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Heritage Sites & The Holy Land

Aboard Seven Seas Mariner with Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Departure Date

13 October 2025

Duration

9 Nights

Fly Cruise From

£6,729pp

Cruise Reference

ART-1HERE14

Cruise Overview

The only city in the world that can lay claim to straddling two continents, Istanbul—once known as Constantinople, capital of the Byzantine and then the Ottoman Empire—has for centuries been a bustling metropolis with one foot in Europe and the other in Asia.

Istanbul embraces this enviable position with both a certain chaos and inventiveness, ever evolving as one of the world’s most cosmopolitan crossroads.

It’s often said that Istanbul is the meeting point of East and West, but visitors to this city built over the former capital of two great empires are likely to be just as impressed by the juxtaposition of old and new.

Office towers creep up behind historic palaces, women in chic designer outfits pass others wearing long skirts and head coverings, peddlers’ pushcarts vie with battered old Fiats and shiny BMWs for dominance of the noisy, narrow streets, and the Grand Bazaar competes with modern shopping malls.

At dawn, when the muezzin's call to prayer resounds from ancient minarets, there are inevitably a few hearty revelers still making their way home from nightclubs and bars.

Most visitors to this sprawling city of more than 14 million will first set foot in the relatively compact Old City, where the legacy of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires can be seen in monumental works of architecture like the brilliant Aya Sofya and the beautifully proportioned mosques built by the great architect Sinan.

Though it would be easy to spend days, if not weeks, exploring the wealth of attractions in the historical peninsula, visitors should make sure also to venture elsewhere in order to experience the vibrancy of contemporary Istanbul.

With a lively nightlife propelled by its young population and an exciting arts scene that’s increasingly on the international radar—thanks in part to its stint as the European Capital of Culture in 2010—Istanbul is truly a city that never sleeps.

It’s also a place where visitors will feel welcome: Istanbul may be on the Bosphorus, but at heart it’s a Mediterranean city, whose friendly inhabitants are effusively social and eager to share what they love most about it.
Whilst the busy resort town of Kusadasi offers much in the way of shopping and dining – not to mention a flourishing beach life scene, the real jewel here is Ephesus and the stunning ruined city that really take centre stage.

With only 20% of the classical ruins having been excavated, this archaeological wonder has already gained the status as Europe’s most complete classical metropolis.

And a metropolis it really is; built in the 10th century BC this UNESCO World Heritage site is nothing short of spectacular.

Although regrettably very little remains of the Temple of Artemis (one of the seven wonders of the ancient world), the superb Library of Celsus’ façade is practically intact and it is one of life’s great joys to attend an evening performance in the illuminated ruins once all the tourists have left.

The history of the city is fascinating and multi-layered and it is well worth reading up on this beforehand if a visit is planned.

Another point of interest for historians would be the house of the Virgin Mary, located on the romantically named Mount Nightingale and just nine kilometres away from Ephesus proper.

Legend has it that Mary (along with St.

John) spent her final years here, secluded from the rest of the population, spreading Christianity.

An edifying experience, even for non-believers.

For the less historical minded amongst you, Kusadasi offers plenty in the way of activities.

After a stroll through the town, jump in a taxi to Ladies’ Beach (men are allowed), sample a Turkish kebap on one of the many beachfront restaurants and enjoy the clement weather.

If you do want to venture further afield, then the crystal clear beaches of Guzelcamli (or the Millipark), the cave of Zeus and the white scalloped natural pools at Pamukkale, known as Cleopatra’s pools, are definitely worth a visit.

Cruise Itinerary

Aboard Seven Seas Mariner

Launch Year: 2001 Length: 216 Width: 28 Currency: USD Capacity: 684 Crew Count: 467 Deck Count: 8 Cabin Count: 342

If you wish to sail amidst the stunning glaciers of Alaska in comfort and style, you’ll find your ideal voyage in the summer itineraries of Seven Seas Mariner®. In other seasons, the ship explores the wonders of Asia, Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific.

Your home at sea offers much more than home, from Broadway-calibre entertainment on Deck 6 to a putting green on Deck 12 to relaxing whirlpools on Deck 11. Explore the deck plans to make the most of your time on board.

You’ll find time spent on board the ship to be just as enriching as time ashore. Relax by the pool, compete in a friendly game of trivia or bocce ball, indulge in treats at afternoon tea and gain insight from an expert lecturer.

Soothing colours accented by appealing patterns and textures dominate the interiors of Seven Seas Mariner®. The common spaces offer everything from wide-open views on the upper deck to intimate tables for bridge in the Card Room.

Seven Seas Mariner Facilities

Seven Seas Mariner Includes

Cabin Details

Attention to detail distinguishes Regent Seven Sea Cruises™ and the exceptional suites on Seven Seas Mariner®. Every guest enjoys spacious closets, well-appointed bathrooms and a private balcony with views of the shimmering sea.

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