About this experience
The Archaeological Museum of Istanbul houses hundreds of world relics - from statues of ancient gods to Mesopotamian artifacts. Together we will explore the most significant exhibits of the collection: artifacts of Celts and Egyptians, ancient scrolls and sarcophagi. Then we will embark on a cruise along the Bosphorus, discussing the past and present of Istanbul while enjoying its best views.
What to Expect
Relics of Ancient Civilizations
The first part of the tour will introduce you to the main artifacts of the Archaeological Museum of Istanbul. We will touch on the cultures of ancient Babylon, Antiquity, Ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Byzantium, the Seljuk and Ottoman periods:
- you will hear the myths of Celts and Greeks;
- see a scroll with the first love poems and the Kadesh Treaty - the world's first peace treaty;
- uncover the secrets of the sarcophagus of Alexander the Great and ancient Egyptian sarcophagi;
- imagine what ancient Greek temples looked like, and examine statues of ancient gods;
- and much more!
View of Istanbul from the Great Bosphorus
Afterwards, we will return from antiquity to the present: relax and chat over a cup of tea or coffee in an authentic cafe in the museum garden. Then through the picturesque Gulhane Park, past the Eastern Express station, we will reach the pier and set off to conquer the Bosphorus. From the water, you will see the Dolmabahce and Beylerbey palaces, famous bridges, the iconic Maiden's Tower, and various districts of Istanbul - Eminonu, Kadikoy, Karakoy, Uskudar. I will definitely tell you the most interesting facts about each of them and share stories of the landmarks that will appear before us.
Organizational Details
Please note: The Archaeological Museum consists of three buildings, and one of them (where works of Eastern culture are stored, including the Kadesh Treaty and the first love poem) is temporarily under restoration.
- Additional charges: entrance ticket to the museum (340 liras per person) and ferry ticket (150 liras per person), as well as coffee and lunch in the cafe (optional)
- The museum tour lasts approximately 2 hours, as does our ferry cruise
- If there are children in the group, I can adapt the tour material for them
- I will conduct the tour for you or one of the guides from our team
