea front. The Négresco, whose dome can be admired from the Promenade des Anglais, is the finest example of Belle Époque architecture. Visit the Russian Church (open from Tuesdays to Sundays from 9:00 am to 12:00 and from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Closed during religious ceremonies).
Enjoy a walking tour of the old town. The old town’s soul and history are reflected in the narrow streets and alleys that curve, in an irregular fashion, among old buildings and red-tiled roofs. Give your taste buds a new experience and enjoy some socca with a glass of wine. Socca is a local specialty made from chickpea flour, and a trip to Nice would not be complete without having tasted it! Enjoy lunch at leisure in a typical restaurant in Nice. During the afternoon you could visit Matisse Museum. Situated on the hill of Cimiez, it displays an important monographic collection of works.
5.00 pm: return to your Hotel.
Tour Duration: 8 hours.
Tour can operate: Any Day
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes.
Physical Activity Level: Moderate.
Included:
Deluxe minivan that can carry up to 6 passengers
Professional English-speaking guide-driver who will chauffeur you on your sightseeing-tour and is licensed to guide and accompany you on walking tours as well as into museums and monuments.
24-hour assistance available during your stay
All taxes
Free entrance to Matisse Museum
(Matisse Museum is open every day except on Tuesdays from 10:00 to 6:00 pm)
Not Included:
Tips
Lunch or dinner
Nice & Cannes - Full Day Tour - 8 hours
Nice & Cannes - Full Day Tour - 8 hours
Nice and Cannes Shore Excursion. This excursion is perfect for those who wish to discover the chic French Riviera: in Nice, you will be impressed by the colors of its market and during the afternoon pursue this excursion with the beautiful city of Cannes, famous for hosting every year the Film Festival.
9:00 am: Be met at the foot of your cruise ship.
Drive to Nice. Everything is emphasized in Nice; the bright sunlight makes the colors flash. The green pines happily rub shoulders with the blue of the Mediterranean Sea and that of the sky. It is easy to see why the Côte d’Azur fascinates so many people. Many of the artists, painters, writers, sculptors and musicians who contributed to the city’s fame, have museums here, dedicated to their works. You will view the luxurious Belle Époque-style residences, including the fabulous Négresco palace, built on the sea front. The Négresco, whose dome can be admired from the Promenade des Anglais, is the finest example of Belle Époque architecture. Visit the Russian Church (not available on Sunday mornings). Enjoy a walking tour of the old town. Enjoy lunch at leisure in a typical restaurant.
During the afternoon, drive to Cannes. Your guide will escort you to visit the city main points of interest:
Old town— The usual narrow winding streets filled with restaurants and souvenir shops. Covered Market (Marché Forville)— For a spectacular eating and viewing food experience, no other market in Cannes beats this for scale and variety.
Palais des Festivals— Down La Croisette is the famous Palais des Festivals, where stars of the screen gather and watch films screened during the festival. Irresistible not to pose for a photograph on the 22 steps leading up to the entrance.
Port— Admire the yachts of the rich and possibly famous - though true mega-yachts will be found at the International Yacht Club down the coast in Antibes.
La Croisette— Cannes catwalk beside the sea, it is the center of the city's tourist activity and known for its luxury hotels and boutique shops.
5.00 pm: return to your Hotel.
Tour Duration: 8 hours.
Tour can operate: Any Day
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes.
Physical Activity Level: Moderate.
Included:
Deluxe minivan that can carry up to 6 passengers
Professional English-speaking guide-driver who will chauffeur you on your sightseeing-tour and is licensed to guide and accompany you on walking tours as well as into museums and monuments.
24-hour assistance available during your stay
All taxes
Not Included:
Tips
Lunch or dinner
Nice, Villefranche & St Jean Cap Ferrat - Half Day Tour - 4 hours
Nice, Villefranche & St Jean Cap Ferrat - Half Day Tour - 4 hours
Nice, Villefranche and St Jean Cap Ferrat Shore Excursion. You will be impressed by Nice’s lights and colors. In Villefranche you will have the opportunity to see the Chapelle Saint-Pierre which was restored by Jean Cocteau. Then, visit St. Jean Cap Ferrat, an exceptional site on the Mediterranean coast.
9:00 am or 2:00 pm: Be met at the foot of your cruise ship or your hotel.
Everything is emphasized in Nice. In this natural, rocky setting, the sun highlights the yellow shades of flowers and the ochre-colored houses. It is easy to see why the Côte d’Azur fascinates so many people. Many of the artists, painters, writers, sculptors and musicians who contributed to the city’s fame, have museums here dedicated to their works. You will view the luxurious Belle Époque-style residences, including the fabulous Négresco palace that is built on the sea front. The Négresco, whose dome can be admired from the Promenade des Anglais, is the finest example of Belle Époque architecture. In the morning, the Cours Saleya has daily flower and food markets. There are scores of stands, and you will find everything from professional merchants with their well-displayed wares to farmers that offer their fresh produce and live fowl on folding tables. Low buildings border the length of Cours Saleya, separating it from the sea.
Continue on to Villefranche and visit the Chapel Saint Pierre. This old "Norman" style chapel, devoted to St-Pierre, the patron saint of fishermen, was completely restored and decorated by Jean Cocteau. The artist wanted to decorate the chapel and make it into a place of worship, dedicated to the fishermen from Villefranche, Beaulieu and St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Jean Cocteau wanted his artwork to evoke certain episodes in the Saint's life in a way that would be comprehensible to all.
Time permitting, continue your trip and drive towards St. Jean Cap Ferrat, an exceptional site on the Mediterranean coast. Its tranquility and warm climate make it a well-known vacation spot.
1:00 pm or 6:00 pm: Return to your ship or to your hotel.
Tour Duration: 4 hours.
Tour can operate: Any Day
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes.
Physical Activity Level: Moderate.
Included:
Deluxe minivan that can carry up to 6 passengers
Professional English-speaking guide-driver who will chauffeur you on your sightseeing-tour and is licensed to guide and accompany you on walking tours as well as into museums and monuments.
24-hour assistance available during your stay
All taxes
Not Included:
Tips
Lunch or dinner
Civitavecchia: Imperial Rome & The Vatican City - 8 hours
Civitavecchia: Imperial Rome & The Vatican City - 8 hours
Your tour includes express entry to the Vatican Museums, past the regular lines. The Vatican requires visitors to cover upper arms and legs to below the knee.
Highlights:
- Tour some of Rome's most iconic sites including the Colosseum and the Roman Forum
- Explore the impressive museum collections in the Vatican City and the breath-taking masterpiece that is Michelangelo's frescoed ceiling in the Sistine Chapel
- Spend time in the Basilica of St. Paul, the largest church in the world
Tour can Operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
- An expert English-speaking guide in Rome (6 hours)
- Entrance fees to Colosseum, Imperial Forum and Vatican Museums
- All taxes
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Civitavecchia: Rome for Repeat Visitors - 8 hours
Civitavecchia: Rome for Repeat Visitors - 8 hours
Highlights:
- Visit the church of San Clemente and discover its fascinating history
- Explore the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, a majestic royal residence of one of Rome’s most illustrious families, which houses a vast private art collection
Tour can Operate: Morning/ Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
- An expert English-speaking guide in Rome (6 hours)
- Entrance fees to San Clemente and Doria Pamphilij
- All taxes
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Civitavecchia: Gastronomic Rome and Time at Leisure - 8 hours
Civitavecchia: Gastronomic Rome and Time at Leisure - 8 hours
Highlights:
- Uncover Rome's bohemian quarter, along with tastings of Italy's best loved delicacies
- Car and driver at your disposal to discover Rome
Tour can Operate: Morning/ Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Low
Inclusions:
- Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
- An expert local guide (3 hours)
- Entrance fees
- All taxes
- Food and wine tastings
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Civitavecchia: Museums of Rome - Capitoline and Borghese - 8 hours
Civitavecchia: Museums of Rome - Capitoline and Borghese - 8 hours
Continue up along the Via Veneto to the elegant Villa Borghese, accompanied by your local expert guide and private vehicle. Surrounded by a leafy parkland, the villa was originally designed as a palace of pleasure and entertainment to house Cardinal Scipione Borghese’s incredible collection of antiquities, paintings and custom pieces. Today the collections of sculpture and paintings are among the most important in Italy. Admire the stunning Caravaggio canvases, Titian's enigmatic ‘Sacred and Profane Love’ and the striking sculptures by Bernini and Canova during this fabulous visit. Return to Civitavecchia from here.
Highlights:
- Travel out to Capitoline Hill and visit one of the oldest museum complexes in the world
- Visit Villa Borghese, home to a collection of sculptures and paintings that are among the most important in Italy
Tour can Operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
- An expert English-speaking guide in Rome (6 hours)
- Entrance fees to the Capitoline Museums and Villa Borghese
- All taxes
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Rome and the Vatican City: 8-9 hours
Rome and the Vatican City: 8-9 hours
Highlights:
- Great way to see major sites of Rome in a day
- Major sites covered such as the Coliseum, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps and the Vatican city
- Reservations for the Vatican museum - no waiting
Tour duration: 8 to 9 hours
Inclusions:
- Deluxe car or van and private English speaking guide for the day
- Entrance tickets
- Clients are picked up and dropped off at the Port
- Meals not included
- Gratuities
- Items of personal nature
Naples and Pompeii - 8 hours
- Introduction to the history of Naples and Ancient city of Pompeii
- Free time for shopping in Napes
- Lunch to be reserved at original Naples pizzeria
Tour duration: 8 hours
Included:
- Private deluxe sedan or van for the day
- English speaking guide for Naples and Pompeii
- Clients are picked up and dropped off at the Port
Naples: Food Tour of Naples - 4 hours
Naples: Food Tour of Naples - 4 hours
Along with your expert guide, head into the heart of the historic centre of Naples and explore one of Naples’ best food markets. Your guide will lead you through the market stalls and shops, where you can sample some of the delicious local specialties. Continue along the alleys of the historic city centre to discover the most picturesque corners of Naples. Sites include the Greek ruins of Bellini square, the street of music (San Biagio dei Librai), San Gregorio Armeno street (famous for shops selling nativity scenes), Decumani and old churches decorated in Rococo style.
Stop for a wine tasting in one of the most famous wine shops in the city before the highlight of your tour: lunch in one of the world’s oldest pizzerias! Naples is the birthplace of the pizza. The Naples pizza margherita features a soft yet satisfyingly chewy base, all puffed up and charred at the edges, the merest smear of tomato sauce, the odd dot of mozzarella and a few basil leaves. Not to be missed is the pizza fritta - the original pizza and unique to Naples - a deep fried pizza filled with ricotta cheese. Heaven on a plate!
Highlights:
- Sample some delicious specialities at one of Naples' best food markets
- Visit one of the world's oldest pizzerias for lunch
Tour can Operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Low
Inclusions:
• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert local guide (4 hours)
• Entrance fees
• All taxes
• Wine tasting and pizza
Exclusions:
• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities
Naples: The City of Naples - 8 hours
Naples: The City of Naples - 8 hours
Naples' historic city centre is the largest in Europe, covering 4,200 acres and enclosing 27 centuries of history. One of the oldest continuously-inhabited cities in the world with Bronze Age Greek settlements dating back to the second millennium BC, the area was re-founded as Neápolis (‘new city’) in the sixth century BC, becoming a lynchpin of Magna Graecia and playing a key role in the merging of Greek culture into Roman society.
Explore Naples today with your expert guide. Highlights include the Spaccanapoli district, the magnificent Duomo cathedral, the Cappella Sansevero with its virtuosic sculptural masterpiece the Cristo Velato, as well as lesser-known gems such as the San Giovanni a Carbonara. Today’s tour encompasses artistic-historic treasures and plenty of local colour. Along the way, enjoy a bite of Naples’ famous street food ‘frittura’, a sinfully delicious mix of deep fried aubergines (eggplant), zucchini, mozzarella, arancini (rice croquettes), cauliflower, or potato croquettes.
Continue your sightseeing tour in the historic centre of Naples. Visit the Castel Nuovo, the imposing medieval structure built by the Angevins to defend the city. You may also wish to visit the adjoining Palazzo Reale (The Royal Palace Museum and Royal apartments), built in the 17th century. The magnificently decorated halls and rooms contain the original Bourbon furnishings, paintings, statues and porcelain. Enjoy a panoramic drive to reach the magnificent Carthusian Monastery, the Certosa di San Martino situated on Vomero Hill, where you may visit the luxuriously decorated Baroque Style church.
Highlights:
- Try Naples' famous street food as your guide shows you the historic sights of Italy
- Visit the medieval Castel Nuovo, whose magnificently decorated rooms contain original Bourbon furnishings, paintings and statues
Tour can Operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Low
Inclusions:
• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert local guide (8 hours)
• Entrance fees
• All taxes
Exclusions:
• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities
Naples: Historic Pompeii & Vesuvius - 9 hours
Naples: Historic Pompeii & Vesuvius - 9 hours
Travel outside Naples today for an excursion to Pompeii. Upon arrival at Pompeii, enjoy a walking tour of this once opulent town. The extensive and varied ruins of Pompeii now provide us with a rich history of life at the time of the Roman Empire. Destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 BC, this dugout treasure represents an amazing day trip for children and adults alike. On view are temples, forums, amphitheatres, a brothel and the casts of those killed by the falling ash and pumice stone.
Mount Vesuvius – 1281 meters high – was brought into volcanological history after the eruption of 79 BC, when it destroyed the towns and thousands of residents of Pompeii, Stabiae, and Herculaneum. Climb till the summit of the ‘mount’ this afternoon with your guide and admire the splendid views across the Bay of Naples. Lose yourself admiring its slopes, once covered with vineyards and woods that nowadays provide a spectacular backdrop for the bustling town below.
Highlights:
- The ruins of Pompeii provide an unparalleled window into life during the Roman Empire
- Climb to the summit of Mount Vesuvius to admire views across the Bay of Naples
Tour can Operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Low
Inclusions:
• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert local guide (8 hours)
• Entrance fees
• All taxes
Exclusions:
• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities
No information currently available.
Chania Walking Tour (Chania, Crete) - 3 hours
Chania Walking Tour (Chania, Crete) - 3 hours
Highlights/Description:
- Archaeological Museum
- Venetian fortifications
- The Arsenals
- The 1860 Greek Orthodox Cathedral
- The 1879 Roman Catholic Cathedral
- The Etz Hayyim Synagogue
- The Turkish Quarters
Cathedral, the 1879 Roman Catholic cathedral, the Etz Hayyim Synagogue, and the Turkish quarters behind the inner harbour. The tour will also bring out plenty of hidden spots off the beaten track, which reflect the eclectic mix of influences that has given Chania its very unique atmosphere.
A walk through time, the tour promises to help you gain an understanding of how the city's multilayered history has unfolded. While it has been well researched and planned, it is designed to be informal and "loosely" organised to allow for flexibilities that can add to your pleasure
Tour Duration: 3 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Licensed, English-speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Applicable taxes
- Transfers to/from port of Chania
- Meals, unless otherwise noted
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
Heaven and Crete (Chania, Crete) - 5 hours
Heaven and Crete (Chania, Crete) - 5 hours
Highlights/Description:
- Tour of the botanical park
- Cretan delicacies and drinks tasting
- Meze style lunch
- Tour around scenic areas and villages of the Cretan mountains
- Visit to a traditional winery and its vineyards
- Information about the unique viticulture and the indigenous grape varietals
- A wine-tasting session with 5 different types and styles of wines
- Info booklet and Wine Certificate
Tour Duration: 5 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Licensed, English-speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Applicable taxes
- Transfers to/from port of Chania
- Meals, unless otherwise noted
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
Wine and Olive Trails of Crete - 4 hours
Wine and Olive Trails of Crete - 4 hours
Highlights/Description:
- Visit to the oldest olive tree in the world
- Visit to a traditional winery and its vineyard
- Information about the unique viticulture and the indigenous grape varietals
- A wine-tasting session with 5 different types and styles of wines
- Info booklet and Wine Certificate
- Visit to an organic olive oil estate and extra virgin olive oil tasting
- Picnic with traditional Cretan delicacies and drinks
Tour Duration: 4-5 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Licensed, English-speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Applicable taxes
- Transfers to/from port of Chania
- Meals, unless otherwise noted
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
Santorini Island Tour - Half Day Tour approx 4 hours
Santorini Island Tour - Half Day Tour approx 4 hours
You will be met by your English-speaking guide upon disembarkation from the ship, at the bottom of the cable car at the Old Port of Fira. Our lovely tour starts with a scenic drive through the plains of Santorini to picturesque Oia, the crowning glory of peace and tranquility.
Built on the northern part of the caldera rim, it is here where many artists have been inspired due to its magnificent location with its most superb views of the caldera, the rest of the island and the Aegean Sea.. We then stop at one of the famous wineries to enjoy a wine tasting tour of the fine wines produced on the island. Our final stop is Fira, the islands capital town.
The island used to be circular, but a massive volcanic explosion around 3,500 years ago blew out the centre of the island. (Many people attribute the decline of Minoan civilization on Crete to this cataclysmic eruption. High cliffs jutting into the sea are all that's left of the crater rim.
The surrounding islands are the remains of the sides of the crater, and the sea has filled in the gaps, forming a beautiful bay. Sunsets on the island are particularly striking; all the restaurants and bars in Fira face west over the sunken volcano and the Aegean Sea.
Santorini's ancient Akrotiri excavation & Oia Tour approx 4 hours
Santorini's ancient Akrotiri excavation & Oia Tour approx 4 hours
Begin with a scenic drive through the plains of Santorini to the picturesque village of Oia, the crowning glory of tranquillity, boasting the most superb views of the caldera. Stroll around the narrow streets and explore its quaint boutiques of local art, paintings and semi-precious jewellery.
Continue with a visit to Akrotiri and marvel at the “Minoan" excavations that have revealed complexes of multi-level buildings, streets and squares, with remains of walls standing as high as 8 meters, all entombed in the solidified ash of the famous eruption of Thera.
Our final stop is to Fira, the capital, perched on the edge of an impressive cliff 260m high, where you will have free time to explore on your own. Many of its beautiful buildings blue domed churches and sun-bathed veranda were constructed during the Venetian invasion and offer stunning views over the submerged volcano
Santorini cooking and wine tasting class approx. 4 hours
Santorini cooking and wine tasting class approx. 4 hours
Today you will be closer to the genuine tastes of Santorini through a farm to table experience. You will be offered fresh vegetables and herbs as well as other precious ingredients from local farmers, so as to cook them under the guidance of an experienced chef. This is an interactive course, where each participant is offered a glass of wine from Artemis Karamolegos Winery. Afterwards, you will enjoy the fruits of your labour at the picturesque veranda of the restaurants main area while enjoying 2 more wines while the presentation of the wines is given from experienced sommeliers. Upon completion of the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel/ship.
Megalochori village & the lost Atlantis Museum approx. 4 hours
Megalochori village & the lost Atlantis Museum approx. 4 hours
Our tour begins with a visit at Megalochori village and you will walk through the traditional vineyards, the lava-stoned streets, the renovated and abandoned houses after the earthquake of 1956, and the colorful houses. Then we will continue with the Symposium experience. In ancient Greece, the symposium was a ritualized drinking event, when drinking for pleasure was accompanied by music, dancing, recitals, or conversation. Similarly, we will be accompanied by live Lyre playing, mythological and historical wine narration. Afterwards, embark on a journey in Greek History, Mythology, Philosophy and Geology! Discover all the evidence that connects Plato’s Lost Atlantis myth with the volcano eruption of the island. Follow Plato’s Journey that inspired him to write about the ideal city through an interactive fresco. View a Holographic representation of the geological evolution of Santorini Island from the prehistoric ages until today. Re-live, with all your senses, the earthquake, the tsunami, and the volcanic eruption that led to the destruction of Atlantis in a 9D experience.
Santorini Walking food tour approx. 4 hours
Santorini Walking food tour approx. 4 hours
Join us on a walking tour through Fira and neighboring Firostefani for a journey through senses - breathtaking views, hidden alleyways, local eateries - all of that while exploring the secrets of Greek cuisine and filling your belly!
The tour starts in Firostefani and ends in Fira, making a minimum of 7 stops to cover different aspects of Greek and local Santorini cuisine - from Greek coffee to local delicacies, to classic mezes and delicious deserts. Greek cuisine is not imaginable without olives and olive oil, as well as wine and ouzo. We will taste all this and much more. The goal of the tour is to introduce guests to the Greek cuisine in a fun and informative manner from the local standpoint, showcasing not only the flavors & ingredients of Mediterranean cuisine, but also the beauty of Santorini as a world-famous destination.
Santorini sunset cruise approx. 5 hours
Santorini sunset cruise approx. 5 hours
Enjoy sailing around the crystal-clear blue waters of Santorini. First, we will visit the Red and White beaches, both unique and named after the colour of the volcanic pebbles of which they are comprised. Next, we will sail past Akrotiri and into the Caldera. Sail close the volcanic island of Thirassia is the Hot Springs, where you will enjoy swimming and a spa-like mud bath in the warm waters. We continue to Palea Kameni island for some time for swimming and snorkelling. A delicious barbeque dinner will be prepared and served on board while the magical sunset appears on the horizon.
Santorini caldera hiking trail OIa to Fira approx. 4 hours
Santorini caldera hiking trail OIa to Fira approx. 4 hours
This is the most scenic hike on the island of Santorini, starting from the capital city of the island, Fira, you will be led to Oia walking through the villages of Firostefani and Imerovigli. The greater part of the path is on the rim of the Caldera. Following this path affords a gorgeous view to the famous volcano and the Aegean Sea and also allows visitors to see the four most important villages of the island.
Santorini Wine Roads Tour (Private) - 5 hours
Santorini Wine Roads Tour (Private) - 5 hours
Highlights/Description:
You will be met in Fira town (top of the cable car) by your Expert Sommelier and seated on a luxury air conditioned coach, where you will travel around the Island visiting three Family Estate Wineries under the continual guidance of your Sommelier. Each Winery is unique in architectural design and you will get to taste fifteen different styles of wine. Our Sommelier will initiate you into the magical artistic process from the grape to the bottle, providing all the knowledge you need whilst enjoying a series of awarded white and upcoming red wines as some of the prestigious signature dessert wines Vinsanto. You will also get a chance to take in the scenery whilst stopping off a Vineyard to see the unique cultivation technique of "Kouloura" and the specificity of soil & microclimate. It is a journey among the paths of ancient vineyards, simplicity traditional family run wineries, modern wine making techniques and most important…the Awakening of the senses whilst tasting The Finest Theraic Wines, returning, having a memorable & most enjoyable experience.
Tour Duration: 5 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning or Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- English-speaking Sommelier guide
- Entrance fees
- Applicable taxes
- Transfers to/from Fira town
- Meals, unless otherwise noted
- Cable car tickets (5 EUR pp) from old Port into Fira town
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
Santorini Island Discovery - 5 hours
Santorini Island Discovery - 5 hours
Highlights/Description:
Begin in the village of Mesa Gonia where you will visit one of the islands greatest treasures; the little Panagia Episkopi Church built in 1115 AD, during the Byzantine period and housing one of the three most priceless icons in the world. You will then be whisked up the hill to one of the more traditional villages, Pyrgos, which also boasts the ruins of a Medieval Venetian castle. The village is overlooked solely by the Mount Profitis Ilias and as one of the highest points of Santorini, offers a fantastic view of the crescent shaped island. Next we are off to a wine tasting at a family owned wine estate in Megalochori, where you have the opportunity to learn a little about and sip on some of the famous wines of Santorini. The Grand Finale of our tour sees you entering the gates of the ancient site of Akrotiri, also known as the "Minoan Pompeii" which was destroyed and covered by the ashes of an enormous volcanic eruption in 1450BC. The settlement contained sophisticated multi-story buildings and magnificent fresco paintings signifying the just how advanced the Minoans were at that stage. After this exhilarating experience our guide will bring you safely back to your hotel to enjoy the rest of your stay on Santorini.
Tour Duration: 5 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning or Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Licensed, English-speaking guide
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
Santorini: Santorini Highlights - 4 hours
Santorini: Santorini Highlights - 4 hours
Meet your local guide and driver as you disembark your ship this morning for a half day exploring Santorini. Drive to Fira, where you will visit the Archaeological Museum which exhibits many items from excavations across the island such as vases from the 5th century BC and items from the Minoan age. After a short stroll in Fira, you may like to drive north to Oia, the most picturesque little town of the island, with white-washed houses, windmills and caves, perched on the very edge of the cliff.
A visit to Domain Sigalas or Boutari Wines will convince you that this small island, with some the oldest vineyards in the world, produces truly unique white wines. Or if you are an art lover you may like to visit the unique experience that is the Art Space, an art gallery set within caves of pumice rock. These carved chambers are those of a century old winery that is still in production now. The old winery production machines can be viewed alongside contemporary art from around the globe followed by a tasting of the wine produced there if you wish.
Highlights:
- Drive to Fira to visit the Archaeological Museum before heading to Oia, the most picturesque little town on the island
- Try some of the white wine produced on the island from some of the oldest vineyards in the world
Tour can Operate: Morning / Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
• Private transport by luxury car or minivan
• An expert local guide for 4 hours
• Entrance fees to all sights and museums
• All taxes
Exclusions:
• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities
Greek Food & Wine Tasting - Santorini - 5 hours
Greek Food & Wine Tasting - Santorini - 5 hours
Experience the culinary delights of Santorini through a Greek Food & Wine Tasting Tour. Explore two renowned wineries and indulge in a delectable 3-course Greek meze-style menu at a charming traditional restaurant, savoring the flavors of local cuisine and wines. This comprehensive tour offers insights into Santorini's rich food and wine culture, along with valuable tips on Greek gastronomy. Perfect for food enthusiasts, wine connoisseurs, adventurous souls, and anyone seeking an immersive gastronomic journey in Santorini.
Tour can operate: tour starts daily at 15:30
Inclusions:
- Licensed, English-speaking guide
- Applicable taxes
- Transfers to/from the place of choice
- Visit of 2 wineries and wine tasting
- Dinner in local tavern
Not Included:
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
Piraeus: The Ancient City of Athens - 8 Hours
Piraeus: The Ancient City of Athens - 8 Hours
Dominated by the remarkable Parthenon, which has stood for over 2,000 years, Athens is a city of major architectural and archaeological treasures. At Piraeus Port you will receive a warm welcome from your guide and driver who provides a captivating insight into the city’s history and culture during your full day tour.
For most, the highlight of a visit to Athens is the world famous Acropolis and the Parthenon. Dedicated to the Goddess Athena, it is one of the most important ancient monuments in the Western world. This afternoon, delight in the mesmerising display of eclectic Greek and Oriental art at the Benaki Museum. Complete your day with a drive past the Panethenaic Stadium, the pure marble masterpiece that served as the original site for the modern Olympics. At the end of the tour you are privately transferred back to your cruise ship.
Highlights:
- Ascend the Acropolis to the Parthenon, one of the most important ancient monuments in the Western world
- Tour the Benaki Museum
Tour Can Operate: Morning/ Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 8 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
All taxes
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Piraeus: Cape Sounion - 5 hours
Piraeus: Cape Sounion - 5 hours
Meet your guide as you disembark your cruise ship in Piraeus and venture along the scenic coast to Cape Sounion where you visit the ancient ruined Temple of Poseidon. This temple is believed to date from the 5th century BC and was built to honour Poseidon, who ranked second only to Athena herself in terms of power. The Temple enjoys an impressive position, high on the cliffs, and has, over the centuries, been marked by many travellers’ carved signatures, including that of Lord Byron. After touring the site, you return to your cruise ship in Piraeus.
Highlights:
- Venture along the coast to Cape Sounion to the ancient ruins of the Temple of Poseidon
Tour can Operate: Morning/ Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Low
Inclusions:
• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert A&K local guide (5 hours)
• Entrance fees
• All taxes
Exclusions:
• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities
Kusadasi: Ancient Ephesus Tour - 7 hours
Kusadasi: Ancient Ephesus Tour - 7 hours
An English speaking lecturer/guide will meet the guests at the exit of the cruise pier in KUSADASI.
After a short drive to Ephesus, the guests experience their private tour of this fascinating historical site. First, a visit will be made to the remarkable Greco-Roman archeological city of Ancient Ephesus, that flourished as a prominent cultural city and seaport between 600 BC and 500 AD.
The walking tour will begin along the Royal Road also known as the Arcadian Way, the 4th century white marble chariot thoroughfare whose most striking sight today is the two-story Library of Celsus. Uniquely beautiful, the Library once housed 12,000 scrolls of papyrus manuscripts making it the second largest library in the ancient world after the one in Alexandria, Egypt. The walk along the Royal Road also takes the visitors past the remains of some of the ancient city’s major civic buildings and temples as you move toward the Ephesus Theater from which St. Paul once preached to the Pagan Ephesians. The theater, seating 25,000 has exceptional acoustics and is still in use today for concerts and theatrical performances in summertime.
Then move to see the ongoing excavations of the Greco-Roman places-the “Elite Yamac Homes of Antiquity” (Terrace Houses) with their magnificent mosaics and frescoes.
From here, the guests will proceed to the small, but distinguished and rightly famous Ephesus Museum with unique examples of the very best Greco-Roman sculpture in the world, and with an exciting new display of Medical instruments from that era.
Finally, drive up the mountainside to visit to the so-called House of the Virgin Mary, a lovely chapel set in the hills behind Ephesus, said by some to be the last home of the Virgin Mary, where St. Paul took her for her safety away from the Pagan Ephesians.
At the end of the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel or to your cruise ship.
Added Value:
*Great introduction to Greco-Roman city of Ephesus' history and culture *The tour covers the main highlights of the ancient city Tour Duration : 6-7 hoursTour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: Partial
Physical Activity Level: High
Included: Transportation by a cheaffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
Kusadasi: Priene Day Tour - 7 hours
Kusadasi: Priene Day Tour - 7 hours
The guests will be met by a lecturer/guide at the exit of the pier in KUSADASI and drive south to visit Priene.
This ancient city is not especially large, but has an unusual intimacy and charm, in part because so many historical private houses have survived to this day. All the monuments you will see, date from the Hellenistic period, and all of them are aligned according to a strict grid-plan of the kind developed by Hippodamos, a native of neighboring Miletus. The monuments include the Temple of Zeus, a council chamber, and a small amphi-theatre. Yet Priene’s greatest treasure is its Temple of Athena, which was considered the masterpiece of the architect Pytheos who also designed the Mausoleum at Halicarnassos (Bodrum) known to be one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
After exploring Priene, the guests will cross the broad flood-plain of the river Maeander to continue to Miletus. This was once a major port but silt carried down by the River Meander blocked its harbor centuries ago. The ancient harbor is now several miles from the sea. The town is laid out according to a grid-plan designed by Hippodamos, which centers on three spacious agoras (marketplaces) today. The most striking features of the site today are the Baths of Faustina and the massive Roman Theatre.
A paved Sacred Way leads from Miletus to Dydima, not a classic town but rather a sacred precinct centering on a colossal Temple of Apollo surrounded by a double colonnade of no less than 108 huge columns. Work on the temple continued for 500 years, but its design was so ambitious that, when work was abandoned in the 4th C. AD, it was still unfinished. Even unfinished and in ruins, the temple at Dydima remains to be one of the most awe-inspiring antique monuments to be found anywhere around the Eastern Mediterranean.
At the end of the tour, the guests will be escorted back to their hotel or to the pier in KUSADASI.
Added Value:
*The tour covers the main highlights of Priene, Miletus and Didyma Tour Duration : 7 hoursTour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a chaeffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
Kusadasi: The Greco-Roman City of Ephesus & the Wine-making Village of Sirince - 7 hours
Kusadasi: The Greco-Roman City of Ephesus & the Wine-making Village of Sirince - 7 hours
At 8:30 am, an English speaking private lecturer/guide will meet and greet you outside the Bonded Area of the Kusadasi cruise pier. You will then be escorted to your chauffeur driven private deluxe air-conditioned vehicle, for a comfortable ride of about half an hour to the remarkable Greco-Roman archaeological site of Ancient Ephesus. Dating back to the 11th century B.C., it has been painstakingly excavated and restored and is one of the world’s most fascinating sites of antiquity. Ephesus flourished as a prominent city and seaport between 600 B.C. and 500 A.D. We will begin our private walking tour along Royal Road also known as the Arcadian Way, a 4th century white marble chariot thoroughfare whose most striking sight is the two-story Library of Celsus.
Uniquely beautiful, with its restored facade now the famed symbol of Ephesus, the Library once housed 12,000 scrolls of papyrus manuscripts making it the 2nd largest in the ancient world after the library in Alexandria, Egypt. Your walk along the Royal Road will also take you past the remains of some of the ancient city’s major civic buildings and temples as you move toward the Ephesus Theater from which St. Paul once preached to the Ephesians. The theater, seating 25,000 has exceptional acoustics and is still in use today for concerts and theatrical performances.
You will also visit the ongoing excavations of the Greco Roman PALACES the ''ELITE YAMAC HOMES OF ANTIQUITY'' (Terrace Houses) with their magnificent mosaics and frescoes being restored by archeologists as you visit the site.
Next visit will be to the old Greco-Turkish Village of SIRINCE, located approximately 18 miles away from the Kusadasi pier. The town itself houses about hundreds of old local Greek homes which have been superbly renovated and opened to the public.. The town also houses an authentic local market where different agricultural products are sold.
Following lunch (at your own cost) at the celebrated local Bizim Ev (meaning “Our House”) Restaurant in Sirince, you will stop by the famous wine cellar of this village, to be welcomed by the owner, and will taste his white or red wines, produced in the same style as in the old days from grapes at the vast vineyards of the Aegean Region.
You will then be returned to Kusadasi where you may explore or shop at the charming local marketplace, while your guide will escort and assist you until you wish to return to the pier to board your ship by 4 pm.
Added Value:
*Great introduction to Ephesus and Sirince *The tour covers Ephesus and the wine-making village of Sirince Tour Duration : 7 hoursTour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a chauffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
Ephesus Full Day Tour - 8 hours
Ephesus Full Day Tour - 8 hours
Highlights/Description:
- Ancient Ephesus
- Library of Celsus
- Excavations of Terrace Houses
- House of the Virgin Mary
You will proceed to the remarkable Greco-Roman site of Ancient Ephesus. Dating back to the 11th century B.C., it has been excavated and restored since 1870s. It is one of the world’s most fascinating sites of antiquity. Ephesus flourished as a prominent city and seaport between 600 B.C. and 500 A.D.
We will start our private walking tour through Royal Road also known as the Arcadian Way, 4th century white marble chariot road that leads to the most striking building, which is the two-storey Library of Celsus. Beautifully restored with its restored facade now the famed symbol of Ephesus, The Library once housed 12,000 scrolls of papyrus and parchment manuscripts, making it the 2nd largest in the ancient world after the library in Alexandria in Egypt.
Ephesus Theater, seating 25,000 has exceptional acoustics and is still in use today for concerts and theatrical performances.
You will also visit the ongoing excavations of the Greco Roman Houses of Ephesian Aristocrats (known as Terrace Houses) with their magnificent mosaics and frescoes being restored by archeologists as you visit the site. In addition to the historic monuments, your excursion will also include a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, a lovely little chapel set in the hills behind Ephesus believed to be Virgin Mary’s last home.
At the end of your tour, you will be transferred back to the cruise pier.
Tour Duration: 8 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate to Heavy
Net Price: Per Person € 201.50 based on 2 guests
Inclusions:
- Officially licensed, private guide
- Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle
- Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program
- Bottled water
- Welcome package
- Applicable taxes
- Meals, unless otherwise noted
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
Ephesus & Sirince Full Day Tour - 8 hours
Ephesus & Sirince Full Day Tour - 8 hours
Highlights/Description:
- Ancient Ephesus
- Sirince
- Home-style lunch in a local village
- Visit to a wine house
You will proceed to the remarkable Greco-Roman site of Ancient Ephesus. Dating back to the 11th century B.C., it has been excavated and restored since 1870s. It is one of the world’s most fascinating sites of antiquity. Ephesus flourished as a prominent city and seaport between 600 B.C. and 500 A.D. We will start our private walking tour through Royal Road also known as the Arcadian Way, 4th century white marble chariot road that leads to the most striking building, which is the two-storey Library of Celsus.
Beautifully restored with its restored facade now the famed symbol of Ephesus, The Library once housed 12,000 scrolls of papyrus and parchment manuscripts, making it the 2nd largest in the ancient world after the library in Alexandria in Egypt. Ephesus Theater, seating 25,000 has exceptional acoustics and is still in use today for concerts and theatrical performances.
You will also visit the ongoing excavations of the Greco Roman Houses of Ephesian Aristocrats (known as Terrace Houses) with their magnificent mosaics and frescoes being restored by archeologists as you visit the site.
In addition to the historic monuments, your excursion will also include a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, a lovely little chapel set in the hills behind Ephesus believed to be Virgin Mary’s last home.
At the end of your tour, you will be transferred back to the cruise pier.
Tour Duration: 8 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate to Heavy
Net Price: Per Person € 188.50 based on 2 guests
Inclusions:
- Officially licensed, private guide
- Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle
- Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program
- Bottled water
- Welcome package
- Applicable taxes
- Meals, unless otherwise noted
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
Ephesus Half Day Tour - 4 hours
Ephesus Half Day Tour - 4 hours
Highlights/Description:
- Ancient Ephesus
- Library of Celsus
- The Library
- Ephesus Theatre
Your English speaking guide will meet you at the Kusadasi cruise pier for your tour in Ephesus.
You will proceed to the remarkable Greco-Roman site of Ancient Ephesus. Dating back to the 11th century B.C., it has been excavated and restored since 1870s. It is one of the world’s most fascinating sites of antiquity. Ephesus flourished as a prominent city and seaport between 600 B.C. and 500 A.D. We will start our private walking tour through Royal Road also known as the Arcadian Way, 4th century white marble chariot road that leads to the most striking building, which is the two-storey Library of Celsus.
Beautifully restored with its restored facade now the famed symbol of Ephesus, The Library once housed 12,000 scrolls of papyrus and parchment manuscripts, making it the 2nd largest in the ancient world after the library in Alexandria in Egypt. Ephesus Theater, seating 25,000 has exceptional acoustics and is still in use today for concerts and theatrical performances.
At the end of your tour, you will be transferred back to the cruise pier.
Tour Duration: 4 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate to Heavy
Net Price: Per Person € 130.00 based on 2 guests
Inclusions:
- Officially licensed, private guide
- Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle
- Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program
- Bottled water
- Welcome package
- Applicable taxes
- Meals, unless otherwise noted
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
Ephesus 3D Experience Full Day Tour – 6 hours
Ephesus 3D Experience Full Day Tour – 6 hours
Ephesus 3D tour is an extraordinary experience offering an innovative way to visit Ancient Ephesus. Our 3D virtual tour brings you inside the site with accurate replicas of Ephesus, the Celcus Library, Great Theatre and more! By using this technology, you will see reconstructed major sites of the Ancient city. During this experience, your guide will further explain 7 sites; Odeon Theatre, Curetes, Trajan Fountain, Hadrian Gate, Library of Celcus, Commercial Agora and Arcadia way with a visual show of the Ancient Romans featuring live actors! Based on cutting edge technology and the master work of artists - our virtual tour is incredibly accurate.
Our team of artists, technicians and writers create each 3D tour with a great emphasis on colors, shapes, symmetry, sizes, compositions and proportions. Every element of the Ephesus 3D virtual tour is designed to convey the true atmosphere of the site.
Tour Duration: 6 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Net Price: Per Person € 130.00 based on 2 guests
Inclusions:
- English-speaking guide
- Entrance fees and applicable taxes
- Transfers to/from Kusadasi Port
- Lunch at a typical Village Restaurant, included unlimited soft drinks and wine
Not Included: - Gratuities to driver and guide
- Personal expenses
Ephesus: Jewel of Roman Archeology - 6 Hours
Ephesus: Jewel of Roman Archeology - 6 Hours
Highlights:
- Temple of Artemis
- Ephesus including Marble Road, Temple of Hadrian, Terrace Houses, Library of Celsus and Great Theater of Ephesus
- House of Virgin Mary
Tour can operate: (morning or afternoon, etc) Full day
Wheelchair Accessible: (Yes or No) YES
Physical Activity Level: (Light, Moderate, Heavy) Moderate
Inclusions: (include any info regarding transportation to/from the Cruise ship in this section)
- Transportation by A/C non-smoking deluxe vehicle
- Service of an English-speaking professional private tour guide throughout the program
- All entrance and parking fees for the sightseeing
- Complimentary beverages on vehicle throughout the journey
- All taxes and service charges
- Meals and beverages
- Honorary gratuities for guide and driver
- Personal expenses
Kusadasi Port - The Glories of Ephesus (Full Day Tour)
Kusadasi Port - The Glories of Ephesus (Full Day Tour)
PORT: KUSADASI
GLORIES OF EPHESUS
Full-Day Tour
Arrive in Kusadasi, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your full- day tour in Ephesus.
First, you will visit the House of Virgin Mary, where the Virgin is said to have lived the last years of her life. The building was rediscovered in the late 19th century by Lazartis from Smyrna based on the vision of a German nun. The site is officially declared a shrine of the Roman Catholic Church and visited by Pope Paul VI in 1967, Pope John Paul II in 1979 and Pope Benedict XVI in 2007.
Then, you will drive to Ephesus, enter and view the Odeon Theatre, where state affairs and concerts were held. Walk down the marble walkway and visit the Hadrian Temple. It was dedicated in 118 AD to Hadrian, Artemis, and the people of Ephesus but greatly reconstructed in the 4th century. This impressive Corinthian style temple has beautiful reliefs on the porch. According to the belief of Ephesians, the Medusa head on the porch, would protect the city from its enemies.
A special visit will be made to the spectacular Terrace Houses (Villas) located on top of the hill within the Ephesus. They have a fantastic view of the entire city of Ephesus. They were inhabited by wealthy Ephesians, and are finely decorated with incredible examples of mosaics and frescos. The Terrace Houses were brought to light in excavations carried out since the 1980s by a team of Austrian archeologists. Along with those in Pompeii, they constitute some of the most vivid examples of Roman domestic architecture to survive to the present.
Next, you will proceed to the Celsus Library, The library is the best preserved structure of its kind. The inscription on the side of the building’s front staircase says that the library was build by Julius, in his father’s honor, after his death. His father, Celsus was the Roman governor of Asia Minor early in the 2nd century AD. His tomb is in the library as well.
Next, visit the Great Theatre, dating back to the Hellenistic period. In the 1st century AD it was successfully reconstructed and expanded by the Romans until it reached the seating capacity of 25,000. This is also the place where it is believed that St.Paul preached. It is still used for performances today.
Lunch recommended at a local restaurant.
At the end of your day, you will return to Kusadasi and have some time for shopping in town before you embark your ship.
Includes:
• 1 full- day of private sightseeing in Ephesus
• Licensed professional guide in English Language
• Air- conditioned luxury vehicle with a professional driver
• Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary
• Bottled water provided throughout the tour
• Welcome package
• VAT tax
Not Included:
• Gratuities to guide and driver
• Personal expenses of the guests
• Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary
• Recommended lunch
Kusadasi Port - A Taste of Ephesus- (Half day tour)
Kusadasi Port - A Taste of Ephesus- (Half day tour)
PORT: KUSADASI
A TASTE OF EPHESUS
Half- Day Tour
Arrive in Kusadasi, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your half- day of private sightseeing in Ephesus.
First, you will drive to Ephesus, enter and view the Odeon Theatre, where state affairs and concerts were held. Walk down the marble walkway and visit the Hadrian Temple. It was dedicated in 118 AD to Hadrian, Artemis, and the people of Ephesus but greatly reconstructed in the 4th century. This impressive Corinthian style temple has beautiful reliefs on the porch. According to the belief of Ephesians, the Medusa head on the porch, would protect the city from its enemies.
A special visit will be made to the spectacular Terrace Houses (Villas) located on top of the hill within the Ephesus. They have a fantastic view of the entire city of Ephesus. They were inhabited by wealthy Ephesians, and are finely decorated with incredible examples of mosaics and frescos. The Terrace Houses were brought to light in excavations carried out since the 1980s by a team of Austrian archeologists. Along with those in Pompeii, they constitute some of the most vivid examples of Roman domestic architecture to survive to the present.
Next, you will proceed to the Celsus Library, The library is the best preserved structure of its kind. The inscription on the side of the building’s front staircase says that the library was build by Julius, in his father’s honor, after his death. His father, Celsus was the Roman governor of Asia Minor early in the 2nd century AD. His tomb is in the library as well.
Last, visit the Great Theatre, dating back to the Hellenistic period. In the 1st century AD it was successfully reconstructed and expanded by the Romans until it reached the seating capacity of 25,000. This is also the place where it is believed that St.Paul preached. It is still used for performances today.
At the end of your day, you will return to Kusadasi and have some time for shopping in town before your embark your ship.
Includes:
- 1 half-day of private sightseeing in Ephesus
- Licensed professional guide in English language
- Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary
- Private Air-conditioned VIP vehicle with professional driver
- Welcome Package
- Bottled water provided throughout the tours
- VAT taxes
Not included:
- Gratuities to guide and driver
- Personal expenses of the guests
- Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary
Kusadasi Port - Ephesus & Virgin Mary House - (Half Day Tour)
Kusadasi Port - Ephesus & Virgin Mary House - (Half Day Tour)
PORT: KUSADASI
EPHESUS & VIRGIN MARY HOUSE
Half-Day Tour
Arrive in Kusadasi, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your half- day tour in Ephesus.
First, you will visit the House of Virgin Mary, where the Virgin is said to have lived the last years of her life. The building was rediscovered in the late 19th century by Lazartis from Smyrna based on the vision of a German nun. The site is officially declared a shrine of the Roman Catholic Church and visited by Pope Paul VI in 1967, Pope John Paul II in 1979 and Pope Benedict XVI in 2007.
Then, you will drive to Ephesus, enter and view the Odeon Theatre, where state affairs and concerts were held. Walk down the marble walkway and visit the Hadrian Temple. It was dedicated in 118 AD to Hadrian, Artemis, and the people of Ephesus but greatly reconstructed in the 4th century. This impressive Corinthian style temple has beautiful reliefs on the porch. According to the belief of Ephesians, the Medusa head on the porch, would protect the city from its enemies.
Next, you will proceed to the Celsus Library, The library is the best preserved structure of its kind. The inscription on the side of the building’s front staircase says that the library was build by Julius, in his father’s honour, after his death. His father, Celsus was the Roman governor of Asia Minor early in the 2nd century AD. His tomb is in the library as well.
Next, visit the Great Theatre, dating back to the Hellenistic period. In the 1st century AD it was successfully reconstructed and expanded by the Romans until it reached the seating capacity of 25,000. This is also the place where it is believed that St.Paul preached. It is still used for performances today.
At the end of your day, you will return to Kusadasi and have some time for shopping in town before you embark your ship.
Includes:
- 1 half-day of private sightseeing in Ephesus
- Licensed professional guide in English Language
- Air- conditioned luxury vehicle with a professional driver
- Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary
- Bottled water provided throughout the tour
- Welcome package
- VAT tax
Not Included:
- Gratuities to guide and driver
- Personal expenses of the guests
- Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary
Kusadasi Port - Three Ancient Cities; Didyma, Miletus & Priene (Full Day Tour)
Kusadasi Port - Three Ancient Cities; Didyma, Miletus & Priene (Full Day Tour)
KUSADASI
THREE ANCIENT CITIES
Your first stop will be Priene. The ancient harbor city of Priene probably changed its location when the silt of the Meander River threatened to bury it. Now it is nearly 16 km away from the sea. The original place of the city has never been found but it was probably a peninsula with two harbors. Priene was laid out on a Hippodamian system of grid plan at the foot of a spectacular cliff on mount Mycale and contained many famous examples of Hellenistic art and architecture.All the streets intersect at the right angles.
Next, visit Miletus an ancient city located near the present Akkoy at the mouth of the Buyuk Menderes (Meander) River, owed its importance to its position on trade routes. It was one of the largest cities in Anatolia with a population of between 80,000 and 100,000. Highly prosperous, it founded many colonies and was the home of the 6C BC philosophers Anaximander, Anaximenes, and Thales, the town planner Hippodamus and architect Isidorus. Miletus seems to have produced geniuses the way Aphrodisias produced sculptors.
Lunch suggested at local restaurant.
Last, you will visit Didyma. The word Didyma meant "twins" and was associated by some as being the meeting place of Zeus and Leto to have their twins Apollo and Artemis. Didyma was famed as a prophecy center dedicated to Apollo which served a similar purpose as the Delphi of Anatolia. It was not a city but a sanctuary linked to Miletus by Milesians with a 19 km/12 m sacred road. However, this road may not have been constructed until the end of the 1C AD. In addition to pilgrimages made by sea, some festivals of drama, music and sports were held there every four years.
At the end of your tour, you can return to Kusadasi.
OUR PACKAGE RATE INCLUDES
- 1 full day of sightseeing in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver in Three Ancient Cities.
- Private chauffeur driven a/c deluxe vehicle throughout the program.
- Officially licensed, English speaking guide throughout the tour program.
- Entrance fees to all museums, parks, and historic sites as marked on the itinerary.
- Bottled water provided throughout the tour.
- Welcome Package
- VAT taxes.
- Gratuities to the Guide & Driver
- At the discretion of the guests
- Personal expenses of the guests
- Suggested lunch
Kusadasi Port - Biblical Tour of Ephesus ( Full Day tour)
Kusadasi Port - Biblical Tour of Ephesus ( Full Day tour)
First, you will visit the House of Virgin Mary, where the Virgin is said to have lived the last years of her life. The building was rediscovered in the late 19th century by Lazartis from Smyrna based on the vision of a German nun. The site is officially declared a shrine of the Roman Catholic Church and visited by Pope Paul VI in 1967, Pope John Paul II in 1979 and Pope Benedict XVI in 2007.
Then, visit Ephesus, famous throughout the ancient world for its Temple of Artemis. You will first visit Odeon Theatre where the state affairs used to be held. Then, view The Temple of Hadrian is one of the main attractions at Ephesus, with a beautiful arch on the front facade and interesting reliefs of Medusa. According to the belief of Ephesians, the Medusa head on the porch, would protect the city from its enemies.
Next, you will visit the newly excavated spectacular The Terrace Houses on the Curetes street belonged to the rich people of Ephesus. Many of them were three-storied and had peristyles surrounded by rooms without windows but included frescoes and mosaics of mythological scenes. Some of the frescoes were scenes from the comedies of Menander and the tragedies of Euripides. They were luxuriously furnished private houses with fountains and central heating. Between the street and houses was a portico with a mosaic floor, behind which were shops.
Proceed to the Celsus Library is a Roman mausoleum and library built in the early 2nd century AD. The Library of Celsus was commissioned by the Julius as a mausoleum for his father, Roman governor of the Asian Provinces. It is one of the most beautifully reconstructed buildings in Ephesus, it has become an icon of the ancient city.
The Great Theatre, dates back to the Hellenistic period. It is one of the most impressive buildings in Ephesus which has the capacity of 25,000 seats. The theatre was used for concerts, plays and religious, political and philosophical discussions and for gladiator and animal fights. Marble Road, runs between the Library of Celsus and the theater and is a part of the sacred walk way.
Last, visit the Church of Mary that is a church of great historical significance located in Ephesus. It is also known as the Double Church, because it is thought one aisle was dedicated to the Virgin and the other to St. John, and the Council Church because the Council of Ephesus is believed to have been held here.
Lunch recommended at a local restaurant.
Next, you will see the Basilica of St. John,where John and the Virgin Mary went between 42 and 48 AD and lived. Three hundred years after the death of Saint John, a small chapel on the Ayasuluk Hill was constructed over his grave in the 4th century AD. This church was replaced in the 6th century AD by a huge basilica built by the Emperor Justinian, the impressive ruins of which are still visible.
Last, visit The Temple of Artemis also known less precisely as Temple of Diana, was a Greek temple dedicated to Artemis completed around 550 BC at Ephesus. The monument was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
At the end of your tour, you can return to Kusadasi for some shopping in town or visit one of the carpet villages along the way before embarking the ship. If you are not interested in shopping, please advise your guide that you would like to return directly to the ship.
Inclusions:
- 1 full day of sightseeing in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver in Ephesus
- Private chauffeur driven a/c deluxe vehicle throughout the program.
- Officially license, English speaking guide throughout the tour program.
- Entrance fees to all museums, parks, and historic sites as marked on the itinerary.
- Bottled water provided throughout the tour.
- Welcome Package
- VAT taxes.
- Gratuities to the Guide & Driver
- At the discretion of the guests
- Personal expenses of the guests
- Recommended lunch
Kusadasi Port - Ephesus & Didyma & Miletus (Full Day Tour)
Kusadasi Port - Ephesus & Didyma & Miletus (Full Day Tour)
Arrive in Kusadasi, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for private full day sightseeing.
First, visit Ephesus, famous throughout the ancient world for its Temple of Artemis. You will first visit Odeon Theatre where the state affairs used to be held. Then, view The Temple of Hadrian is one of the main attractions at Ephesus, with a beautiful arch on the front facade and interesting reliefs of Medusa. According to the belief of Ephesians, the Medusa head on the porch, would protect the city from its enemies.
Next, you will visit the newly excavated spectacular The Terrace Houses on the Curetes street belonged to the rich people of Ephesus. Many of them were three-storied and had peristyles surrounded by rooms without windows but included frescoes and mosaics of mythological scenes. Some of the frescoes were scenes from the comedies of Menander and the tragedies of Euripides. They were luxuriously furnished private houses with fountains and central heating. Between the street and houses was a portico with a mosaic floor, behind which were shops.
The Great Theatre, dates back to the Hellenistic period. It is one of the most impressive buildings in Ephesus which has the capacity of 25,000 seats. The theatre was used for concerts, plays and religious, political and philosophical discussions and for gladiator and animal fights. Marble Road, runs between the Library of Celsus and the theater and is a part of the sacred walk way.
Then, you will drive approximately 1½ hours to visit the ancient cities of Miletus and Didyma.
Lunch suggested at a local restaurant.
Next, visit Miletus an ancient city located near the present Akkoy at the mouth of the Buyuk Menderes (Meander) River, owed its importance to its position on trade routes. It was one of the largest cities in Anatolia with a population of between 80,000 and 100,000. Highly prosperous, it founded many colonies and was the home of the 6C BC philosophers Anaximander, Anaximenes, and Thales, the town planner Hippodamus and architect Isidorus. Miletus seems to have produced geniuses the way Aphrodisias produced sculptors.
Last, you will visit Didyma. The word Didyma meant "twins" and was associated by some as being the meeting place of Zeus and Leto to have their twins Apollo and Artemis. Didyma was famed as a prophecy center dedicated to Apollo which served a similar purpose as the Delphi of Anatolia. It was not a city but a sanctuary linked to Miletus by Milesians with a 19 km/12 m sacred road. However, this road may not have been constructed until the end of the 1C AD. In addition to pilgrimages made by sea, some festivals of drama, music and sports were held there every four years.
OUR NET PACKAGE RATE INCLUDES
- 1 full day of sightseeing in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver in Ephesus, Didyma and Miletus.
- Private chauffeur driven a/c deluxe vehicle throughout the program
- Licensed professional guide in English language.
- Officially licensed, English speaking guide throughout the tour program.
- Entrance fees to all museums, parks, and historic sites as marked on the itinerary.
- Bottled water provided throughout the tour.
- Welcome Package
- VAT taxes.
- Gratuities to the Guide & Driver
- At the discretion of the guests
- Personal expenses of the guests
- Suggested lunch
Istanbul: Jewish Heritage Tour - 7 hours
Istanbul: Jewish Heritage Tour - 7 hours
An English speaking officially licenced lecturer/guide will meet the guests at the exit of the Istanbul cruise pier at 09:00 am, with a sign reading their names, for a private sightseeing tour of Istanbul.
First visit of the day is to the Galata Tower which was built in 1303 by immigrants from Genoa, Italy. While sipping your Turkish coffee there, you will be amazed at the spectacular view of the Golden Horn and the old buildings located on its shores depicting how Istanbul looked hundreds years ago.
The private tour will continue with a visit to the Neve Shalom and the oldest Synagogue in Istanbul- the Ahrida Synagogue, built around 1470 by Jewish immigrants from Macedonia.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant close to the sites.
The guests will be then taken to the Jewish Museum of Turkey. There is evidence that this building as a former synagogue existed in 1671. However the actual building was re-erected over its original foundations presumably in the early 19th Century. Zulfaris Synagogue has opened its doors as the Jewish museum in 2001. Continue to visit the Balat section, where the Star of David appears.
At the end of the day,a private lecturer/guide will take the guests back to the cruise pier.
Closed weekly days for sites/museums:
• Synagogues are closed on Saturdays and Sunday
* Neve Shalon Synagogue is closed on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays
• Zulfaris Synagogue (Jewish Museum) is closed on Saturdays.
* Please forward us a copy of your guests’ passport page with the photo, as required by the Chief Rabbi of Istanbul, to obtain His official approval for the synagogue visits in Turkey.
Added Value:
*Great introduction to Istanbul's Jewish history and culture *The tour covers the main highlights of the Jewish Heritage in Istanbul Tour Duration : 7 hoursTour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: Partial
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a cheaffeur driven a/c private vehicle, a licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
Istanbul: Edirne Highlights - 11 hours
Istanbul: Edirne Highlights - 11 hours
An English speaking private lecturer/guide will meet you at Istanbul cruise pier at 8 am and you will be driven to Edirne (approx. 3 hours), known formerly as Adrianople and was the second capital of the Ottoman Empire. Edirne is situated in Thrace, in westernmost Turkey on the border of Greece and is known for the Selimiye Mosque, built in the 16th century by the famous architect Sinan. The mosque's main structure comprises 18 small domes dominated by a huge central dome on 8 columns with 3 balconied minarets on 4 sides.
The tour will include visits to Selimiye & Complex (Vakiflar), Turkish - Islamic Works Museum The works are exhibited in the room numbered 14 in Dar - ül Tedris Madrasa in the courtyard of Selimiye Mosque with the Archaeological and Ethnographical Museums, In the hand works part, there is a village kitchen, Carpet, Kilim and Rush Mat weaving looms are located and other incredible mosques such as the Yildirim Mosque, Uc Serefeli Mosque and the Beyazit II Mosque.
Lunch will be served at local restaurant close to the sights, at your own cost.
There are also impressive caravanserais such as the Rustem Pasha and the lively restored Arasta and Bedesten bazaars. You may also see some beautiful Ottoman bridges in Edirne and around the area, such as Uzunkopru, which was also built by the architect Sinan. In the evening You will be transferred back to your cruise ship around 7 pm.
Added Value:
*Great introduction to the former Ottoman capital city of Edirne *The tour covers the main highlights of the city Tour Duration : 10-11 hoursTour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: Partial
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a cheaffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
Istanbul: Highlights - 7 hours
Istanbul: Highlights - 7 hours
The private tour program will start with the Roman Hippodrome that was a colossal stadium housing horse races around which the socio-political life of the Roman capital was centered. In its great days, it was 1575 feet long, 384 feet wide and held 100,000 spectators. It was the site of chariot racing, gladiator fights, circuses, inaugurations and triumphal parades.
The tour will continue with a visit to the Blue Mosque- the masterpiece of 17th century Ottoman Architecture, famous for its unique hand made original Iznik Tiles impressing the guests with their rich dominant blue colors and oriental patterns. They have become collectors’ items today, auctioned at celebrated houses like the Sotheby’s.
Next visit will be to the Topkapi Palace and its Imperial Treasury Section that was the center of Ottoman Empire’s Government Seat ruling most of the Middle East and the Eastern Europe from this palace for 500 years.
Lunch will be served at a recommended local/select restaurants close to the sites.
In the afternoon, visit the World famous Hagia Sophia (The Church of Divine Wisdom), one of the extraordinary masterpieces in the history of World architecture. When a previous church on this site was burned during the Nikka Revolt in 532, Justinian ordered his architect, Isidorus, to build a structure worthy of his empire. Hagia Sophia was completed in only five years and was dedicated on Christmas Day of 537. The building inspired countless generations by its innovations in weight support and construction techniques and what a dome it was: the popular belief was that ‘the dome was suspended from Heaven by an invisible golden chain’. In reality it was work of men, but a worldly simulator of the Heavens
Finally, visit the Grand Bazaar, more dazzling than any other oriental bazaar, built in 1461 and in service ever since. It contains 3,500 shops employing more than 20,000 people all under one roof. Everything imaginable in the world is for sale here, glittering gold and silver jewelry, antique tiles, leather, and souvenirs. Just seeing and experiencing this fascinating bazaar is a memorable experience.
At the end of today’s private tour, the guests will be transferred back to the cruise pier.
- Closed weekly days for sites/museums:
- St. Sophia is closed on Mondays
- Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays
- Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays and official holidays.
Highlights:
- Great introduction to Istanbul's history and culture
- The tour covers the main highlights of the city
Tour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: Partial
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a chauffeur driven a/c private vehicle, licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
Istanbul: Private Art Collections - 7 hours
Istanbul: Private Art Collections - 7 hours
An English speaking private lecturer/guide will meet you at at the Istanbul cruise pier at 9 am for departure by chauffeur driven a/c deluxe minivan, to start your private sightseeing tour of Istanbul.
Today’s private tour will start with a visit to the Istanbul Modern Museum of Art, situated at the shores of the Bosphorus. Istanbul Modern Museum of Art exhibits Turkey’s art heritage, and creates a platform for Turkish peoples’ creativity, dynamism, cultural identity and universal values.
A drive along the scenic Bosphorus Avenue will take you to the Family Villa of the Sabanci’s, the Internationally successful Turkish industrialist, now housing Mr. Sabanci’s lifetime collection of rare art pieces and celebrated paintings by Int’l and local masters, displayed in his former Family Home, recently donated to his Foundation as a Private Museum.
Lunch will be served at a local seafood restaurant by the shores of the Bosphorus (at your own discretion and cost).
After lunch, you will visit Private Museum of Lady Sadberk, donated to the nation by art-loving wife of Vehbi Koc, another leading industrialist. The beautiful, late-Ottoman wooden mansion contains a fabulous collection of Turkish arts and crafts, including jewelry, silverware, and Iznik ceramics of the classic period.
At the end of the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel/cruise pier by 4 pm.
Closed weekly days for sites/museums:
• Istanbul Modern Museum is closed on Mondays.
• Sabanci: Museum is closed on Mondays.
• Lady Sadberk Han Museum is closed on Wednesdays.
Added Value:
Tour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: Partial
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a chaeffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
Istanbul: Private Yacht Cruise along the Bosphorus - 7 hours
Istanbul: Private Yacht Cruise along the Bosphorus - 7 hours
An English speaking officially licensed lecturer/guide will meet the guests at the Istanbul cruise pier at 09:00 am for a private sightseeing tour of Istanbul.
Today’s tour will start with a visit to the Dolmabahce Palace- the largest and the finest example of Ottoman Baroque Architecture, a monument to the Ottomans’ westernization process in the 19th century. The Ottoman response to the overwhelming changes in the post-renaissance world was rapid westernization, initiated in the imperial lifestyle at first that gave way to the creation of a series of baroque-style European-fashion palaces on the shores of the Bosphorus.
You will then board a private boat for a cruise on the Bosphorus against the majestic skyline of Istanbul. Your private boat will cruise along the romantic Bosphorus visiting both the Europe Side and the Asia Side of Istanbul by the shores of local fishing villages, en route when it is possible to take memorable photos of the fascinating environments including the 15th century Rumelihisar? Fortress, the Summer Palaces of Lady Ottoman Sultans, and the historical Wooden Houses (Yalis) of famous Turkish families. The cruise ends on the Asian side of Istanbul.
Lunch will be served at a local seafood restaurants in Kanlica Village by the Bosphorus.
After lunch, you will proceed to the top of the Grand Camlica Hill, where you will enjoy the panoramic view of the European side of Istanbul.
Your private tour will continue with a visit to the Beylerbeyi Palace, the residence of the Ottoman Sultans in late 19th and early 20th century.
After this visit, a scenic drive on the Asian shores of the Bosphorus will take you to the Kanlica Village where you will have a taste of the famous “local yogurt” and “apple tea” in a local café by the Bosphorus.
At the end of the day, the lecturer/guide will take the guests back to the hotel/cruise ship by 4 pm.
Closed weekly days for sites/museums:
• Dolmabahçe Palace is closed on Mondays and Thursdays.
• Beylerbeyi Palace is closed on Mondays and Thursdays.
Added Value:
Tour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a chauffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
Istanbul: The 16th Century Masterpieces of Sinan the Architect - 7 hours
Istanbul: The 16th Century Masterpieces of Sinan the Architect - 7 hours
Your English speaking private guide will meet you at the Istanbul cruise pier at 9 am for a private full day sightseeing tour of Sinan the architect’s Istanbul buildings.
The private tour will start with a visit to Rustem Pasha Mosque. It was designed by famous “Sinan the Architect” for Grand Vizier Rustem Pasha. Rustem Pasha Mosque is famous for its exquisite Iznik tiles, set in beautiful floral and geometric designs, which cover not only the facade of the porch but also the walls and columns.
Continue to Mosque of Suleyman the Magnificent, which is the most important of all the imperial mosques in Istanbul. Suleyman the Magnificent and his wife are both buried here and the mosque is considered the most beautiful of the city’s Imperial mosques. It was built between 1550 and 1557 by Sinan, and is erected on the crest of a hill. The mosque is conspicuous by its great size, and has four minarets – one in each corner of the courtyard. The interior is also spectacular; the mihrab (prayer niche facing Mecca) and the mimber (pulpit) are finely carved in white marble, and there are magnificent stained glass windows.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant close to the sights (at your own discretion and cost).
In the afternoon, you will visit the Mihrimah Sultan Mosque located in the Edirnekapi neighborhood near the Byzantine city walls. Located on the peak of the Sixth Hill near the highest point of the city, the mosque is a prominent landmark in Istanbul. The Mihrimah Sultan Mosque was designed by "Sinan the Architect" for the favorite daughter of Suleiman the Magnificent, Princess Mihrimah.
Last visit of the day will be to the Sehzade Mosque which was commissioned by Sultan Suleiman in memory of his eldest son by Hürrem, Prince Mehmet, who died the age of 21. It was the first major commission by the Imperial Architect Sinan and was completed in 1548. It is considered by architectural historians as Sinan's first masterpiece of classical Ottoman architecture.
At the end of the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel/cruise ship by 4 pm.
Added Value:
*Great introduction to Sinan the Architect's masterpieces *The tour covers the masterpieces of Sinan the Architect in Istanbul Tour Duration : 7 hoursTour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: Partial
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a chauffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
Istanbul Full Day Sightseeing plus Private Bosphorus Cruise - 8 hours
Istanbul Full Day Sightseeing plus Private Bosphorus Cruise - 8 hours
Highlights/Description:
- Dolmabahce Palace
- Cruise on Bosphorus
- Rüstem Pasha Mosque
- Spice Bazaar
First, you will proceed to explore the 19th Century Dolmabahce Palace to experience its eclectic style of architecture with Baroque and Rococo touch. Compared to Topkap? Palace, Dolmabahçe is more westernized in its architectural style. You will enjoy its elaborate interior decoration.
You will next board a private motor yacht for a relaxing cruise on the Bosphorus, which has been a geopolitically important strait between Europe and Asia connecting the Black Sea to the Marmara Sea. You will pass by some magnificent palaces, old mansions and fortresses.
Next, you will see the Rüstem Pasha Mosque, which is among the city's architectural gems. This is the first example of the great Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan building a mosque to an octagonal plan. Beautifully proportioned and the interior is covered in some of the most exquisite Iznik tiles ever produced. The tiles, made at the height of Iznik's supremacy, have a good deal of the famous red color that was the envy of other tile makers (blue, yellow, white and green were easy colors to produce, but red was extraordinarily difficult.
You will explore the Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar). It was constructed in the 17th Century as a part of the New Mosque complex. This oriental market is the best place to buy Turkish delight, exotic spices, herbs, Turkish coffee and tea.
Before you will be transferred back to the port, your guide will take you to the backstreets of the Spice Bazaar to taste a traditional Ottoman drink: Boza (fermented millet) at the famous Vefa Bozacisi.
At the end of the tour, your private guide will transfer you back to your hotel or cruise pier.
Tour Duration: 8 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Officially licensed, private guide
- Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle
- 2 Hour Bosphorus Cruise with Private Yacht
- Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program
- Bottled water
- Welcome package
- Applicable taxes
- Meals, unless otherwise noted
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
Istanbul Half Day Sightseeing plus Private Bosphorus Cruise - 4 hours
Istanbul Half Day Sightseeing plus Private Bosphorus Cruise - 4 hours
Highlights/Description:
Your English-speaking, private guide will meet you at the cruise pier for your half day sightseeing tour of Istanbul.
First, you will proceed to explore the 19th Century Dolmabahce Palace to experience its eclectic style of architecture with Baroque and Rococo touch. Compared to Topkap? Palace, Dolmabahçe is more westernized in its architectural style. You will enjoy its elaborate interior decoration.
You will next board a private motor yacht for a relaxing cruise on the Bosphorus, which has been a geopolitically important strait between Europe and Asia connecting the Black Sea to the Marmara Sea. You will pass by some magnificent palaces, old mansions and fortresses.
At the end of the tour, your private guide will transfer you back to your hotel or cruise pier.
Tour Duration: 4 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Officially licensed, private guide
- Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle
- 2 Hour Bosphorus Cruise with Private Yacht
- Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program
- Bottled water
- Welcome package
- Applicable taxes
- Meals, unless otherwise noted
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
Jewish Heritage Half Day Tour (Istanbul) - 4 hours
Jewish Heritage Half Day Tour (Istanbul) - 4 hours
Highlights/Description:
- Galata Quarter
- Ahrida Synagogue
- Jewish Museum
- Grand Bazaar
Your English-speaking, private guide will meet you at the cruise pier for your half day sightseeing tour of Istanbul.
Your private tour will start with a visit to the old Galata Quarter, a Jewish quarter for centuries. Visit to the Galata Tower, which was built in 1303 by immigrants from Genoa, Italy. A medieval stone tower in the heart of Pera quarter just to the north of the Golden Horn. One of the city's most striking landmarks, it is a high, cone-capped cylinder that dominates the skyline and affords a panoramic vista of Old Istanbul and its environs. You will enjoy the spectacular view of the city.
Next visit will be to the Ottoman Baroque style Ahrida Synagogue originally built in the 15th century and is the earliest synagogue in Istanbul. The original 20-foot long oak bimah (teva), shaped either like Noah’s Ark or, like the Ottoman ship which brought the Sephardim to freedom from Spain to Turkey, can still be seen.
Your private tour will continue with a visit to the Jewish Museum of Turkey, which is housed in the former Zulfaris Synagogue, aims to “collect, preserve, exhibit, interpret and disseminate knowledge about the cultural heritage of the Turkish Jews.” It captures 700 years of amiable relations between Jews and Turks, beginning in 1326 with the Ottoman conquest of Bursa. The building itself dates from the early 19th century, although there is evidence of a Synagogue in the same spot in the 17th century. The Synagogue functioned as a place of worship for over a century, and was reopened as the Quincentenial Foundation Museum of Turkish Jews (Jewish Museum of Turkey) in 2001.The Museum contains various exhibits relating to Jewish history in Istanbul and is fitted with information panels, maps and some touch screen information booths.
Lastly visit the famous Grand Bazaar, the largest and the oldest covered Bazaar in this part of the world with more than 4000 small shops. You will see a great variety of Turkish handicrafts, handmade oriental carpets, jewelry and many souvenirs within the old market.
At the end of your tour, you will be transferred back to the cruise pier.
Tour Duration: 4 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning or Afternoon (not available on the Sabbath or Jewish Holidays)
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Officially licensed, private guide
- Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle
- Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program
- Bottled water
- Welcome package
- Applicable taxes
- Meals, unless otherwise noted
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
Old City of Istanbul Full Day Tour - 8 hours
Old City of Istanbul Full Day Tour - 8 hours
Highlights/Description:
- Roman Hippodrome and Egyptian Obelisk
- Blue Mosque
- Haghia Sophia
- Topkapi Palace
- Basilica Cistern
- Grand Bazaar
Your English-speaking, private guide will meet you at the cruise pier for your full day sightseeing tour of Istanbul with a deluxe air-conditioned mini-van.
You will first visit the Roman Hippodrome, along with the Egyptian Obelisk, and then proceed to the Blue Mosque, which was built in between 1609-1616. The Blue tiles cover the walls have given its popular name “Blue Mosque”.
Next visit will be to one of the great monumental buildings of the world Haghia Sophia that was built by Emperor Justinian in 537. It has remained as the greatest church until the conquest of Constantinople in 1453 by the Ottoman Sultan Mehmet II. The great dome and its gallery were covered with gold mosaics and still survive.
Proceed to the magnificent Topkap? Palace, which has been the residence of the Ottoman Sultans for almost four centuries. Besides being the residence of the Sultan and his family, Topkap? was also the seat of the Ottoman Divan. 5000 people lived in the palace. You will see the Sultan’s Treasury and the Holy Relics exhibition.
You will continue to the Underground Cistern (Basilica Cistern), which is the most unusual structure in the city. This was a vital part of defense system of the city as a big water reservoir, which can hold 18 million gallons of water.
Lastly visit the famous Grand Bazaar, the largest and the oldest covered Bazaar in this part of the world with more than 4000 small shops. You will see a great variety of Turkish handicrafts, handmade oriental carpets, jewelry and many souvenirs within the old market.
Before you are transferred back to your hotel or the cruise pier, you will visit the best baklava factory to taste this awesome dessert.
At the end of your tour, you will be transferred back to the cruise pier.
Tour Duration: 8 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Officially licensed, private guide
- Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle
- Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program
- Bottled water
- Welcome package
- Applicable taxes
- Meals, unless otherwise noted
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
Old City of Istanbul Half Day Tour - 4 hours
Old City of Istanbul Half Day Tour - 4 hours
Highlights/Description:
- Roman Hippodrome
- Egyptian Obelisk
- Blue Mosque
- Haghia Sophia –OR– Topkapi Palace
- Grand Bazaar
Your English-speaking, private guide will meet you at the cruise pier for your half day sightseeing tour of Istanbul with a deluxe air-conditioned mini-van.
You will first visit the Roman Hippodrome, along with the Egyptian Obelisk, and then proceed to the Blue Mosque, which was built in between 1609-1616. The Blue tiles cover the walls have given its popular name “Blue Mosque”.
*Next visit will be to one of the great monumental buildings of the world Haghia Sophia that was built by Emperor Justinian in 537. It has remained as the greatest church until the conquest of Constantinople in 1453 by the Ottoman Sultan Mehmet II. The great dome and its gallery were covered with gold mosaics and still survive.
OR
*Next visit will be to the magnificent Topkap? Palace, which has been the residence of the Ottoman Sultans for almost four centuries. Besides being the residence of the Sultan and his family, Topkap? was also the seat of the Ottoman Divan. 5000 people lived in the palace. You will see the Sultan’s Treasury and the Holy Relics exhibition.
Lastly visit the famous Grand Bazaar, the largest and the oldest covered Bazaar in this part of the world with more than 4000 small shops. You will see a great variety of Turkish handicrafts, handmade oriental carpets, jewelry and many souvenirs within the old market.
At the end of your tour, you will be transferred back to the cruise pier.
* You have the option to choose Topkapi Palace or St. Sophia
Tour Duration: 4 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Officially licensed, private guide
- Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle
- Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program
- Bottled water
- Welcome package
- Applicable taxes
- Meals, unless otherwise noted
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
Istanbul - At Your Leisure Tour - 8 Hours (Provided by Travelive)
Istanbul - At Your Leisure Tour - 8 Hours (Provided by Travelive)
At Your Leisure Option: Please see below for details on this option.
You decide where to go and what to see.
Included:
- Private Luxury Sedan with English-Speaking guide and driver for 8 hours
- Bottled water in the vehicle
- Gratuities to guide and driver**
Excluded:
- Cost of meals and refreshments other than bottled water
- Entrance fees
- Items of personal nature
**Gratuities have been prepaid. Additional gratuities are at guest’s discretion.
Highlights of Istanbul - 8 Hours
Highlights of Istanbul - 8 Hours
Highlights:
- Egyptian Obelisk and Hippodrome Square
- Blue Mosque
- Topkapi Palace including Harem and Treasury
- Temple of St. Sophia
- Grand Bazaar & Nuru Osmaniye District
Tour can operate: (morning or afternoon, etc) Full day
Wheelchair Accessible: (Yes or No) Yes
Physical Activity Level: (Light, Moderate, Heavy) Moderate
Inclusions: (include any info regarding transportation to/from the Cruise ship in this section)
- Transportation by A/C non-smoking deluxe vehicle
- Service of an English-speaking professional private tour guide throughout the program
- All entrance and parking fees for the sightseeing
- Complimentary beverages on vehicle throughout the journey
- All taxes and service charges
- Meals and beverages
- Honorary gratuities for guide and driver
- Personal expenses
Istanbul Port - Treasures of Istanbul (Full Day Tour)
Istanbul Port - Treasures of Istanbul (Full Day Tour)
PORT: ISTANBUL
TREASURES OF ISTANBUL
Full-Day Tour
Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your full- day of private sightseeing.
Your private tour of Istanbul begins with a visit to the Hippodrome, which was one of the largest chariot race grounds of the Byzantine Empire. You will take a short walk to the Blue Mosque, completed in 1616, it is a triumph of harmony, proportion and elegance. The mosque was a part of a complex also including, tombs, fountains, kitchens, and a bath. The blue Iznik Tiles covering the walls have given the mosque its popular name, Blue Mosque.
Hagia Sophia Mosque is mostly known as one of the most valuable and fascinating structures in the world of art and architecture. It deserves to enter to the collection of the rare works by challenging to the time. The walls of this beautiful piece of architecture are decorated with gorgeous mosaics. UNESCO accepts Hagia Sophia as The World Heritage because of architectural beauty.
** St. Sophia is a mosque and you need to remove your shoes and cover your head, shoulders, knees. It is advised to dress respectfully during visiting.
Lunch recommended in an old Ottoman House. You can taste delicious Turkish cuisine in a lovely setting.
Next, you will visit the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the residence of the sultans for almost three centuries. It is located on the promontory jutting out between the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. The construction of the Topkapi Palace was completed between 1465 and 1478. Being the imperial residence of the sultan, his court and harem, the palace was also the seat of government for the Ottoman Empire. .
Last, you will continue to explore ninety-two streets of the famous Grand Bazaar. The Grand Bazaar is the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of Turkish Handicrafts, Oriental carpets, rare jewels and inexpensive souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other. The streets are named according to the trades, such as gold and silver sellers, carpet sellers, booksellers, etc
At the end of your day, you will return to the port to embark your ship.
Includes:
- 1 full- day of private sightseeing in Istanbul
- Licensed professional guide in English language
- Air- conditioned luxury vehicle with professional driver
- Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary
- Bottled water provided throughout the tours
- Welcome package
- VAT tax
Not included:
- Gratuities to guide and driver
- Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary
- Personal expenses of the guests
- Recommended lunch
Istanbul Port - Byzantine Highlights- (Half Day Tour)
Istanbul Port - Byzantine Highlights- (Half Day Tour)
PORT: ISTANBUL
BYZANTINE HIGHLIGHTS
Half-Day Tour
Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your half day Byzantine Highlights tour.
First, your private tour of Istanbul begins with a visit to the Hippodrome, which was one of the largest chariot race grounds of the Byzantine Empire.
Hagia Sophia Mosque is mostly known as one of the most valuable and fascinating structures in the world of art and architecture. It deserves to enter to the collection of the rare works by challenging to the time. The walls of this beautiful piece of architecture are decorated with gorgeous mosaics. UNESCO accepts Hagia Sophia as The World Heritage because of architectural beauty.
** St. Sophia is a mosque and you need to remove your shoes and cover your head, shoulders, knees. It is advised to dress respectfully during visiting.
Then, you will visit the Underground Cistern, a fiant reservoir built by Justinian in the 6th century to bring water to the city to be used in the palaces. It is 70 meters wide and 140 meters long, with a capacity of 80,000 cubic meters of water. It has 336 beautiful columns that support the cistern, two of which are carved with the head of Medusa on the plinth.
Last, you continue to explore ninety- two streets of the famous Grand Bazaar, the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of Turkish Handicrafts, Oriental carpets, rare jewels and inexpensive souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other.
At the end your morning experience at 1:00pm, you will return to the port and embark your ship.
Includes:
- 1 half-day of private sightseeing in Istanbul
- Licensed professional guide in English language
- Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary
- Private Air-conditioned VIP vehicle with professional driver
- Bottled water provided throughout the tours
- Welcome Package
- VAT taxes
Not included:
- Gratuities to guide and driver
- Personal expenses of the guests
- Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary
Istanbul Port - Cultural Istanbul-(Full Day Tour)
Istanbul Port - Cultural Istanbul-(Full Day Tour)
PORT: ISTANBUL
CULTURAL ISTANBUL
Private Full-Day Tour
Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your private full- day sightseeing.
First, you will visit the Suleymaniye Mosque. Built by the great Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan on the order of Sultan Suleiman I (Suleiman the Magnificent), the Suleymaniye Mosque dominates the third hill of old Istanbul, and is strikingly graceful and less ornate than many other imperial mosques, thus lending itself to meditation and quiet reflection.
Next, you will visit the St. Saviour in Chora Mosque After St. Sophia Mosque, St.Saviour Chora Mosque is the most important Byzantine Church converted to a mosque in the city. It was built in the 11th century AD. The walls are decorated with breathtaking 14th century AD frescoes and mosaics. The mosaics relate to the life story of Virgin Mary and the life of Christ.
Lunch recommended at Hamdi Restaurant serving traditional Turkish Kebaps.
Then, you will discover the Egyptian Bazaar; the second largest covered market in Istanbul. It was constructed in the 1660s as part of the Yeni Camii (New Mosque) complex. The name derives from the herbs, and spices imported from or through Egypt. It is still the best place to buy Turkish delight, dried fruit, exotic spices and herbs.
You will continue to explore ninety-two streets of the famous Grand Bazaar. The Grand Bazaar is the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of Turkish Handicrafts, Oriental carpets, rare jewels and inexpensive souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other. The streets are named according to the trades, such as gold and silver sellers, carpet sellers, booksellers, etc.
Visit the 16th Century palace of the Sultan’s Grand Vizier, Ibrahim Pasa, which today houses the Turkish and Islamic Art Museum. The museum contains what many consider to be the finest collection of Islamic artifacts in the world. The museum is well laid out and contains more rare examples of ceramics, Koran cases, calligraphy, textiles, metalwork and illuminated manuscripts. Its antique carpet exhibit is renowned; the carpets, kilims and prayer rugs form one of the richest and oldest collections in the world.
At the end of your day, you will return to the port to embark your ship.
Includes:
- 1 full- day of private sightseeing in Istanbul
- Air- conditioned luxury VIP vehicle with a professional driver
- Licensed professional guide in English language
- Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary
- Bottled water provided on the vehicles.
- Welcome package
- VAT taxes
Not included:
- Gratuities to guide and driver
- Personal expenses of the guests
- Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary
- Recommended lunch
Istanbul Port - Ottoman Collection - (Half-Day Tour)
Istanbul Port - Ottoman Collection - (Half-Day Tour)
PORT: ISTANBUL
OTTOMAN COLLECTION
Half - Day Tour
Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for a half - day Ottoman Collection tour.
Your private tour of Istanbul begins with a visit to the Blue Mosque, completed in 1616, it is a triumph of harmony, proportion and elegance. The mosque was a part of a complex also including, tombs, fountains, kitchens, and a bath. The blue Iznik Tiles covering the walls have given the mosque its popular name, Blue Mosque.
Next, you will visit the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the residence of the sultans for almost three centuries. It is located on the promontory jutting out between the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. The construction of the Topkapi Palace was completed between 1465 and 1478. Being the imperial residence of the sultan, his court and harem, the palace was also the seat of government for the Ottoman Empire.
Last, you will continue to explore ninety- two streets of the famous Grand Bazaar. The Grand Bazaar is the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of Turkish Handicrafts, Oriental carpets, rare jewels and inexpensive souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other. The streets are named according to the trades, such as gold and silver sellers, carpet sellers, booksellers, etc
At the end of your morning visits approximately at 1:00pm, you will return to the port to embark your ship.
Includes:
- 1 half-day of private sightseeing in Istanbul
- Licensed professional guide in English language
- Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary
- Private Air-conditioned VIP vehicle with professional driver
- Welcome Package
- Bottled water provided throughout the tours
- VAT taxes
Not included:
- Gratuities to guide and driver
- Personal expenses of the guests
- Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary
Istanbul Port - Private Bosphorus Cruise (Half Day)
Istanbul Port - Private Bosphorus Cruise (Half Day)
You will transfer to pier to embark your private yacht for an exciting cruise on the Bosphorus, the narrow strait of water separating the Asian and European continents and the lifeblood of Istanbul. Passing along the shores of the Bosphorus you will view magnificent palaces, restored Ottoman villas, impressive fortresses and the waterside residences of Istanbul’s elite. Enjoy soft drinks tea and coffee on the motor yacht and see a different perspective of Istanbul, described by a Byzantine visitor in the 12th century as “the city of the world’s desire”. Cruise takes approximately 1½hours.
Then, you will visit the Grand Bazaar, the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of handicrafts, carpets, rare jewels and souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other. The merchants are selling everything from antiques, home wares, books, copper ware, ceramics, gold and inexpensive souvenirs. Venture into the hidden courtyards or hans, lookout for marble fountains and ornate kiosks. Streets are named according to the trades and the most oriental atmosphere in Istanbul is found in the bazaar.
At the end of your experience, approximately at 1:00pm, you will return to the port to embark your ship.
Inclusions:
- 1 half day of sightseeing in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver.
- Services of an officially licensed, English speaking guide throughout the tour program.
- Bosphorus cruise on a private yacht for 1½ hours.
- Bottled water provided through the tour.
- Welcome Package.
- VAT taxes.
Exclusions:
- Gratuities to the Guide & Driver
- At the discretion of the guests
- Personal expenses of the guests
Istanbul Port - Private Cooking Class in a Local Home with Market Visit
Istanbul Port - Private Cooking Class in a Local Home with Market Visit
First you will embark on a culinary tour in the Spice Market, you will stop at one of the most famous spice shops and taste the different spices that you will use during your class. After your culinary tour in the Spice Market, you will transfer to a local neighbourhood for a street market tour with our local chef.
You will enjoy the workshop for your cooking experience. You will cook some traditional Turkish food with a professional chef. You will have lunch with the food you prepared and have a chance to taste what you have cooked with local wine. Put your chef hats on and get cooking! Learn authentic recipes from local experts & chefs on a one of a kind private cooking class in Istanbul.
At the end of your experience, you will return to the port .
Inclusions:
- Private Cooking Class experience.
- A deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver
- Private chauffeur driven a/c deluxe vehicle throughout the program.
- Services of an officially licensed, English speaking guide throughout the tour program
- Bottled water provided throughout the tour.
- Welcome Package.
- VAT taxes.
- Gratuities to the Guide & Driver
- At the discretion of the guests
- Personal expenses of the guests
Istanbul Port - Private Culinary Walking Tour ( Half Day Tour)
Istanbul Port - Private Culinary Walking Tour ( Half Day Tour)
You will visit the Egyptian Bazaar, the second largest covered market in Istanbul. It was constructed in the 1660s as part of the Yeni Camii (New Mosque) complex. The name derives from the herbs, and spices imported from or through Egypt. It is still the best place to buy Turkish delight, dried fruit, exotic spices, herbs, nuts, Turkish apricots and cavier. Around the bazaar , you can also find the cheese shops, fruits and vegetables.
After your experience, you can have a break at one of the Turkish tea shops in the bazaar area and enjoy a Turkish or herbal tea.
At the end of your morning visits approximately at 1:00pm, you will return to the port.
Afternoon at leisure.
Inclusions:
- 1 half day of sightseeing in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver.
- Licensed professional guide in English language.
- Services of Sea Song Tour’s English speaking, officially licensed guide throughout the tour program.
- Entrance fees to all museums, parks, and historic sites as marked on the itinerary.
- Bottled water provided through the tour.
- Welcome Package.
- VAT taxes.
- Gratuities to the Guide & Driver
- At the discretion of the guests
- Personal expenses of the guests
Istanbul: Jewish Heritage Tour - 7 hours
Istanbul: Jewish Heritage Tour - 7 hours
An English speaking officially licenced lecturer/guide will meet the guests at the exit of the Istanbul cruise pier at 09:00 am, with a sign reading their names, for a private sightseeing tour of Istanbul.
First visit of the day is to the Galata Tower which was built in 1303 by immigrants from Genoa, Italy. While sipping your Turkish coffee there, you will be amazed at the spectacular view of the Golden Horn and the old buildings located on its shores depicting how Istanbul looked hundreds years ago.
The private tour will continue with a visit to the Neve Shalom and the oldest Synagogue in Istanbul- the Ahrida Synagogue, built around 1470 by Jewish immigrants from Macedonia.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant close to the sites.
The guests will be then taken to the Jewish Museum of Turkey. There is evidence that this building as a former synagogue existed in 1671. However the actual building was re-erected over its original foundations presumably in the early 19th Century. Zulfaris Synagogue has opened its doors as the Jewish museum in 2001. Continue to visit the Balat section, where the Star of David appears.
At the end of the day,a private lecturer/guide will take the guests back to the cruise pier.
Closed weekly days for sites/museums:
• Synagogues are closed on Saturdays and Sunday
* Neve Shalon Synagogue is closed on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays
• Zulfaris Synagogue (Jewish Museum) is closed on Saturdays.
* Please forward us a copy of your guests’ passport page with the photo, as required by the Chief Rabbi of Istanbul, to obtain His official approval for the synagogue visits in Turkey.
Added Value:
*Great introduction to Istanbul's Jewish history and culture *The tour covers the main highlights of the Jewish Heritage in Istanbul Tour Duration : 7 hoursTour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: Partial
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a cheaffeur driven a/c private vehicle, a licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
Istanbul: Edirne Highlights - 11 hours
Istanbul: Edirne Highlights - 11 hours
An English speaking private lecturer/guide will meet you at Istanbul cruise pier at 8 am and you will be driven to Edirne (approx. 3 hours), known formerly as Adrianople and was the second capital of the Ottoman Empire. Edirne is situated in Thrace, in westernmost Turkey on the border of Greece and is known for the Selimiye Mosque, built in the 16th century by the famous architect Sinan. The mosque's main structure comprises 18 small domes dominated by a huge central dome on 8 columns with 3 balconied minarets on 4 sides.
The tour will include visits to Selimiye & Complex (Vakiflar), Turkish - Islamic Works Museum The works are exhibited in the room numbered 14 in Dar - ül Tedris Madrasa in the courtyard of Selimiye Mosque with the Archaeological and Ethnographical Museums, In the hand works part, there is a village kitchen, Carpet, Kilim and Rush Mat weaving looms are located and other incredible mosques such as the Yildirim Mosque, Uc Serefeli Mosque and the Beyazit II Mosque.
Lunch will be served at local restaurant close to the sights, at your own cost.
There are also impressive caravanserais such as the Rustem Pasha and the lively restored Arasta and Bedesten bazaars. You may also see some beautiful Ottoman bridges in Edirne and around the area, such as Uzunkopru, which was also built by the architect Sinan. In the evening You will be transferred back to your cruise ship around 7 pm.
Added Value:
*Great introduction to the former Ottoman capital city of Edirne *The tour covers the main highlights of the city Tour Duration : 10-11 hoursTour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: Partial
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a cheaffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
Istanbul: Highlights - 7 hours
Istanbul: Highlights - 7 hours
The private tour program will start with the Roman Hippodrome that was a colossal stadium housing horse races around which the socio-political life of the Roman capital was centered. In its great days, it was 1575 feet long, 384 feet wide and held 100,000 spectators. It was the site of chariot racing, gladiator fights, circuses, inaugurations and triumphal parades.
The tour will continue with a visit to the Blue Mosque- the masterpiece of 17th century Ottoman Architecture, famous for its unique hand made original Iznik Tiles impressing the guests with their rich dominant blue colors and oriental patterns. They have become collectors’ items today, auctioned at celebrated houses like the Sotheby’s.
Next visit will be to the Topkapi Palace and its Imperial Treasury Section that was the center of Ottoman Empire’s Government Seat ruling most of the Middle East and the Eastern Europe from this palace for 500 years.
Lunch will be served at a recommended local/select restaurants close to the sites.
In the afternoon, visit the World famous Hagia Sophia (The Church of Divine Wisdom), one of the extraordinary masterpieces in the history of World architecture. When a previous church on this site was burned during the Nikka Revolt in 532, Justinian ordered his architect, Isidorus, to build a structure worthy of his empire. Hagia Sophia was completed in only five years and was dedicated on Christmas Day of 537. The building inspired countless generations by its innovations in weight support and construction techniques and what a dome it was: the popular belief was that ‘the dome was suspended from Heaven by an invisible golden chain’. In reality it was work of men, but a worldly simulator of the Heavens
Finally, visit the Grand Bazaar, more dazzling than any other oriental bazaar, built in 1461 and in service ever since. It contains 3,500 shops employing more than 20,000 people all under one roof. Everything imaginable in the world is for sale here, glittering gold and silver jewelry, antique tiles, leather, and souvenirs. Just seeing and experiencing this fascinating bazaar is a memorable experience.
At the end of today’s private tour, the guests will be transferred back to the cruise pier.
- Closed weekly days for sites/museums:
- St. Sophia is closed on Mondays
- Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays
- Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays and official holidays.
Highlights:
- Great introduction to Istanbul's history and culture
- The tour covers the main highlights of the city
Tour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: Partial
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a chauffeur driven a/c private vehicle, licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
Istanbul: Private Art Collections - 7 hours
Istanbul: Private Art Collections - 7 hours
An English speaking private lecturer/guide will meet you at at the Istanbul cruise pier at 9 am for departure by chauffeur driven a/c deluxe minivan, to start your private sightseeing tour of Istanbul.
Today’s private tour will start with a visit to the Istanbul Modern Museum of Art, situated at the shores of the Bosphorus. Istanbul Modern Museum of Art exhibits Turkey’s art heritage, and creates a platform for Turkish peoples’ creativity, dynamism, cultural identity and universal values.
A drive along the scenic Bosphorus Avenue will take you to the Family Villa of the Sabanci’s, the Internationally successful Turkish industrialist, now housing Mr. Sabanci’s lifetime collection of rare art pieces and celebrated paintings by Int’l and local masters, displayed in his former Family Home, recently donated to his Foundation as a Private Museum.
Lunch will be served at a local seafood restaurant by the shores of the Bosphorus (at your own discretion and cost).
After lunch, you will visit Private Museum of Lady Sadberk, donated to the nation by art-loving wife of Vehbi Koc, another leading industrialist. The beautiful, late-Ottoman wooden mansion contains a fabulous collection of Turkish arts and crafts, including jewelry, silverware, and Iznik ceramics of the classic period.
At the end of the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel/cruise pier by 4 pm.
Closed weekly days for sites/museums:
• Istanbul Modern Museum is closed on Mondays.
• Sabanci: Museum is closed on Mondays.
• Lady Sadberk Han Museum is closed on Wednesdays.
Added Value:
Tour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: Partial
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a chaeffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
Istanbul: Private Yacht Cruise along the Bosphorus - 7 hours
Istanbul: Private Yacht Cruise along the Bosphorus - 7 hours
An English speaking officially licensed lecturer/guide will meet the guests at the Istanbul cruise pier at 09:00 am for a private sightseeing tour of Istanbul.
Today’s tour will start with a visit to the Dolmabahce Palace- the largest and the finest example of Ottoman Baroque Architecture, a monument to the Ottomans’ westernization process in the 19th century. The Ottoman response to the overwhelming changes in the post-renaissance world was rapid westernization, initiated in the imperial lifestyle at first that gave way to the creation of a series of baroque-style European-fashion palaces on the shores of the Bosphorus.
You will then board a private boat for a cruise on the Bosphorus against the majestic skyline of Istanbul. Your private boat will cruise along the romantic Bosphorus visiting both the Europe Side and the Asia Side of Istanbul by the shores of local fishing villages, en route when it is possible to take memorable photos of the fascinating environments including the 15th century Rumelihisar? Fortress, the Summer Palaces of Lady Ottoman Sultans, and the historical Wooden Houses (Yalis) of famous Turkish families. The cruise ends on the Asian side of Istanbul.
Lunch will be served at a local seafood restaurants in Kanlica Village by the Bosphorus.
After lunch, you will proceed to the top of the Grand Camlica Hill, where you will enjoy the panoramic view of the European side of Istanbul.
Your private tour will continue with a visit to the Beylerbeyi Palace, the residence of the Ottoman Sultans in late 19th and early 20th century.
After this visit, a scenic drive on the Asian shores of the Bosphorus will take you to the Kanlica Village where you will have a taste of the famous “local yogurt” and “apple tea” in a local café by the Bosphorus.
At the end of the day, the lecturer/guide will take the guests back to the hotel/cruise ship by 4 pm.
Closed weekly days for sites/museums:
• Dolmabahçe Palace is closed on Mondays and Thursdays.
• Beylerbeyi Palace is closed on Mondays and Thursdays.
Added Value:
Tour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a chauffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
Istanbul: The 16th Century Masterpieces of Sinan the Architect - 7 hours
Istanbul: The 16th Century Masterpieces of Sinan the Architect - 7 hours
Your English speaking private guide will meet you at the Istanbul cruise pier at 9 am for a private full day sightseeing tour of Sinan the architect’s Istanbul buildings.
The private tour will start with a visit to Rustem Pasha Mosque. It was designed by famous “Sinan the Architect” for Grand Vizier Rustem Pasha. Rustem Pasha Mosque is famous for its exquisite Iznik tiles, set in beautiful floral and geometric designs, which cover not only the facade of the porch but also the walls and columns.
Continue to Mosque of Suleyman the Magnificent, which is the most important of all the imperial mosques in Istanbul. Suleyman the Magnificent and his wife are both buried here and the mosque is considered the most beautiful of the city’s Imperial mosques. It was built between 1550 and 1557 by Sinan, and is erected on the crest of a hill. The mosque is conspicuous by its great size, and has four minarets – one in each corner of the courtyard. The interior is also spectacular; the mihrab (prayer niche facing Mecca) and the mimber (pulpit) are finely carved in white marble, and there are magnificent stained glass windows.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant close to the sights (at your own discretion and cost).
In the afternoon, you will visit the Mihrimah Sultan Mosque located in the Edirnekapi neighborhood near the Byzantine city walls. Located on the peak of the Sixth Hill near the highest point of the city, the mosque is a prominent landmark in Istanbul. The Mihrimah Sultan Mosque was designed by "Sinan the Architect" for the favorite daughter of Suleiman the Magnificent, Princess Mihrimah.
Last visit of the day will be to the Sehzade Mosque which was commissioned by Sultan Suleiman in memory of his eldest son by Hürrem, Prince Mehmet, who died the age of 21. It was the first major commission by the Imperial Architect Sinan and was completed in 1548. It is considered by architectural historians as Sinan's first masterpiece of classical Ottoman architecture.
At the end of the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel/cruise ship by 4 pm.
Added Value:
*Great introduction to Sinan the Architect's masterpieces *The tour covers the masterpieces of Sinan the Architect in Istanbul Tour Duration : 7 hoursTour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: Partial
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a chauffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
Istanbul Full Day Sightseeing plus Private Bosphorus Cruise - 8 hours
Istanbul Full Day Sightseeing plus Private Bosphorus Cruise - 8 hours
Highlights/Description:
- Dolmabahce Palace
- Cruise on Bosphorus
- Rüstem Pasha Mosque
- Spice Bazaar
First, you will proceed to explore the 19th Century Dolmabahce Palace to experience its eclectic style of architecture with Baroque and Rococo touch. Compared to Topkap? Palace, Dolmabahçe is more westernized in its architectural style. You will enjoy its elaborate interior decoration.
You will next board a private motor yacht for a relaxing cruise on the Bosphorus, which has been a geopolitically important strait between Europe and Asia connecting the Black Sea to the Marmara Sea. You will pass by some magnificent palaces, old mansions and fortresses.
Next, you will see the Rüstem Pasha Mosque, which is among the city's architectural gems. This is the first example of the great Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan building a mosque to an octagonal plan. Beautifully proportioned and the interior is covered in some of the most exquisite Iznik tiles ever produced. The tiles, made at the height of Iznik's supremacy, have a good deal of the famous red color that was the envy of other tile makers (blue, yellow, white and green were easy colors to produce, but red was extraordinarily difficult.
You will explore the Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar). It was constructed in the 17th Century as a part of the New Mosque complex. This oriental market is the best place to buy Turkish delight, exotic spices, herbs, Turkish coffee and tea.
Before you will be transferred back to the port, your guide will take you to the backstreets of the Spice Bazaar to taste a traditional Ottoman drink: Boza (fermented millet) at the famous Vefa Bozacisi.
At the end of the tour, your private guide will transfer you back to your hotel or cruise pier.
Tour Duration: 8 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Officially licensed, private guide
- Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle
- 2 Hour Bosphorus Cruise with Private Yacht
- Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program
- Bottled water
- Welcome package
- Applicable taxes
- Meals, unless otherwise noted
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
Istanbul Half Day Sightseeing plus Private Bosphorus Cruise - 4 hours
Istanbul Half Day Sightseeing plus Private Bosphorus Cruise - 4 hours
Highlights/Description:
Your English-speaking, private guide will meet you at the cruise pier for your half day sightseeing tour of Istanbul.
First, you will proceed to explore the 19th Century Dolmabahce Palace to experience its eclectic style of architecture with Baroque and Rococo touch. Compared to Topkap? Palace, Dolmabahçe is more westernized in its architectural style. You will enjoy its elaborate interior decoration.
You will next board a private motor yacht for a relaxing cruise on the Bosphorus, which has been a geopolitically important strait between Europe and Asia connecting the Black Sea to the Marmara Sea. You will pass by some magnificent palaces, old mansions and fortresses.
At the end of the tour, your private guide will transfer you back to your hotel or cruise pier.
Tour Duration: 4 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Officially licensed, private guide
- Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle
- 2 Hour Bosphorus Cruise with Private Yacht
- Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program
- Bottled water
- Welcome package
- Applicable taxes
- Meals, unless otherwise noted
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
Jewish Heritage Half Day Tour (Istanbul) - 4 hours
Jewish Heritage Half Day Tour (Istanbul) - 4 hours
Highlights/Description:
- Galata Quarter
- Ahrida Synagogue
- Jewish Museum
- Grand Bazaar
Your English-speaking, private guide will meet you at the cruise pier for your half day sightseeing tour of Istanbul.
Your private tour will start with a visit to the old Galata Quarter, a Jewish quarter for centuries. Visit to the Galata Tower, which was built in 1303 by immigrants from Genoa, Italy. A medieval stone tower in the heart of Pera quarter just to the north of the Golden Horn. One of the city's most striking landmarks, it is a high, cone-capped cylinder that dominates the skyline and affords a panoramic vista of Old Istanbul and its environs. You will enjoy the spectacular view of the city.
Next visit will be to the Ottoman Baroque style Ahrida Synagogue originally built in the 15th century and is the earliest synagogue in Istanbul. The original 20-foot long oak bimah (teva), shaped either like Noah’s Ark or, like the Ottoman ship which brought the Sephardim to freedom from Spain to Turkey, can still be seen.
Your private tour will continue with a visit to the Jewish Museum of Turkey, which is housed in the former Zulfaris Synagogue, aims to “collect, preserve, exhibit, interpret and disseminate knowledge about the cultural heritage of the Turkish Jews.” It captures 700 years of amiable relations between Jews and Turks, beginning in 1326 with the Ottoman conquest of Bursa. The building itself dates from the early 19th century, although there is evidence of a Synagogue in the same spot in the 17th century. The Synagogue functioned as a place of worship for over a century, and was reopened as the Quincentenial Foundation Museum of Turkish Jews (Jewish Museum of Turkey) in 2001.The Museum contains various exhibits relating to Jewish history in Istanbul and is fitted with information panels, maps and some touch screen information booths.
Lastly visit the famous Grand Bazaar, the largest and the oldest covered Bazaar in this part of the world with more than 4000 small shops. You will see a great variety of Turkish handicrafts, handmade oriental carpets, jewelry and many souvenirs within the old market.
At the end of your tour, you will be transferred back to the cruise pier.
Tour Duration: 4 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning or Afternoon (not available on the Sabbath or Jewish Holidays)
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Officially licensed, private guide
- Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle
- Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program
- Bottled water
- Welcome package
- Applicable taxes
- Meals, unless otherwise noted
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
Old City of Istanbul Full Day Tour - 8 hours
Old City of Istanbul Full Day Tour - 8 hours
Highlights/Description:
- Roman Hippodrome and Egyptian Obelisk
- Blue Mosque
- Haghia Sophia
- Topkapi Palace
- Basilica Cistern
- Grand Bazaar
Your English-speaking, private guide will meet you at the cruise pier for your full day sightseeing tour of Istanbul with a deluxe air-conditioned mini-van.
You will first visit the Roman Hippodrome, along with the Egyptian Obelisk, and then proceed to the Blue Mosque, which was built in between 1609-1616. The Blue tiles cover the walls have given its popular name “Blue Mosque”.
Next visit will be to one of the great monumental buildings of the world Haghia Sophia that was built by Emperor Justinian in 537. It has remained as the greatest church until the conquest of Constantinople in 1453 by the Ottoman Sultan Mehmet II. The great dome and its gallery were covered with gold mosaics and still survive.
Proceed to the magnificent Topkap? Palace, which has been the residence of the Ottoman Sultans for almost four centuries. Besides being the residence of the Sultan and his family, Topkap? was also the seat of the Ottoman Divan. 5000 people lived in the palace. You will see the Sultan’s Treasury and the Holy Relics exhibition.
You will continue to the Underground Cistern (Basilica Cistern), which is the most unusual structure in the city. This was a vital part of defense system of the city as a big water reservoir, which can hold 18 million gallons of water.
Lastly visit the famous Grand Bazaar, the largest and the oldest covered Bazaar in this part of the world with more than 4000 small shops. You will see a great variety of Turkish handicrafts, handmade oriental carpets, jewelry and many souvenirs within the old market.
Before you are transferred back to your hotel or the cruise pier, you will visit the best baklava factory to taste this awesome dessert.
At the end of your tour, you will be transferred back to the cruise pier.
Tour Duration: 8 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Officially licensed, private guide
- Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle
- Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program
- Bottled water
- Welcome package
- Applicable taxes
- Meals, unless otherwise noted
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
Old City of Istanbul Half Day Tour - 4 hours
Old City of Istanbul Half Day Tour - 4 hours
Highlights/Description:
- Roman Hippodrome
- Egyptian Obelisk
- Blue Mosque
- Haghia Sophia –OR– Topkapi Palace
- Grand Bazaar
Your English-speaking, private guide will meet you at the cruise pier for your half day sightseeing tour of Istanbul with a deluxe air-conditioned mini-van.
You will first visit the Roman Hippodrome, along with the Egyptian Obelisk, and then proceed to the Blue Mosque, which was built in between 1609-1616. The Blue tiles cover the walls have given its popular name “Blue Mosque”.
*Next visit will be to one of the great monumental buildings of the world Haghia Sophia that was built by Emperor Justinian in 537. It has remained as the greatest church until the conquest of Constantinople in 1453 by the Ottoman Sultan Mehmet II. The great dome and its gallery were covered with gold mosaics and still survive.
OR
*Next visit will be to the magnificent Topkap? Palace, which has been the residence of the Ottoman Sultans for almost four centuries. Besides being the residence of the Sultan and his family, Topkap? was also the seat of the Ottoman Divan. 5000 people lived in the palace. You will see the Sultan’s Treasury and the Holy Relics exhibition.
Lastly visit the famous Grand Bazaar, the largest and the oldest covered Bazaar in this part of the world with more than 4000 small shops. You will see a great variety of Turkish handicrafts, handmade oriental carpets, jewelry and many souvenirs within the old market.
At the end of your tour, you will be transferred back to the cruise pier.
* You have the option to choose Topkapi Palace or St. Sophia
Tour Duration: 4 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Officially licensed, private guide
- Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle
- Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program
- Bottled water
- Welcome package
- Applicable taxes
- Meals, unless otherwise noted
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
Istanbul - At Your Leisure Tour - 8 Hours (Provided by Travelive)
Istanbul - At Your Leisure Tour - 8 Hours (Provided by Travelive)
At Your Leisure Option: Please see below for details on this option.
You decide where to go and what to see.
Included:
- Private Luxury Sedan with English-Speaking guide and driver for 8 hours
- Bottled water in the vehicle
- Gratuities to guide and driver**
Excluded:
- Cost of meals and refreshments other than bottled water
- Entrance fees
- Items of personal nature
**Gratuities have been prepaid. Additional gratuities are at guest’s discretion.
Highlights of Istanbul - 8 Hours
Highlights of Istanbul - 8 Hours
Highlights:
- Egyptian Obelisk and Hippodrome Square
- Blue Mosque
- Topkapi Palace including Harem and Treasury
- Temple of St. Sophia
- Grand Bazaar & Nuru Osmaniye District
Tour can operate: (morning or afternoon, etc) Full day
Wheelchair Accessible: (Yes or No) Yes
Physical Activity Level: (Light, Moderate, Heavy) Moderate
Inclusions: (include any info regarding transportation to/from the Cruise ship in this section)
- Transportation by A/C non-smoking deluxe vehicle
- Service of an English-speaking professional private tour guide throughout the program
- All entrance and parking fees for the sightseeing
- Complimentary beverages on vehicle throughout the journey
- All taxes and service charges
- Meals and beverages
- Honorary gratuities for guide and driver
- Personal expenses
Istanbul Port - Treasures of Istanbul (Full Day Tour)
Istanbul Port - Treasures of Istanbul (Full Day Tour)
PORT: ISTANBUL
TREASURES OF ISTANBUL
Full-Day Tour
Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your full- day of private sightseeing.
Your private tour of Istanbul begins with a visit to the Hippodrome, which was one of the largest chariot race grounds of the Byzantine Empire. You will take a short walk to the Blue Mosque, completed in 1616, it is a triumph of harmony, proportion and elegance. The mosque was a part of a complex also including, tombs, fountains, kitchens, and a bath. The blue Iznik Tiles covering the walls have given the mosque its popular name, Blue Mosque.
Hagia Sophia Mosque is mostly known as one of the most valuable and fascinating structures in the world of art and architecture. It deserves to enter to the collection of the rare works by challenging to the time. The walls of this beautiful piece of architecture are decorated with gorgeous mosaics. UNESCO accepts Hagia Sophia as The World Heritage because of architectural beauty.
** St. Sophia is a mosque and you need to remove your shoes and cover your head, shoulders, knees. It is advised to dress respectfully during visiting.
Lunch recommended in an old Ottoman House. You can taste delicious Turkish cuisine in a lovely setting.
Next, you will visit the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the residence of the sultans for almost three centuries. It is located on the promontory jutting out between the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. The construction of the Topkapi Palace was completed between 1465 and 1478. Being the imperial residence of the sultan, his court and harem, the palace was also the seat of government for the Ottoman Empire. .
Last, you will continue to explore ninety-two streets of the famous Grand Bazaar. The Grand Bazaar is the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of Turkish Handicrafts, Oriental carpets, rare jewels and inexpensive souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other. The streets are named according to the trades, such as gold and silver sellers, carpet sellers, booksellers, etc
At the end of your day, you will return to the port to embark your ship.
Includes:
- 1 full- day of private sightseeing in Istanbul
- Licensed professional guide in English language
- Air- conditioned luxury vehicle with professional driver
- Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary
- Bottled water provided throughout the tours
- Welcome package
- VAT tax
Not included:
- Gratuities to guide and driver
- Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary
- Personal expenses of the guests
- Recommended lunch
Istanbul Port - Byzantine Highlights- (Half Day Tour)
Istanbul Port - Byzantine Highlights- (Half Day Tour)
PORT: ISTANBUL
BYZANTINE HIGHLIGHTS
Half-Day Tour
Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your half day Byzantine Highlights tour.
First, your private tour of Istanbul begins with a visit to the Hippodrome, which was one of the largest chariot race grounds of the Byzantine Empire.
Hagia Sophia Mosque is mostly known as one of the most valuable and fascinating structures in the world of art and architecture. It deserves to enter to the collection of the rare works by challenging to the time. The walls of this beautiful piece of architecture are decorated with gorgeous mosaics. UNESCO accepts Hagia Sophia as The World Heritage because of architectural beauty.
** St. Sophia is a mosque and you need to remove your shoes and cover your head, shoulders, knees. It is advised to dress respectfully during visiting.
Then, you will visit the Underground Cistern, a fiant reservoir built by Justinian in the 6th century to bring water to the city to be used in the palaces. It is 70 meters wide and 140 meters long, with a capacity of 80,000 cubic meters of water. It has 336 beautiful columns that support the cistern, two of which are carved with the head of Medusa on the plinth.
Last, you continue to explore ninety- two streets of the famous Grand Bazaar, the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of Turkish Handicrafts, Oriental carpets, rare jewels and inexpensive souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other.
At the end your morning experience at 1:00pm, you will return to the port and embark your ship.
Includes:
- 1 half-day of private sightseeing in Istanbul
- Licensed professional guide in English language
- Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary
- Private Air-conditioned VIP vehicle with professional driver
- Bottled water provided throughout the tours
- Welcome Package
- VAT taxes
Not included:
- Gratuities to guide and driver
- Personal expenses of the guests
- Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary
Istanbul Port - Cultural Istanbul-(Full Day Tour)
Istanbul Port - Cultural Istanbul-(Full Day Tour)
PORT: ISTANBUL
CULTURAL ISTANBUL
Private Full-Day Tour
Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your private full- day sightseeing.
First, you will visit the Suleymaniye Mosque. Built by the great Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan on the order of Sultan Suleiman I (Suleiman the Magnificent), the Suleymaniye Mosque dominates the third hill of old Istanbul, and is strikingly graceful and less ornate than many other imperial mosques, thus lending itself to meditation and quiet reflection.
Next, you will visit the St. Saviour in Chora Mosque After St. Sophia Mosque, St.Saviour Chora Mosque is the most important Byzantine Church converted to a mosque in the city. It was built in the 11th century AD. The walls are decorated with breathtaking 14th century AD frescoes and mosaics. The mosaics relate to the life story of Virgin Mary and the life of Christ.
Lunch recommended at Hamdi Restaurant serving traditional Turkish Kebaps.
Then, you will discover the Egyptian Bazaar; the second largest covered market in Istanbul. It was constructed in the 1660s as part of the Yeni Camii (New Mosque) complex. The name derives from the herbs, and spices imported from or through Egypt. It is still the best place to buy Turkish delight, dried fruit, exotic spices and herbs.
You will continue to explore ninety-two streets of the famous Grand Bazaar. The Grand Bazaar is the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of Turkish Handicrafts, Oriental carpets, rare jewels and inexpensive souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other. The streets are named according to the trades, such as gold and silver sellers, carpet sellers, booksellers, etc.
Visit the 16th Century palace of the Sultan’s Grand Vizier, Ibrahim Pasa, which today houses the Turkish and Islamic Art Museum. The museum contains what many consider to be the finest collection of Islamic artifacts in the world. The museum is well laid out and contains more rare examples of ceramics, Koran cases, calligraphy, textiles, metalwork and illuminated manuscripts. Its antique carpet exhibit is renowned; the carpets, kilims and prayer rugs form one of the richest and oldest collections in the world.
At the end of your day, you will return to the port to embark your ship.
Includes:
- 1 full- day of private sightseeing in Istanbul
- Air- conditioned luxury VIP vehicle with a professional driver
- Licensed professional guide in English language
- Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary
- Bottled water provided on the vehicles.
- Welcome package
- VAT taxes
Not included:
- Gratuities to guide and driver
- Personal expenses of the guests
- Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary
- Recommended lunch
Istanbul Port - Ottoman Collection - (Half-Day Tour)
Istanbul Port - Ottoman Collection - (Half-Day Tour)
PORT: ISTANBUL
OTTOMAN COLLECTION
Half - Day Tour
Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for a half - day Ottoman Collection tour.
Your private tour of Istanbul begins with a visit to the Blue Mosque, completed in 1616, it is a triumph of harmony, proportion and elegance. The mosque was a part of a complex also including, tombs, fountains, kitchens, and a bath. The blue Iznik Tiles covering the walls have given the mosque its popular name, Blue Mosque.
Next, you will visit the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the residence of the sultans for almost three centuries. It is located on the promontory jutting out between the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. The construction of the Topkapi Palace was completed between 1465 and 1478. Being the imperial residence of the sultan, his court and harem, the palace was also the seat of government for the Ottoman Empire.
Last, you will continue to explore ninety- two streets of the famous Grand Bazaar. The Grand Bazaar is the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of Turkish Handicrafts, Oriental carpets, rare jewels and inexpensive souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other. The streets are named according to the trades, such as gold and silver sellers, carpet sellers, booksellers, etc
At the end of your morning visits approximately at 1:00pm, you will return to the port to embark your ship.
Includes:
- 1 half-day of private sightseeing in Istanbul
- Licensed professional guide in English language
- Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary
- Private Air-conditioned VIP vehicle with professional driver
- Welcome Package
- Bottled water provided throughout the tours
- VAT taxes
Not included:
- Gratuities to guide and driver
- Personal expenses of the guests
- Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary
Istanbul Port - Private Bosphorus Cruise (Half Day)
Istanbul Port - Private Bosphorus Cruise (Half Day)
You will transfer to pier to embark your private yacht for an exciting cruise on the Bosphorus, the narrow strait of water separating the Asian and European continents and the lifeblood of Istanbul. Passing along the shores of the Bosphorus you will view magnificent palaces, restored Ottoman villas, impressive fortresses and the waterside residences of Istanbul’s elite. Enjoy soft drinks tea and coffee on the motor yacht and see a different perspective of Istanbul, described by a Byzantine visitor in the 12th century as “the city of the world’s desire”. Cruise takes approximately 1½hours.
Then, you will visit the Grand Bazaar, the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of handicrafts, carpets, rare jewels and souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other. The merchants are selling everything from antiques, home wares, books, copper ware, ceramics, gold and inexpensive souvenirs. Venture into the hidden courtyards or hans, lookout for marble fountains and ornate kiosks. Streets are named according to the trades and the most oriental atmosphere in Istanbul is found in the bazaar.
At the end of your experience, approximately at 1:00pm, you will return to the port to embark your ship.
Inclusions:
- 1 half day of sightseeing in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver.
- Services of an officially licensed, English speaking guide throughout the tour program.
- Bosphorus cruise on a private yacht for 1½ hours.
- Bottled water provided through the tour.
- Welcome Package.
- VAT taxes.
Exclusions:
- Gratuities to the Guide & Driver
- At the discretion of the guests
- Personal expenses of the guests
Istanbul Port - Private Cooking Class in a Local Home with Market Visit
Istanbul Port - Private Cooking Class in a Local Home with Market Visit
First you will embark on a culinary tour in the Spice Market, you will stop at one of the most famous spice shops and taste the different spices that you will use during your class. After your culinary tour in the Spice Market, you will transfer to a local neighbourhood for a street market tour with our local chef.
You will enjoy the workshop for your cooking experience. You will cook some traditional Turkish food with a professional chef. You will have lunch with the food you prepared and have a chance to taste what you have cooked with local wine. Put your chef hats on and get cooking! Learn authentic recipes from local experts & chefs on a one of a kind private cooking class in Istanbul.
At the end of your experience, you will return to the port .
Inclusions:
- Private Cooking Class experience.
- A deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver
- Private chauffeur driven a/c deluxe vehicle throughout the program.
- Services of an officially licensed, English speaking guide throughout the tour program
- Bottled water provided throughout the tour.
- Welcome Package.
- VAT taxes.
- Gratuities to the Guide & Driver
- At the discretion of the guests
- Personal expenses of the guests
Istanbul Port - Private Culinary Walking Tour ( Half Day Tour)
Istanbul Port - Private Culinary Walking Tour ( Half Day Tour)
You will visit the Egyptian Bazaar, the second largest covered market in Istanbul. It was constructed in the 1660s as part of the Yeni Camii (New Mosque) complex. The name derives from the herbs, and spices imported from or through Egypt. It is still the best place to buy Turkish delight, dried fruit, exotic spices, herbs, nuts, Turkish apricots and cavier. Around the bazaar , you can also find the cheese shops, fruits and vegetables.
After your experience, you can have a break at one of the Turkish tea shops in the bazaar area and enjoy a Turkish or herbal tea.
At the end of your morning visits approximately at 1:00pm, you will return to the port.
Afternoon at leisure.
Inclusions:
- 1 half day of sightseeing in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver.
- Licensed professional guide in English language.
- Services of Sea Song Tour’s English speaking, officially licensed guide throughout the tour program.
- Entrance fees to all museums, parks, and historic sites as marked on the itinerary.
- Bottled water provided through the tour.
- Welcome Package.
- VAT taxes.
- Gratuities to the Guide & Driver
- At the discretion of the guests
- Personal expenses of the guests
Kusadasi: Ancient Ephesus Tour - 7 hours
Kusadasi: Ancient Ephesus Tour - 7 hours
An English speaking lecturer/guide will meet the guests at the exit of the cruise pier in KUSADASI.
After a short drive to Ephesus, the guests experience their private tour of this fascinating historical site. First, a visit will be made to the remarkable Greco-Roman archeological city of Ancient Ephesus, that flourished as a prominent cultural city and seaport between 600 BC and 500 AD.
The walking tour will begin along the Royal Road also known as the Arcadian Way, the 4th century white marble chariot thoroughfare whose most striking sight today is the two-story Library of Celsus. Uniquely beautiful, the Library once housed 12,000 scrolls of papyrus manuscripts making it the second largest library in the ancient world after the one in Alexandria, Egypt. The walk along the Royal Road also takes the visitors past the remains of some of the ancient city’s major civic buildings and temples as you move toward the Ephesus Theater from which St. Paul once preached to the Pagan Ephesians. The theater, seating 25,000 has exceptional acoustics and is still in use today for concerts and theatrical performances in summertime.
Then move to see the ongoing excavations of the Greco-Roman places-the “Elite Yamac Homes of Antiquity” (Terrace Houses) with their magnificent mosaics and frescoes.
From here, the guests will proceed to the small, but distinguished and rightly famous Ephesus Museum with unique examples of the very best Greco-Roman sculpture in the world, and with an exciting new display of Medical instruments from that era.
Finally, drive up the mountainside to visit to the so-called House of the Virgin Mary, a lovely chapel set in the hills behind Ephesus, said by some to be the last home of the Virgin Mary, where St. Paul took her for her safety away from the Pagan Ephesians.
At the end of the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel or to your cruise ship.
Added Value:
*Great introduction to Greco-Roman city of Ephesus' history and culture *The tour covers the main highlights of the ancient city Tour Duration : 6-7 hoursTour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: Partial
Physical Activity Level: High
Included: Transportation by a cheaffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
Kusadasi: Priene Day Tour - 7 hours
Kusadasi: Priene Day Tour - 7 hours
The guests will be met by a lecturer/guide at the exit of the pier in KUSADASI and drive south to visit Priene.
This ancient city is not especially large, but has an unusual intimacy and charm, in part because so many historical private houses have survived to this day. All the monuments you will see, date from the Hellenistic period, and all of them are aligned according to a strict grid-plan of the kind developed by Hippodamos, a native of neighboring Miletus. The monuments include the Temple of Zeus, a council chamber, and a small amphi-theatre. Yet Priene’s greatest treasure is its Temple of Athena, which was considered the masterpiece of the architect Pytheos who also designed the Mausoleum at Halicarnassos (Bodrum) known to be one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
After exploring Priene, the guests will cross the broad flood-plain of the river Maeander to continue to Miletus. This was once a major port but silt carried down by the River Meander blocked its harbor centuries ago. The ancient harbor is now several miles from the sea. The town is laid out according to a grid-plan designed by Hippodamos, which centers on three spacious agoras (marketplaces) today. The most striking features of the site today are the Baths of Faustina and the massive Roman Theatre.
A paved Sacred Way leads from Miletus to Dydima, not a classic town but rather a sacred precinct centering on a colossal Temple of Apollo surrounded by a double colonnade of no less than 108 huge columns. Work on the temple continued for 500 years, but its design was so ambitious that, when work was abandoned in the 4th C. AD, it was still unfinished. Even unfinished and in ruins, the temple at Dydima remains to be one of the most awe-inspiring antique monuments to be found anywhere around the Eastern Mediterranean.
At the end of the tour, the guests will be escorted back to their hotel or to the pier in KUSADASI.
Added Value:
*The tour covers the main highlights of Priene, Miletus and Didyma Tour Duration : 7 hoursTour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a chaeffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
Kusadasi: The Greco-Roman City of Ephesus & the Wine-making Village of Sirince - 7 hours
Kusadasi: The Greco-Roman City of Ephesus & the Wine-making Village of Sirince - 7 hours
At 8:30 am, an English speaking private lecturer/guide will meet and greet you outside the Bonded Area of the Kusadasi cruise pier. You will then be escorted to your chauffeur driven private deluxe air-conditioned vehicle, for a comfortable ride of about half an hour to the remarkable Greco-Roman archaeological site of Ancient Ephesus. Dating back to the 11th century B.C., it has been painstakingly excavated and restored and is one of the world’s most fascinating sites of antiquity. Ephesus flourished as a prominent city and seaport between 600 B.C. and 500 A.D. We will begin our private walking tour along Royal Road also known as the Arcadian Way, a 4th century white marble chariot thoroughfare whose most striking sight is the two-story Library of Celsus.
Uniquely beautiful, with its restored facade now the famed symbol of Ephesus, the Library once housed 12,000 scrolls of papyrus manuscripts making it the 2nd largest in the ancient world after the library in Alexandria, Egypt. Your walk along the Royal Road will also take you past the remains of some of the ancient city’s major civic buildings and temples as you move toward the Ephesus Theater from which St. Paul once preached to the Ephesians. The theater, seating 25,000 has exceptional acoustics and is still in use today for concerts and theatrical performances.
You will also visit the ongoing excavations of the Greco Roman PALACES the ''ELITE YAMAC HOMES OF ANTIQUITY'' (Terrace Houses) with their magnificent mosaics and frescoes being restored by archeologists as you visit the site.
Next visit will be to the old Greco-Turkish Village of SIRINCE, located approximately 18 miles away from the Kusadasi pier. The town itself houses about hundreds of old local Greek homes which have been superbly renovated and opened to the public.. The town also houses an authentic local market where different agricultural products are sold.
Following lunch (at your own cost) at the celebrated local Bizim Ev (meaning “Our House”) Restaurant in Sirince, you will stop by the famous wine cellar of this village, to be welcomed by the owner, and will taste his white or red wines, produced in the same style as in the old days from grapes at the vast vineyards of the Aegean Region.
You will then be returned to Kusadasi where you may explore or shop at the charming local marketplace, while your guide will escort and assist you until you wish to return to the pier to board your ship by 4 pm.
Added Value:
*Great introduction to Ephesus and Sirince *The tour covers Ephesus and the wine-making village of Sirince Tour Duration : 7 hoursTour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a chauffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
Ephesus Full Day Tour - 8 hours
Ephesus Full Day Tour - 8 hours
Highlights/Description:
- Ancient Ephesus
- Library of Celsus
- Excavations of Terrace Houses
- House of the Virgin Mary
You will proceed to the remarkable Greco-Roman site of Ancient Ephesus. Dating back to the 11th century B.C., it has been excavated and restored since 1870s. It is one of the world’s most fascinating sites of antiquity. Ephesus flourished as a prominent city and seaport between 600 B.C. and 500 A.D.
We will start our private walking tour through Royal Road also known as the Arcadian Way, 4th century white marble chariot road that leads to the most striking building, which is the two-storey Library of Celsus. Beautifully restored with its restored facade now the famed symbol of Ephesus, The Library once housed 12,000 scrolls of papyrus and parchment manuscripts, making it the 2nd largest in the ancient world after the library in Alexandria in Egypt.
Ephesus Theater, seating 25,000 has exceptional acoustics and is still in use today for concerts and theatrical performances.
You will also visit the ongoing excavations of the Greco Roman Houses of Ephesian Aristocrats (known as Terrace Houses) with their magnificent mosaics and frescoes being restored by archeologists as you visit the site. In addition to the historic monuments, your excursion will also include a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, a lovely little chapel set in the hills behind Ephesus believed to be Virgin Mary’s last home.
At the end of your tour, you will be transferred back to the cruise pier.
Tour Duration: 8 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate to Heavy
Net Price: Per Person € 201.50 based on 2 guests
Inclusions:
- Officially licensed, private guide
- Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle
- Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program
- Bottled water
- Welcome package
- Applicable taxes
- Meals, unless otherwise noted
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
Ephesus & Sirince Full Day Tour - 8 hours
Ephesus & Sirince Full Day Tour - 8 hours
Highlights/Description:
- Ancient Ephesus
- Sirince
- Home-style lunch in a local village
- Visit to a wine house
You will proceed to the remarkable Greco-Roman site of Ancient Ephesus. Dating back to the 11th century B.C., it has been excavated and restored since 1870s. It is one of the world’s most fascinating sites of antiquity. Ephesus flourished as a prominent city and seaport between 600 B.C. and 500 A.D. We will start our private walking tour through Royal Road also known as the Arcadian Way, 4th century white marble chariot road that leads to the most striking building, which is the two-storey Library of Celsus.
Beautifully restored with its restored facade now the famed symbol of Ephesus, The Library once housed 12,000 scrolls of papyrus and parchment manuscripts, making it the 2nd largest in the ancient world after the library in Alexandria in Egypt. Ephesus Theater, seating 25,000 has exceptional acoustics and is still in use today for concerts and theatrical performances.
You will also visit the ongoing excavations of the Greco Roman Houses of Ephesian Aristocrats (known as Terrace Houses) with their magnificent mosaics and frescoes being restored by archeologists as you visit the site.
In addition to the historic monuments, your excursion will also include a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, a lovely little chapel set in the hills behind Ephesus believed to be Virgin Mary’s last home.
At the end of your tour, you will be transferred back to the cruise pier.
Tour Duration: 8 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate to Heavy
Net Price: Per Person € 188.50 based on 2 guests
Inclusions:
- Officially licensed, private guide
- Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle
- Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program
- Bottled water
- Welcome package
- Applicable taxes
- Meals, unless otherwise noted
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
Ephesus Half Day Tour - 4 hours
Ephesus Half Day Tour - 4 hours
Highlights/Description:
- Ancient Ephesus
- Library of Celsus
- The Library
- Ephesus Theatre
Your English speaking guide will meet you at the Kusadasi cruise pier for your tour in Ephesus.
You will proceed to the remarkable Greco-Roman site of Ancient Ephesus. Dating back to the 11th century B.C., it has been excavated and restored since 1870s. It is one of the world’s most fascinating sites of antiquity. Ephesus flourished as a prominent city and seaport between 600 B.C. and 500 A.D. We will start our private walking tour through Royal Road also known as the Arcadian Way, 4th century white marble chariot road that leads to the most striking building, which is the two-storey Library of Celsus.
Beautifully restored with its restored facade now the famed symbol of Ephesus, The Library once housed 12,000 scrolls of papyrus and parchment manuscripts, making it the 2nd largest in the ancient world after the library in Alexandria in Egypt. Ephesus Theater, seating 25,000 has exceptional acoustics and is still in use today for concerts and theatrical performances.
At the end of your tour, you will be transferred back to the cruise pier.
Tour Duration: 4 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate to Heavy
Net Price: Per Person € 130.00 based on 2 guests
Inclusions:
- Officially licensed, private guide
- Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle
- Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program
- Bottled water
- Welcome package
- Applicable taxes
- Meals, unless otherwise noted
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
Ephesus 3D Experience Full Day Tour – 6 hours
Ephesus 3D Experience Full Day Tour – 6 hours
Ephesus 3D tour is an extraordinary experience offering an innovative way to visit Ancient Ephesus. Our 3D virtual tour brings you inside the site with accurate replicas of Ephesus, the Celcus Library, Great Theatre and more! By using this technology, you will see reconstructed major sites of the Ancient city. During this experience, your guide will further explain 7 sites; Odeon Theatre, Curetes, Trajan Fountain, Hadrian Gate, Library of Celcus, Commercial Agora and Arcadia way with a visual show of the Ancient Romans featuring live actors! Based on cutting edge technology and the master work of artists - our virtual tour is incredibly accurate.
Our team of artists, technicians and writers create each 3D tour with a great emphasis on colors, shapes, symmetry, sizes, compositions and proportions. Every element of the Ephesus 3D virtual tour is designed to convey the true atmosphere of the site.
Tour Duration: 6 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Net Price: Per Person € 130.00 based on 2 guests
Inclusions:
- English-speaking guide
- Entrance fees and applicable taxes
- Transfers to/from Kusadasi Port
- Lunch at a typical Village Restaurant, included unlimited soft drinks and wine
Not Included: - Gratuities to driver and guide
- Personal expenses
Ephesus: Jewel of Roman Archeology - 6 Hours
Ephesus: Jewel of Roman Archeology - 6 Hours
Highlights:
- Temple of Artemis
- Ephesus including Marble Road, Temple of Hadrian, Terrace Houses, Library of Celsus and Great Theater of Ephesus
- House of Virgin Mary
Tour can operate: (morning or afternoon, etc) Full day
Wheelchair Accessible: (Yes or No) YES
Physical Activity Level: (Light, Moderate, Heavy) Moderate
Inclusions: (include any info regarding transportation to/from the Cruise ship in this section)
- Transportation by A/C non-smoking deluxe vehicle
- Service of an English-speaking professional private tour guide throughout the program
- All entrance and parking fees for the sightseeing
- Complimentary beverages on vehicle throughout the journey
- All taxes and service charges
- Meals and beverages
- Honorary gratuities for guide and driver
- Personal expenses
Kusadasi Port - The Glories of Ephesus (Full Day Tour)
Kusadasi Port - The Glories of Ephesus (Full Day Tour)
PORT: KUSADASI
GLORIES OF EPHESUS
Full-Day Tour
Arrive in Kusadasi, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your full- day tour in Ephesus.
First, you will visit the House of Virgin Mary, where the Virgin is said to have lived the last years of her life. The building was rediscovered in the late 19th century by Lazartis from Smyrna based on the vision of a German nun. The site is officially declared a shrine of the Roman Catholic Church and visited by Pope Paul VI in 1967, Pope John Paul II in 1979 and Pope Benedict XVI in 2007.
Then, you will drive to Ephesus, enter and view the Odeon Theatre, where state affairs and concerts were held. Walk down the marble walkway and visit the Hadrian Temple. It was dedicated in 118 AD to Hadrian, Artemis, and the people of Ephesus but greatly reconstructed in the 4th century. This impressive Corinthian style temple has beautiful reliefs on the porch. According to the belief of Ephesians, the Medusa head on the porch, would protect the city from its enemies.
A special visit will be made to the spectacular Terrace Houses (Villas) located on top of the hill within the Ephesus. They have a fantastic view of the entire city of Ephesus. They were inhabited by wealthy Ephesians, and are finely decorated with incredible examples of mosaics and frescos. The Terrace Houses were brought to light in excavations carried out since the 1980s by a team of Austrian archeologists. Along with those in Pompeii, they constitute some of the most vivid examples of Roman domestic architecture to survive to the present.
Next, you will proceed to the Celsus Library, The library is the best preserved structure of its kind. The inscription on the side of the building’s front staircase says that the library was build by Julius, in his father’s honor, after his death. His father, Celsus was the Roman governor of Asia Minor early in the 2nd century AD. His tomb is in the library as well.
Next, visit the Great Theatre, dating back to the Hellenistic period. In the 1st century AD it was successfully reconstructed and expanded by the Romans until it reached the seating capacity of 25,000. This is also the place where it is believed that St.Paul preached. It is still used for performances today.
Lunch recommended at a local restaurant.
At the end of your day, you will return to Kusadasi and have some time for shopping in town before you embark your ship.
Includes:
• 1 full- day of private sightseeing in Ephesus
• Licensed professional guide in English Language
• Air- conditioned luxury vehicle with a professional driver
• Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary
• Bottled water provided throughout the tour
• Welcome package
• VAT tax
Not Included:
• Gratuities to guide and driver
• Personal expenses of the guests
• Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary
• Recommended lunch
Kusadasi Port - A Taste of Ephesus- (Half day tour)
Kusadasi Port - A Taste of Ephesus- (Half day tour)
PORT: KUSADASI
A TASTE OF EPHESUS
Half- Day Tour
Arrive in Kusadasi, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your half- day of private sightseeing in Ephesus.
First, you will drive to Ephesus, enter and view the Odeon Theatre, where state affairs and concerts were held. Walk down the marble walkway and visit the Hadrian Temple. It was dedicated in 118 AD to Hadrian, Artemis, and the people of Ephesus but greatly reconstructed in the 4th century. This impressive Corinthian style temple has beautiful reliefs on the porch. According to the belief of Ephesians, the Medusa head on the porch, would protect the city from its enemies.
A special visit will be made to the spectacular Terrace Houses (Villas) located on top of the hill within the Ephesus. They have a fantastic view of the entire city of Ephesus. They were inhabited by wealthy Ephesians, and are finely decorated with incredible examples of mosaics and frescos. The Terrace Houses were brought to light in excavations carried out since the 1980s by a team of Austrian archeologists. Along with those in Pompeii, they constitute some of the most vivid examples of Roman domestic architecture to survive to the present.
Next, you will proceed to the Celsus Library, The library is the best preserved structure of its kind. The inscription on the side of the building’s front staircase says that the library was build by Julius, in his father’s honor, after his death. His father, Celsus was the Roman governor of Asia Minor early in the 2nd century AD. His tomb is in the library as well.
Last, visit the Great Theatre, dating back to the Hellenistic period. In the 1st century AD it was successfully reconstructed and expanded by the Romans until it reached the seating capacity of 25,000. This is also the place where it is believed that St.Paul preached. It is still used for performances today.
At the end of your day, you will return to Kusadasi and have some time for shopping in town before your embark your ship.
Includes:
- 1 half-day of private sightseeing in Ephesus
- Licensed professional guide in English language
- Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary
- Private Air-conditioned VIP vehicle with professional driver
- Welcome Package
- Bottled water provided throughout the tours
- VAT taxes
Not included:
- Gratuities to guide and driver
- Personal expenses of the guests
- Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary
Kusadasi Port - Ephesus & Virgin Mary House - (Half Day Tour)
Kusadasi Port - Ephesus & Virgin Mary House - (Half Day Tour)
PORT: KUSADASI
EPHESUS & VIRGIN MARY HOUSE
Half-Day Tour
Arrive in Kusadasi, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your half- day tour in Ephesus.
First, you will visit the House of Virgin Mary, where the Virgin is said to have lived the last years of her life. The building was rediscovered in the late 19th century by Lazartis from Smyrna based on the vision of a German nun. The site is officially declared a shrine of the Roman Catholic Church and visited by Pope Paul VI in 1967, Pope John Paul II in 1979 and Pope Benedict XVI in 2007.
Then, you will drive to Ephesus, enter and view the Odeon Theatre, where state affairs and concerts were held. Walk down the marble walkway and visit the Hadrian Temple. It was dedicated in 118 AD to Hadrian, Artemis, and the people of Ephesus but greatly reconstructed in the 4th century. This impressive Corinthian style temple has beautiful reliefs on the porch. According to the belief of Ephesians, the Medusa head on the porch, would protect the city from its enemies.
Next, you will proceed to the Celsus Library, The library is the best preserved structure of its kind. The inscription on the side of the building’s front staircase says that the library was build by Julius, in his father’s honour, after his death. His father, Celsus was the Roman governor of Asia Minor early in the 2nd century AD. His tomb is in the library as well.
Next, visit the Great Theatre, dating back to the Hellenistic period. In the 1st century AD it was successfully reconstructed and expanded by the Romans until it reached the seating capacity of 25,000. This is also the place where it is believed that St.Paul preached. It is still used for performances today.
At the end of your day, you will return to Kusadasi and have some time for shopping in town before you embark your ship.
Includes:
- 1 half-day of private sightseeing in Ephesus
- Licensed professional guide in English Language
- Air- conditioned luxury vehicle with a professional driver
- Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary
- Bottled water provided throughout the tour
- Welcome package
- VAT tax
Not Included:
- Gratuities to guide and driver
- Personal expenses of the guests
- Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary
Kusadasi Port - Three Ancient Cities; Didyma, Miletus & Priene (Full Day Tour)
Kusadasi Port - Three Ancient Cities; Didyma, Miletus & Priene (Full Day Tour)
KUSADASI
THREE ANCIENT CITIES
Your first stop will be Priene. The ancient harbor city of Priene probably changed its location when the silt of the Meander River threatened to bury it. Now it is nearly 16 km away from the sea. The original place of the city has never been found but it was probably a peninsula with two harbors. Priene was laid out on a Hippodamian system of grid plan at the foot of a spectacular cliff on mount Mycale and contained many famous examples of Hellenistic art and architecture.All the streets intersect at the right angles.
Next, visit Miletus an ancient city located near the present Akkoy at the mouth of the Buyuk Menderes (Meander) River, owed its importance to its position on trade routes. It was one of the largest cities in Anatolia with a population of between 80,000 and 100,000. Highly prosperous, it founded many colonies and was the home of the 6C BC philosophers Anaximander, Anaximenes, and Thales, the town planner Hippodamus and architect Isidorus. Miletus seems to have produced geniuses the way Aphrodisias produced sculptors.
Lunch suggested at local restaurant.
Last, you will visit Didyma. The word Didyma meant "twins" and was associated by some as being the meeting place of Zeus and Leto to have their twins Apollo and Artemis. Didyma was famed as a prophecy center dedicated to Apollo which served a similar purpose as the Delphi of Anatolia. It was not a city but a sanctuary linked to Miletus by Milesians with a 19 km/12 m sacred road. However, this road may not have been constructed until the end of the 1C AD. In addition to pilgrimages made by sea, some festivals of drama, music and sports were held there every four years.
At the end of your tour, you can return to Kusadasi.
OUR PACKAGE RATE INCLUDES
- 1 full day of sightseeing in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver in Three Ancient Cities.
- Private chauffeur driven a/c deluxe vehicle throughout the program.
- Officially licensed, English speaking guide throughout the tour program.
- Entrance fees to all museums, parks, and historic sites as marked on the itinerary.
- Bottled water provided throughout the tour.
- Welcome Package
- VAT taxes.
- Gratuities to the Guide & Driver
- At the discretion of the guests
- Personal expenses of the guests
- Suggested lunch
Kusadasi Port - Biblical Tour of Ephesus ( Full Day tour)
Kusadasi Port - Biblical Tour of Ephesus ( Full Day tour)
First, you will visit the House of Virgin Mary, where the Virgin is said to have lived the last years of her life. The building was rediscovered in the late 19th century by Lazartis from Smyrna based on the vision of a German nun. The site is officially declared a shrine of the Roman Catholic Church and visited by Pope Paul VI in 1967, Pope John Paul II in 1979 and Pope Benedict XVI in 2007.
Then, visit Ephesus, famous throughout the ancient world for its Temple of Artemis. You will first visit Odeon Theatre where the state affairs used to be held. Then, view The Temple of Hadrian is one of the main attractions at Ephesus, with a beautiful arch on the front facade and interesting reliefs of Medusa. According to the belief of Ephesians, the Medusa head on the porch, would protect the city from its enemies.
Next, you will visit the newly excavated spectacular The Terrace Houses on the Curetes street belonged to the rich people of Ephesus. Many of them were three-storied and had peristyles surrounded by rooms without windows but included frescoes and mosaics of mythological scenes. Some of the frescoes were scenes from the comedies of Menander and the tragedies of Euripides. They were luxuriously furnished private houses with fountains and central heating. Between the street and houses was a portico with a mosaic floor, behind which were shops.
Proceed to the Celsus Library is a Roman mausoleum and library built in the early 2nd century AD. The Library of Celsus was commissioned by the Julius as a mausoleum for his father, Roman governor of the Asian Provinces. It is one of the most beautifully reconstructed buildings in Ephesus, it has become an icon of the ancient city.
The Great Theatre, dates back to the Hellenistic period. It is one of the most impressive buildings in Ephesus which has the capacity of 25,000 seats. The theatre was used for concerts, plays and religious, political and philosophical discussions and for gladiator and animal fights. Marble Road, runs between the Library of Celsus and the theater and is a part of the sacred walk way.
Last, visit the Church of Mary that is a church of great historical significance located in Ephesus. It is also known as the Double Church, because it is thought one aisle was dedicated to the Virgin and the other to St. John, and the Council Church because the Council of Ephesus is believed to have been held here.
Lunch recommended at a local restaurant.
Next, you will see the Basilica of St. John,where John and the Virgin Mary went between 42 and 48 AD and lived. Three hundred years after the death of Saint John, a small chapel on the Ayasuluk Hill was constructed over his grave in the 4th century AD. This church was replaced in the 6th century AD by a huge basilica built by the Emperor Justinian, the impressive ruins of which are still visible.
Last, visit The Temple of Artemis also known less precisely as Temple of Diana, was a Greek temple dedicated to Artemis completed around 550 BC at Ephesus. The monument was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
At the end of your tour, you can return to Kusadasi for some shopping in town or visit one of the carpet villages along the way before embarking the ship. If you are not interested in shopping, please advise your guide that you would like to return directly to the ship.
Inclusions:
- 1 full day of sightseeing in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver in Ephesus
- Private chauffeur driven a/c deluxe vehicle throughout the program.
- Officially license, English speaking guide throughout the tour program.
- Entrance fees to all museums, parks, and historic sites as marked on the itinerary.
- Bottled water provided throughout the tour.
- Welcome Package
- VAT taxes.
- Gratuities to the Guide & Driver
- At the discretion of the guests
- Personal expenses of the guests
- Recommended lunch
Kusadasi Port - Ephesus & Didyma & Miletus (Full Day Tour)
Kusadasi Port - Ephesus & Didyma & Miletus (Full Day Tour)
Arrive in Kusadasi, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for private full day sightseeing.
First, visit Ephesus, famous throughout the ancient world for its Temple of Artemis. You will first visit Odeon Theatre where the state affairs used to be held. Then, view The Temple of Hadrian is one of the main attractions at Ephesus, with a beautiful arch on the front facade and interesting reliefs of Medusa. According to the belief of Ephesians, the Medusa head on the porch, would protect the city from its enemies.
Next, you will visit the newly excavated spectacular The Terrace Houses on the Curetes street belonged to the rich people of Ephesus. Many of them were three-storied and had peristyles surrounded by rooms without windows but included frescoes and mosaics of mythological scenes. Some of the frescoes were scenes from the comedies of Menander and the tragedies of Euripides. They were luxuriously furnished private houses with fountains and central heating. Between the street and houses was a portico with a mosaic floor, behind which were shops.
The Great Theatre, dates back to the Hellenistic period. It is one of the most impressive buildings in Ephesus which has the capacity of 25,000 seats. The theatre was used for concerts, plays and religious, political and philosophical discussions and for gladiator and animal fights. Marble Road, runs between the Library of Celsus and the theater and is a part of the sacred walk way.
Then, you will drive approximately 1½ hours to visit the ancient cities of Miletus and Didyma.
Lunch suggested at a local restaurant.
Next, visit Miletus an ancient city located near the present Akkoy at the mouth of the Buyuk Menderes (Meander) River, owed its importance to its position on trade routes. It was one of the largest cities in Anatolia with a population of between 80,000 and 100,000. Highly prosperous, it founded many colonies and was the home of the 6C BC philosophers Anaximander, Anaximenes, and Thales, the town planner Hippodamus and architect Isidorus. Miletus seems to have produced geniuses the way Aphrodisias produced sculptors.
Last, you will visit Didyma. The word Didyma meant "twins" and was associated by some as being the meeting place of Zeus and Leto to have their twins Apollo and Artemis. Didyma was famed as a prophecy center dedicated to Apollo which served a similar purpose as the Delphi of Anatolia. It was not a city but a sanctuary linked to Miletus by Milesians with a 19 km/12 m sacred road. However, this road may not have been constructed until the end of the 1C AD. In addition to pilgrimages made by sea, some festivals of drama, music and sports were held there every four years.
OUR NET PACKAGE RATE INCLUDES
- 1 full day of sightseeing in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver in Ephesus, Didyma and Miletus.
- Private chauffeur driven a/c deluxe vehicle throughout the program
- Licensed professional guide in English language.
- Officially licensed, English speaking guide throughout the tour program.
- Entrance fees to all museums, parks, and historic sites as marked on the itinerary.
- Bottled water provided throughout the tour.
- Welcome Package
- VAT taxes.
- Gratuities to the Guide & Driver
- At the discretion of the guests
- Personal expenses of the guests
- Suggested lunch
Rhodes Town & Lindos - Full day tour approx 8 hours
Rhodes Town & Lindos - Full day tour approx 8 hours
Guests will be met by our English speaking guide to commence the tour. Upon completion of the tour, transfer will be provided back to the ship.
Our tour begins with a drive through Mandraki Harbour and the new part of the city of Rhodes. We make our way to Mount Smith to enjoy a panoramic view of the city and continue on to the ruins of ancient Rhodes. We will explore the Acropolis of Rhodes, where remains of the Temple of Apollo and the ancient Stadium of Diagoras dominate the skyline. At Porte d’ Amboise, we begin our walking tour through the old city of Rhodes, filled with historical reminders of the ancient and medieval past. We will walk through the northern part of town, where knights once lived, and view the Grand Master’s Palace and then continue our walk down Chevalier’s Road, and the shopping districts around Socratus street, where we will enjoy some free time.
Our drive continues along the picturesque coastline to Lindos, the most important of the three great cities of ancient times. Within its medieval walls, erected by the Knights of St. John, stands the ancient Acropolis of Lindos, 400 feet above the sea, crowned by the Temple of Athena. From the heights, you will have breathtaking views of St. Paul’s Bay, where the Apostle cast anchor during his voyage to Ephesus, and the Aegean Sea. If you prefer not to make the climb, you may remain below and explore the village with its many small shops and cafes. At a set time, we will all gather for a wonderful luncheon at a Restaurant by the sea, where we will enjoy an array of local Greek specialties with beverages. After lunch, we will have some free time to enjoy the beach or do some shopping in the village of Lindos prior to returning to the Port.
Duration: approx. 8 hours
Notes:
• The Grand Masters Palace is closed on Mondays
• Steep, uphill walking is involved in Lindos. Guests with walking disabilities are recommended to stay in Lindos town for shopping.
• It is recommended that guests wear flat, comfortable walking shoes.
Rhodes Medieval town & Lindos Tour approx 5 1/2 hours
Rhodes Medieval town & Lindos Tour approx 5 1/2 hours
Depart Rhodes Town and drive along the east coast to Lindos, one of the three ancient cities on the island, and enjoy a visit of the famous Acropolis. Lindos offers breathtaking views and photo opportunities of the entire village, including its Medieval castle, superb sandy beaches and charming whitewashed, sugar-cubed houses. After a walking tour through the narrow-cobbled streets, colorful courtyards and mosaics, we will return to Rhodes town.
Back in Rhodes town, begin a walking tour of the old city from the Gate D'Amboise. Marvel at the imposing Palace of the Grand Masters (visit not included) and walk on the Street of the Knights, while your guide points out the facades of the many inns once occupied by the crusaders and at the end of the street, the Knight's Hospital, now an impressive Archaeological Museum. Enjoy some free time to explore on your own, before meeting your guide for the short ride back to the pier or your hotel.
Lindos half day tour 4 1/2 hours
Lindos half day tour 4 1/2 hours
Depart Rhodes Town and drive along the east coast to Lindos, one of the three ancient cities on the island, and enjoy a visit of the famous Acropolis. Lindos offers breathtaking views and photo opportunities of the entire village, including its Medieval castle, superb sandy beaches and charming whitewashed, sugar-cubed houses. After a walking tour through the narrow-cobbled streets, colorful courtyards and mosaics, we will return to Rhodes town.
Enjoy some free time to explore on your own, before meeting your guide for the short ride back to the pier or your hotel.
Rhodes & Filermos half day tour approx. 4 1/2 hours
Rhodes & Filermos half day tour approx. 4 1/2 hours
After meeting your professionally trained guide, you will drive to Filerimos, a large plateau which contains the ruins of several buildings including the foundations of a temple, an Early Christian Basilica and a Byzantine monastery. Continue with a drive along the seaside road of the city to the ancient Acropolis of Rhodes where the ruins of a stadium and the Temple of Apolonas, will be seen during a short description and photo opportunity.
Next, visit the Old Town starting at the Gate d’Amboise. Visit the imposing Palace of the Grand Masters and walk the Street of the Knights down to the Knight's hospital. Admire the facades of what used to be the Inns of the Knights, nowadays shops and private residences. Enjoy some free time to explore on your own, before meeting with your guide for the short ride back to the hotel/ ship
Jewish Highlights - Galilee & Golan Heights - One Day - Haifa Port
Jewish Highlights - Galilee & Golan Heights - One Day - Haifa Port
Highlights:
Depart Haifa driving to Tzipori (Sepphoris), the Talmudic town where the Mishna was signed; see the beautiful mosaics. Continue to Capernaum; see the ruins of the ancient synagogue dating back to the 4th century. Then, ascend the strategic Golan Heights for a greater understanding of the fierce battles that took place during the 1967 Six Day War and the 1973 Yom Kippur War. Stop at a former Israeli army bunker used as an outpost. Continue to a Golan winery for some wine tasting (time & schedule permitting). On your return to Haifa Port, view the golden-domed Bahai Shrine and the colorful Persian Gardens atop Mt. Carmel.
Tour Duration: One Day
Tour can operate: Morning – full day tour
Wheelchair Accessible: yes, itinerary may be adjusted
Physical Activity Level: moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up and drop off - passenger terminal
Not Included:
- Tips and gratuities
Jewish Highlights - Jerusalem - One Day - Haifa Port
Jewish Highlights - Jerusalem - One Day - Haifa Port
Highlights:
Depart Haifa and drive to Jerusalem. Begin the day with a magnificent view of Jerusalem from the Mt. of Olives. Enter the Old City from the Jaffa Gate to the newly restored Jewish Quarter. Walk along the Cardo, the colonnaded main street of Byzantine Jerusalem. Visit the Herodian Mansions, a com- pletely excavated residential quarter from 2000 years ago. On to the Western Wall, the only remaining portion of the Second Temple. Visit the Davidson Center; you’ll see a fantastic com- puter imaging presentation of the Temple Mount some 2000 years ago. Return to the port in Haifa. (Modest Clothing)
Tour Duration: One Day
Tour can operate: Morning – full day tour
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes, itinerary may be adjusted
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up and drop off - passenger terminal
Not Included:
- Tips and gratuities
1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Nazareth and the Sea of Galilee
1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Nazareth and the Sea of Galilee
Overview
Our Private Shore Excursions make the most of your brief time in Israel. Our port-to-port customized itineraries deliver an engaging and seamless experience.
- Experience breathtaking beauty of the Sea of Galilee
- Visit the Christian Holy sites in Galilee
- Explore Nazareth, childhood home of Jesus
Itinerary Highlights
- Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens
- Visit the Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth - boyhood home of Jesus
- Enjoy the spectacular view of the Sea of Galilee from the Mount of Beatitudes, the traditional site of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount
- Visit the church at Tabgha, the site of Jesus’ miracle of the Multiplication of Loaves & Fishes
- Visit the ancient synaguge at Capernaum, site of Jesus’ ministry in Galilee
One (1) day of private guide with deluxe air-conditioned vehicle.
Entrance fees and activities per itinerary
Destination Visited
- Mount Carmel
- Nazareth
- The Sea of Galilee
1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Akko Caesarea
1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Akko Caesarea
Overview
Our Private Shore Excursions make the most of your brief time in Israel. Our port-to-port customized itineraries deliver an engaging and seamless experience.
- Enjoy the beauty of Northern Israel
- Explore historical sites of Caesarea and Akko
Itinerary Highlights
- Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens
- Explore the ancient port city of Caesarea, including excavations from Roman, Byzantine, and Crusader periods
- Visit the ancient Phoenician and Crusader seaport of Akko, including the underground Knight’s chambers, the Templar tunnel, and the Hospitaller Castle
One (1) day of private guide with deluxe air-conditioned vehicle.
Entrance fees and activities per itinerary
Destinations Visited
- Mount Carmel
- Caesarea
- Akko
1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Caesarea Tel Aviv
1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Caesarea Tel Aviv
Overview
- Enjoy the beauty of Northern Israel
- Visit the archeological sites in Caesarea
- Explore Tel Aviv and visit the Biblical city of Jaffa
Itinerary Highlights
- Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens
- Explore the ancient port city of Caesarea, including excavations from Roman, Byzantine, and Crusader periods
- Visit a variety of neighborhoods in Tel Aviv - the Bauhaus area, the Neve Tzedek area and Rabin Squar
- Visit the ancient port of Jaffa, with its cobblestone paths, flea market and artists galleries
One (1) day of private guide with deluxe air-conditioned vehicle.
Entrance fees and activities per itinerary
Destinations Visited
- Mount Carmel
- Caesarea
- Tel Aviv & Jaffa
1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Akko - Safed
1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Akko - Safed
Overview
- Enjoy the beauty of Northern Israel
- Explore historical city of Akko
- Visit the spiritual city of Safed
Itinerary Highlights
- Visit the ancient seaport of Akko
- Discover the underground Knight’s chambers, the Templar tunnel, and the Hospitaller Castle
- Explore Safed, the birthplace of “Kabbalah” - Jewish mysticism
- Visit the ancient synagogues and artists’ galleries
- Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens
One (1) day of private guide with deluxe air-conditioned vehicle.
Entrance fees and activities per itinerary
Destinations Visited
- Akko
- Safed
- Mount Carmel
2 days/1 night Shore Excursion from Haifa - Sea of Galilee, Nazareth, Jerusalem and Bethlehem
2 days/1 night Shore Excursion from Haifa - Sea of Galilee, Nazareth, Jerusalem and Bethlehem
Overview
Our Private Shore Excursions make the most of your brief time in Israel. Our port-to-port customized itineraries deliver an engaging and seamless experience.
- Experience breathtaking beauty of the Sea of Galilee
- Visit the Christian Holy sites in Galilee
- Explore Nazareth, childhood home of Jesus
- Walk the Jewish Quarter of the Old City
- Explore the Holy sites of the Christian Quarter
- Experience the grace and sophistication of New Jerusalem
- Visit to Bethlehem
Itinerary Highlights
- Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens
- Visit the Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth - boyhood home of Jesus
- Enjoy the spectacular view of the Sea of Galilee from the Mount of Beatitudes, the traditional site of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount
- Visit the church at Tabgha, the site of Jesus’ miracle of the Multiplication of Loaves & Fishes
- Visit the ancient synagogue at Capernaum, site of Jesus’ ministry in Galilee
- Enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of Old & New Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives
- Visit the Garden of Gethsemane and the Basilica of the Agony
- Visit the ancient synagogues and stroll through the Cardo - the reconstructed main street of Byzantine Jerusalem
- View the Temple Mount with the Dome of the Rock & the Al Aqsa Mosque
- Touch the Western Wall - Judaism’s holiest site
- Walk the final Stations of the Cross along the Via Dolorosa and visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre
- Visit the Room of the Last Supper, in which, according to the Gospel accounts, Jesus shared his last meal with the disciples.
- Visit Manger Square and the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, birthplace of Jesus
One (1) night accommodation per requested hotel.
Two (2) days of private guide with deluxe air-conditioned vehicle.
Entrance fees and activities per itinerary
Destinations Visited
- Mount Carmel
- Nazareth
- The Sea of Galilee
- Jerusalem Old City
- The Western Wall
- Church of the Holy Sepulchre
- Bethlehem
Jewish Highlights - Galilee & Golan Heights - One Day - Haifa Port
Jewish Highlights - Galilee & Golan Heights - One Day - Haifa Port
Highlights:
Depart Haifa driving to Tzipori (Sepphoris), the Talmudic town where the Mishna was signed; see the beautiful mosaics. Continue to Capernaum; see the ruins of the ancient synagogue dating back to the 4th century. Then, ascend the strategic Golan Heights for a greater understanding of the fierce battles that took place during the 1967 Six Day War and the 1973 Yom Kippur War. Stop at a former Israeli army bunker used as an outpost. Continue to a Golan winery for some wine tasting (time & schedule permitting). On your return to Haifa Port, view the golden-domed Bahai Shrine and the colorful Persian Gardens atop Mt. Carmel.
Tour Duration: One Day
Tour can operate: Morning – full day tour
Wheelchair Accessible: yes, itinerary may be adjusted
Physical Activity Level: moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up and drop off - passenger terminal
Not Included:
- Tips and gratuities
Jewish Highlights - Jerusalem - One Day - Haifa Port
Jewish Highlights - Jerusalem - One Day - Haifa Port
Highlights:
Depart Haifa and drive to Jerusalem. Begin the day with a magnificent view of Jerusalem from the Mt. of Olives. Enter the Old City from the Jaffa Gate to the newly restored Jewish Quarter. Walk along the Cardo, the colonnaded main street of Byzantine Jerusalem. Visit the Herodian Mansions, a com- pletely excavated residential quarter from 2000 years ago. On to the Western Wall, the only remaining portion of the Second Temple. Visit the Davidson Center; you’ll see a fantastic com- puter imaging presentation of the Temple Mount some 2000 years ago. Return to the port in Haifa. (Modest Clothing)
Tour Duration: One Day
Tour can operate: Morning – full day tour
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes, itinerary may be adjusted
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up and drop off - passenger terminal
Not Included:
- Tips and gratuities
1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Nazareth and the Sea of Galilee
1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Nazareth and the Sea of Galilee
Overview
Our Private Shore Excursions make the most of your brief time in Israel. Our port-to-port customized itineraries deliver an engaging and seamless experience.
- Experience breathtaking beauty of the Sea of Galilee
- Visit the Christian Holy sites in Galilee
- Explore Nazareth, childhood home of Jesus
Itinerary Highlights
- Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens
- Visit the Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth - boyhood home of Jesus
- Enjoy the spectacular view of the Sea of Galilee from the Mount of Beatitudes, the traditional site of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount
- Visit the church at Tabgha, the site of Jesus’ miracle of the Multiplication of Loaves & Fishes
- Visit the ancient synaguge at Capernaum, site of Jesus’ ministry in Galilee
One (1) day of private guide with deluxe air-conditioned vehicle.
Entrance fees and activities per itinerary
Destination Visited
- Mount Carmel
- Nazareth
- The Sea of Galilee
1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Akko Caesarea
1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Akko Caesarea
Overview
Our Private Shore Excursions make the most of your brief time in Israel. Our port-to-port customized itineraries deliver an engaging and seamless experience.
- Enjoy the beauty of Northern Israel
- Explore historical sites of Caesarea and Akko
Itinerary Highlights
- Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens
- Explore the ancient port city of Caesarea, including excavations from Roman, Byzantine, and Crusader periods
- Visit the ancient Phoenician and Crusader seaport of Akko, including the underground Knight’s chambers, the Templar tunnel, and the Hospitaller Castle
One (1) day of private guide with deluxe air-conditioned vehicle.
Entrance fees and activities per itinerary
Destinations Visited
- Mount Carmel
- Caesarea
- Akko
1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Caesarea Tel Aviv
1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Caesarea Tel Aviv
Overview
- Enjoy the beauty of Northern Israel
- Visit the archeological sites in Caesarea
- Explore Tel Aviv and visit the Biblical city of Jaffa
Itinerary Highlights
- Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens
- Explore the ancient port city of Caesarea, including excavations from Roman, Byzantine, and Crusader periods
- Visit a variety of neighborhoods in Tel Aviv - the Bauhaus area, the Neve Tzedek area and Rabin Squar
- Visit the ancient port of Jaffa, with its cobblestone paths, flea market and artists galleries
One (1) day of private guide with deluxe air-conditioned vehicle.
Entrance fees and activities per itinerary
Destinations Visited
- Mount Carmel
- Caesarea
- Tel Aviv & Jaffa
1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Akko - Safed
1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Akko - Safed
Overview
- Enjoy the beauty of Northern Israel
- Explore historical city of Akko
- Visit the spiritual city of Safed
Itinerary Highlights
- Visit the ancient seaport of Akko
- Discover the underground Knight’s chambers, the Templar tunnel, and the Hospitaller Castle
- Explore Safed, the birthplace of “Kabbalah” - Jewish mysticism
- Visit the ancient synagogues and artists’ galleries
- Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens
One (1) day of private guide with deluxe air-conditioned vehicle.
Entrance fees and activities per itinerary
Destinations Visited
- Akko
- Safed
- Mount Carmel
2 days/1 night Shore Excursion from Haifa - Sea of Galilee, Nazareth, Jerusalem and Bethlehem
2 days/1 night Shore Excursion from Haifa - Sea of Galilee, Nazareth, Jerusalem and Bethlehem
Overview
Our Private Shore Excursions make the most of your brief time in Israel. Our port-to-port customized itineraries deliver an engaging and seamless experience.
- Experience breathtaking beauty of the Sea of Galilee
- Visit the Christian Holy sites in Galilee
- Explore Nazareth, childhood home of Jesus
- Walk the Jewish Quarter of the Old City
- Explore the Holy sites of the Christian Quarter
- Experience the grace and sophistication of New Jerusalem
- Visit to Bethlehem
Itinerary Highlights
- Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens
- Visit the Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth - boyhood home of Jesus
- Enjoy the spectacular view of the Sea of Galilee from the Mount of Beatitudes, the traditional site of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount
- Visit the church at Tabgha, the site of Jesus’ miracle of the Multiplication of Loaves & Fishes
- Visit the ancient synagogue at Capernaum, site of Jesus’ ministry in Galilee
- Enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of Old & New Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives
- Visit the Garden of Gethsemane and the Basilica of the Agony
- Visit the ancient synagogues and stroll through the Cardo - the reconstructed main street of Byzantine Jerusalem
- View the Temple Mount with the Dome of the Rock & the Al Aqsa Mosque
- Touch the Western Wall - Judaism’s holiest site
- Walk the final Stations of the Cross along the Via Dolorosa and visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre
- Visit the Room of the Last Supper, in which, according to the Gospel accounts, Jesus shared his last meal with the disciples.
- Visit Manger Square and the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, birthplace of Jesus
One (1) night accommodation per requested hotel.
Two (2) days of private guide with deluxe air-conditioned vehicle.
Entrance fees and activities per itinerary
Destinations Visited
- Mount Carmel
- Nazareth
- The Sea of Galilee
- Jerusalem Old City
- The Western Wall
- Church of the Holy Sepulchre
- Bethlehem
No information currently available.
No information currently available.
No information currently available.
No information currently available.
No information currently available.
No information currently available.
No information currently available.
Highlights of Dubai - Including at the Top (148) and the View
Highlights of Dubai - Including at the Top (148) and the View
Experience the best of the best of what Dubai has to offer! Embark on this awe-inspiring Dubai city tour, taking you to the most historic landmarks from Dubai’s past and the world-famous attractions of modern Dubai. The Highlights of Dubai tour is an ideal way to experience the best of Dubai’s past, present and future!
Inclusions
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off in a private vehicle
• Photo opportunities at Jumeirah Mosque, and a drive past the famous flag at Union House
• VIP Tickets to The View observation deck at the top of Nakheel Mall
• Photo opportunities with Museum of the Future, Zabeel Palace and the Dubai Frame
• An Abra ride across the Dubai Creek, exploring the Gold and Spice Souqs, and the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
• A visit to Souk Madinat and plenty of photo opportunities with Burj al Arab and the canals of the Madinat
• A ride on the Dubai Monorail, from the trunk of the Palm Jumeirah to Atlantis The Palm
• A photo stop on the bridge of Ain Dubai, with views across Jumeirah Beach Residence
• A visit to the Dubai Mall, the Middle East’s biggest mall and one of the largest in the world
• A photo stop in front of the Burj Khalifa as part of the visit to the Dubai Mall
• Leisure time at the Dubai Mall, or transfer back to the hotel
• Admission to At The Top Burj Khalifa, including the SKY Lounge at Level 148
Duration
10 to 12 hours
Dubai - Evening Desert Safari - (Private)
Dubai - Evening Desert Safari - (Private)
Description
Leave the buzzing city behind as you’re whisked off to the beautiful and peaceful Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, ready to deliver the best of what the dunes have to offer. Enjoy a thrilling dune drive, spotting local wildlife along the way, snap unbeatable photos at sunset, find your balance on a camel or a sand board and have your hands decorated in Henna to help the memories last longer.
Inclusions
• Pick-up and drop-off in a shared/private vehicle in a 4 wheel drive (Toyota Land Cruiser or similar)
• Dune drive
• Sunset stop
• Modern Bedouin-style camp
• Enjoy a variety of entertainment: Camel ride, sandboarding, henna hand painting
• Arabian Adventures fire and dance show
• BBQ dinner
• Unlimited soft drinks
• Option to add an adult beverage package (House or
Premium beverages)
• Guests on a sunset stop can enjoy Aperol Spritz refreshments as an optional extra
Duration
6 Hours - Late afternoon until early evening (estimated departure at 3:00 pm with estimated return at 9:00 pm)
Authentic Dubai Food Tour
Description
If you’re looking to take your taste buds on an adventure around the globe, Dubai is the perfect destination for you. Join our Taste of Dubai tour, to learn about traditional Arabic dishes and the importance gastronomy holds in the Emirati culture. Get ready to add some flavour to your visit!
Inclusions
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off in a private vehicle
• Knowledgeable tour guide
• Enjoy a juice and get introduced to local spices at the Spice Souk
• Enjoy delicious starters at Bayt Al Wakeel restaurant
• Experience Mandi, a traditional Middle Eastern dish, at Robou Al Yemen Mandi Restaurant
• Finish the tour with Arabic sweets and desserts while enjoying stunning views of the Dubai Creek, at City Creek Restaurant
Duration
4 hours
Based on the guests’ preference, the tour can start as early as 8:00 am and 4:30 in the evenings. During Ramadan the tour will operate from 6pm to 10pm.
Highlights of Dubai - Including at the Top (148) and the View
Highlights of Dubai - Including at the Top (148) and the View
Experience the best of the best of what Dubai has to offer! Embark on this awe-inspiring Dubai city tour, taking you to the most historic landmarks from Dubai’s past and the world-famous attractions of modern Dubai. The Highlights of Dubai tour is an ideal way to experience the best of Dubai’s past, present and future!
Inclusions
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off in a private vehicle
• Photo opportunities at Jumeirah Mosque, and a drive past the famous flag at Union House
• VIP Tickets to The View observation deck at the top of Nakheel Mall
• Photo opportunities with Museum of the Future, Zabeel Palace and the Dubai Frame
• An Abra ride across the Dubai Creek, exploring the Gold and Spice Souqs, and the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
• A visit to Souk Madinat and plenty of photo opportunities with Burj al Arab and the canals of the Madinat
• A ride on the Dubai Monorail, from the trunk of the Palm Jumeirah to Atlantis The Palm
• A photo stop on the bridge of Ain Dubai, with views across Jumeirah Beach Residence
• A visit to the Dubai Mall, the Middle East’s biggest mall and one of the largest in the world
• A photo stop in front of the Burj Khalifa as part of the visit to the Dubai Mall
• Leisure time at the Dubai Mall, or transfer back to the hotel
• Admission to At The Top Burj Khalifa, including the SKY Lounge at Level 148
Duration
10 to 12 hours
Dubai - Evening Desert Safari - (Private)
Dubai - Evening Desert Safari - (Private)
Description
Leave the buzzing city behind as you’re whisked off to the beautiful and peaceful Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, ready to deliver the best of what the dunes have to offer. Enjoy a thrilling dune drive, spotting local wildlife along the way, snap unbeatable photos at sunset, find your balance on a camel or a sand board and have your hands decorated in Henna to help the memories last longer.
Inclusions
• Pick-up and drop-off in a shared/private vehicle in a 4 wheel drive (Toyota Land Cruiser or similar)
• Dune drive
• Sunset stop
• Modern Bedouin-style camp
• Enjoy a variety of entertainment: Camel ride, sandboarding, henna hand painting
• Arabian Adventures fire and dance show
• BBQ dinner
• Unlimited soft drinks
• Option to add an adult beverage package (House or
Premium beverages)
• Guests on a sunset stop can enjoy Aperol Spritz refreshments as an optional extra
Duration
6 Hours - Late afternoon until early evening (estimated departure at 3:00 pm with estimated return at 9:00 pm)
Authentic Dubai Food Tour
Description
If you’re looking to take your taste buds on an adventure around the globe, Dubai is the perfect destination for you. Join our Taste of Dubai tour, to learn about traditional Arabic dishes and the importance gastronomy holds in the Emirati culture. Get ready to add some flavour to your visit!
Inclusions
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off in a private vehicle
• Knowledgeable tour guide
• Enjoy a juice and get introduced to local spices at the Spice Souk
• Enjoy delicious starters at Bayt Al Wakeel restaurant
• Experience Mandi, a traditional Middle Eastern dish, at Robou Al Yemen Mandi Restaurant
• Finish the tour with Arabic sweets and desserts while enjoying stunning views of the Dubai Creek, at City Creek Restaurant
Duration
4 hours
Based on the guests’ preference, the tour can start as early as 8:00 am and 4:30 in the evenings. During Ramadan the tour will operate from 6pm to 10pm.
Inside
Inside Stateroom [ F ]
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Inside Stateroom [ G ]
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Oceanview
Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom [ C1 ]
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Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom [ C2 ]
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Oceanview Stateroom [ D ]
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Solo Oceanview Stateroom [ S ]
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Balcony
Concierge Level Verandah [ A1 ]
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Concierge Level Verandah [ A2 ]
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Concierge Level Verandah [ A3 ]
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Verandah Stateroom [ B1 ]
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Verandah Stateroom [ B2 ]
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Suite
Owner's Suite [ OS ]
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Vista Suite [ VS ]
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Penthouse Suite [ PH1 ]
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[ PH2 ]
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Penthouse Suite [ PH3 ]
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For bookings made before 10/01/2024, the following "Simply More" Cruise Inclusions apply:
- FREE Internet
- FREE Specialty Restaurants
- FREE Room Service 24 Hours a Day
- FREE Shuttles to City Center
- FREE Fitness Classes
- FREE Still & Sparkling Vero Water
- FREE Soft Drinks & Specialty Coffees
- FREE Launderette
- and more
For bookings made on or after 10/01/2024, the following "Your World Included™" Cruise Inclusions apply:
- Gourmet Specialty Restaurants
A variety of distinctive, open-seating restaurants, all at no additional charge. - In-Suite and In-Stateroom Dining
Our hot and cold in-room dining selections are sublime and complimentary. - Unlimited WiFi
Starlink® connectivity affords much quicker upload and download speeds. - Sodas, Specialty Coffees & Teas
Whether at a restaurant, lounge or Baristas coffee bar, it's always free. - Still & Sparkling Vero Water®
Unlimited, eco-friendly and great tasting, the gold standard of still and sparkling water. - Juices, Smoothies & Gourmet Ice Cream
Cold-pressed juices, fruit smoothies, homemade gelato and gourmet ice creams are always included. - Group Fitness Classes
Choose from a selection of free classes at Aquamar® Spa + Vitality Center. - Laundry Services
With free laundrettes included along with laundry services and pressing for Concierge and Suite levels, you'll always look your finest. - Shipboard Gratuities
Our people make the difference - your smile is their greatest reward.
Optional shore excursions.
Optional roundtrip airfare.
Pre or post cruise hotel stay.
All fares are quoted in US Dollars.
All prices per person and in USD unless otherwise stated.
Reference this number when contacting our agency so we may better serve you. Also keeping this number handy will allow you to locate this document again quickly.
Company Info
Blossom Hill Travel
2899 The Villages Parkway
San Jose, CA 95135
United States
Contact Info
Blossom Hill Travel
2899 The Villages Pkwy.
San Jose, CA 95135
(408) 482-5711 Local
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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