Istanbul — Turkey's largest city, bridging Europe and Asia, famous for historic landmarks, bazaars, and vibrant culture.

Iconic Byzantine cathedral-turned-mosque, now a museum showcasing history and architecture.


One of the largest covered markets in the world, offering everything from spices to jewelry.


A boat ride along the strait dividing Europe and Asia, passing Ottoman palaces, fortresses, and waterfront mansions — one of the best ways to see the city.

A cavernous 6th-century underground water reservoir with hundreds of columns, moody lighting, and two famous Medusa-head bases.

A fragrant Ottoman-era market piled with spices, Turkish delight, teas, and dried fruit near the Galata Bridge.

A lavish 19th-century Bosphorus-front palace that replaced Topkapi as the seat of the later Ottoman sultans, dripping in crystal and gold leaf.