Discover the unique contrasts of Turkey, a fascinating country where history and modernity collide. On luxury Turkey cruises, visit the alluring capital of Istanbul, a cosmopolitan city divided between Europe and Asia by the scenic Bosphorus Strait. Explore the Ancient Greek city of Ephesus, home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Depending on the itinerary, our cruises to Turkey stop in ports in Spain, Italy, and the Greek Islands along the way, as well as include an overnight stay in Istanbul. You can also embark on an unforgettable journey that sails around the Mediterranean and Israel, which visits the charming port of Haifa and includes an overnight stay in the historic city of Jerusalem.
Make your way around the historic city of Ephesus, where you’ll find temples, theaters, and a library, all of which date back 2,000 years. Even though 80% of this ancient metropolis remains buried, you’ll still be able to marvel at a trove of archeological treasures. While in Istanbul, descend into the Basilica Cistern, a Byzantine structure built by Emperor Justinian in 532, which features over 300 ancient columns.
Spend a day exploring Istanbul’s most famous landmarks, such as the Hagia Sophia, a spectacular 6th-century building that has served as a mosque, Eastern Orthodox church, and Catholic cathedral throughout its storied history. Or step inside the neighboring Blue Mosque, a grand domed structure built during the Ottoman Empire which still serves as a popular place of worship today. While in Ephesus, pay a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, where the mother of Jesus is said to have lived during the last years of her life.
Savor the unique flavors of Turkish cuisine, where you’ll find a mix of Mediterranean dishes and Eastern ingredients. Meat lovers can try different iterations of the local specialty, lamb kebabs, while vegetarians will love plant-based foods such as red lentil soup, bulgur salads, and dolmas. Don’t leave without trying a plate of manti, small dough kebabs that come with a variety of fillings.
Our luxury Turkey cruises sail from May through October, allowing you to enjoy the shoulder and summer seasons in Europe. Itineraries range from 10 to 12 nights and visit between seven to ten different ports. Cruises depart from Rome, Athens, or Barcelona and spend two to four nights at sea, which gives you plenty of time to experience the highlights of this gorgeous region of the world.
Not only do we offer the best way to explore Europe, but we also make it easy to get there with Flights by Celebrity℠. Relax knowing you’re booking the lowest airfare and have a dedicated team helping you get to your ship—and back.
After being voted “Best Cruise Line in Europe'' for eleven consecutive years, we know how to make a cruise around Turkey and the Mediterranean a memorable one. Discover spectacular destinations while surrounded in the utmost luxury and comfort aboard our award-winning ships. Dine on world-class cuisine crafted by a Michelin-starred chef. Enjoy unlimited entertainment options, like Broadway-level shows in the Theatre and live music in the onboard bars and lounges. Sign up for thrilling shore excursions, where you’ll step inside ancient ruins and explore new cities under the guidance of knowledgeable tour guides.
On our sailings to Turkey, you’ll be able to experience one of our newest cruise ships, Celebrity Edge or Apex, two innovative vessels with avant-garde venues like nothing else at sea. Watch the sunset from the Magic Carpet, a cantilevered platform that can soar up to 13 stories above the water. Stay in one of the groundbreaking Infinite Veranda staterooms, where you can transform your living room into an ample veranda with the push of a button. Or plan an indulgent vacation with a stay at The Retreat, our luxury vacation experience that comes with expansive suite accommodations and exclusive access to a private sun deck, restaurant, and lounge.
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