Istanbul: Where Europe and Asia Meet

Istanbul is one of the world's most exciting cities. It stands between two continents - Europe and Asia - connected by the Bosphorus Strait. With over 15 million people, Istanbul is Turkey's largest city and has been important for thousands of years. Once called Byzantium and Constantinople, it was the capital of the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires. Today, it's a mix of old and new, where you'll find ancient landmarks beside modern shops and cafés.

Landmarks That Tell a Thousand Stories

Your visit to Istanbul will be full of amazing places. The most famous is the Hagia Sophia, a huge building with a rich history as a church and a mosque. Across from it is the Blue Mosque, known for its six towers and beautiful blue tiles.

Nearby is Topkapi Palace, where Ottoman sultans once lived. You can walk through the palace rooms, see the gardens, and visit the museum inside. Just a few steps away is the Basilica Cistern, an underground water system built by the Romans with tall columns and soft lighting.

For shopping and local color, visit the Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest markets. You'll find carpets, lamps, jewelry, spices, and more. If you're looking for something smaller, try the Spice Bazaar, which is full of colorful sweets and enticing aromas.

Special Moments on a Cruise Stop

Arriving in Istanbul by cruise is an exceptional experience. As your ship comes in, you'll see the city skyline filled with domes and towers. The air smells of the sea and grilled fish from boats near the port.

You can take a short ferry ride across the Bosphorus, changing continents in just 20 minutes. A walk across the Galata Bridge brings you to the Galata Tower, where you can see the whole city from the top. If you prefer something quiet, relax in a café in Karaköy or try fresh Turkish tea with a view of the water.

A City of Legends

Istanbul has many stories. One says that the city was founded by King Byzas, who followed advice from an oracle and built the city "across from the land of the blind." That meant he chose a better place than others before him, thanks to its perfect location. Later, the city became known as Constantinople, and many rulers helped shape its long history.

Today, Istanbul still feels like a city of stories, old and new, waiting to be discovered.