Istanbul Port Question

[Tripmaven]

I am interested in finding information about the docking area for the Royal Princess in Istanbul. We have been to Istanbul a couple of times, so we want to walk to the area around the Spice Bazaar if possible. Is this possible from the probable dock. We have seen other cruise ships near the Grand Bazaar, but we don't know if this is the usual docking area. Any help will be appreciated. Thanks

[wwinfl91]

When we were on the Golden last summer we were docked quite a ways from the old city of Istanbul on the opposite side of the Golden Horn. We were driven across the Galata Bridge over to the city. If I'm not mistaken the Spice Bazaar is close to where that bridge enters the old city. If you are going to be docked where we were, you would need to find transportation, a cab maybe, to get to the Spice Market. I don't think that walking although the distance might be possible would be a good idea.

Have a great next cruise.

[Hlitner]

We really love visiting Istanbul (been there 3 times) and have always had wonderful experiences with the Turks. Whether you want to walk to the Spice Market depends on how much you enjoy walking. We have walked from the port all the way to Topkapi..but it was a hike. Your walk would be much easier since the Egyptian Market (same as the Spice Market) is only a couple of blocks on the far side of the Galata Bridge from the port. We would do the walk if the weather was comfortable..but consider a taxi if its really hot. One of our most memorable moments in Istanbul came late one gorgeous afternoon when we decided to walk back to the ship from the Covered Bazaar. As we were crossing the bridge..we heard the call to prayer echoing in the background. There was something very magical about that walk..with the golden sun..activity in the water below the bridge..the tops of the Mosques visible from the bridge..etc etc.. Oh MY! Please take me with you.



Hank

[Morgans]

Yes, the Spice Bazaar is just at the opposite end of the Galeta Bridge and it is walkable if you have comfortable shoes. We did it last year - just keep parallel to the river until you find the bridge and then cross over. You then go through an underpass at the end and that brings you out at the Spice Market. It is fascinating and there are lots & lots of things to spend your money on. They were taking, dollars, euros and pounds sterling so there was a good choice of how to pay - some excellent bargains, some not so good. One thing we would say, for the gentlemen amongst us,is do not wear shorts or you will stick out like a sore thumb - every man we saw was wearing trousers. Have a brilliant time

[Tripmaven]

This is the type of help that makes the boards so valuable. Thanks for your input on the port.