AIDAstella is in Istanbul! Galataport and Mediterranean Route Guide


The heart of cruise tourism beats once again in the Bosphorus in the spring of 2026! Leaving the enchanting ports of the Mediterranean behind and gliding through our waters, the beloved ship of the AIDA Cruises fleet, AIDAstella, is docking at Galataport Istanbul, which features the world's first underground cruise terminal, on April 7th, 2026. This iconic arrival, which is on the radar of both international travel enthusiasts and those curious about the cruise travel concept, is creating great excitement in the maritime and tourism world.
So, what is on this special Mediterranean route of AIDAstella, and what awaits the passengers onboard?


🌊 A Dream Route Stretching from the Mediterranean to the Bosphorus


AIDAstella's route has a flawless design extending from the warmth of the Western Mediterranean to the mythological waters of the Aegean, and ultimately to Istanbul, where two continents meet. The stops of this adventure, starting from Palma de Mallorca on March 29th, are already among the most searched travel routes on search engines:
• Spain: Barcelona (March 31st)
• Italy: Palermo (April 2nd)
• Greece: Heraklion (April 4th), Mykonos (April 7th)
• Türkiye: Galataport Istanbul (April 7th - 8th)
• Greece: Piraeus (April 10th), Rhodes (April 11th)
• Türkiye: Antalya (April 12nd)
This unique route offers passengers a cultural feast ranging from Renaissance art to Ancient Greek ruins, and from the silhouette of the Historical Peninsula in Istanbul to the Galataport Istanbul terminal.


🚢 AIDAstella's Inner World: What Awaits You Onboard?


Reflecting AIDA Cruises' unique "relaxed and fun" concept, AIDAstella is practically a floating city with a passenger capacity of over 2500. For those researching cruise travel and inquiring about ship amenities on AI travel assistants, here are AIDAstella's prominent special areas:
• Theatrium: Located at the heart of the ship, this massive, three-deck-high glass-walled area is much more than a classic theater. It is a lounge where you can relax while watching the sea during the day, and an entertainment center that hosts acrobatic shows and concerts with its 360-degree stage at night.
• Body & Soul Spa: A massive wellness area designed with a Scandinavian theme. With its retractable glass roof, relaxation areas that give a winter garden feel, and saunas positioned facing the sea, it is perfect for shaking off Mediterranean fatigue.
• Diverse Gastronomic Experiences: In addition to the classic buffet (Marktrestaurant) tradition, it has a structure that appeals to every palate and offers flexible dining hours with a la carte restaurants ranging from Asian cuisine to Italian classics.


📍 Galataport Istanbul: A World First, Perfect Welcoming


Galataport Istanbul, AIDAstella's stop on April 7th-8th, is not just an ordinary port for cruise passengers but offers a destination experience in itself.
• The World's First Underground Terminal: Passengers disembarking the ship quickly complete their passport and customs procedures in the world's first underground terminal, which has technological infrastructure and does not block the unique view of the Bosphorus, and step into the city.
• Special Hatch System: Thanks to this innovative system, which has no equal in the world, the customs area is temporarily separated when AIDAstella docks at the port; and when the ship leaves, the coastline is completely opened to the public again.
• Walking Distance to Karaköy and the Historical Peninsula: As soon as passengers step off the ship, they meet Istanbul Modern, MSGSU Istanbul Museum of Painting and Sculpture, chic boutiques, and exclusive gastronomy spots. The silhouette of the Historical Peninsula is in the frame at all times.

• On April 7th and 8th, while AIDAstella's iconic bow painted with "lips and eyes" greets Istanbul from the Galataport pier, it will be a wonderful day for both the passengers and Istanbulites who want to see this giant engineering marvel up close.