Spending one day in Istanbul offers a perfect whirlwind experience of this vibrant city where East meets West. Located on two continents (Europe and Asia), Istanbul is one of the largest cities in the world with a population of 20+ million people.

Even though our time was limited (and the weather a bit rainy), we made the most of it, seeing the gorgeous Blue Mosque, the fragrant Spice Bazaar as well as taking in scenic Bosphorus views from our cruise ship. We also sampled some delicious Turkish food, teas, coffee and of course, baklava.

Before booking a last minute tour, I had planned to utilize the ferry system to get around the city. Our hotel was located near the Beşiktaş ferry terminal and it was a short 10 minute ride to the Asian side and down the Golden Horn area to the part of the city that contained the mosques and markets we wanted to visit. However, our cruise company offered a last minute bus tour before dropping us off to board the boat, so I decided to go with that option just in case. We did not want to get left behind at the port although I almost did, but more on that later…

While we only got to see Haggia Sophia from afar, we did go inside the Blue Mosque. It’s free to enter and women who visit should bring a head covering or borrow one at the door. You will also need to take your shoes off to enter. Men should wear long pants and women should also cover shoulders. The inside is absolutely beautiful and a must-see! Be sure to check prayer times since only those who participate in the prayer will be allowed in during that time.

Another highlight was the Egyptian Spice Bazaar, which was built in 1664. Unfortunately, the Grand Bazaar, Istanbul’s most famous shopping market, was closed the day were were there, but we still got a taste for what it was like by visiting the spice bazaar instead.

This is a covered marketplace where you can buy all sorts of looseleaf teas, food items and unique souveniers. I’m already thinking about how to import some things when I run out of the tea that I purchased and brought back to the states with me!

From there, we headed to the port and began the boarding process for our ship. This is where things got hairy! I booked our Norwegian cruise last August and final payment was due on January 18th. When we got to check-in, the person helping us took off with my passport and was gone for quite sometime. When she eventually returned, she informed me I had a balance due of $1,500 and had to agree to pay it before boarding the ship.

I knew this was completely incorrect (and once I had access to wifi on the boat, downloaded my statement as proof), but she could not tell me what the charge was for and made me sign an invoice stating I would pay it or else I couldn’t board.

Obviously, this was quite stressful and once on board, the customer service desk gave me conflicting information as well. At first, they showed no balance, then returned with something saying I didn’t pay an airline fee.

After some back and forth during the first few days on the ship, it was determined that was an error and I didn’t owe anything (duh), but what a huge mistake on the part of the company that could very well have turned out badly if I hadn’t signed the paper to get on the ship.

However, it all turned out ok and despite that stressful end to the day, we had a great time in Istanbul and I hope that we find ourselves back there again someday in the future.

Even if you only have one day in Istanbul, it’s well worth visiting the city since it’s packed with rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, exploring Istanbul in one day lets you uncover the city’s unique charm and unforgettable culture. And you’re sure to see some of Turkey’s famous cats along the way.

For more about our one day in Istanbul, be sure to check out my vlog and watch for more about our cruise to Turkey, Greece & Egypt!