Istanbul, capital of the Ottoman and Byzantine empires, enjoyed more than four centuries of imperial patronage, resulting in one of the most dramatic skylines in the world. This comprehensive tour visits several of the city’s most exquisite mosques and palaces, including Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia. Together with the energetic street life and vibrant bazaars, they make Istanbul one of Europe and Asia’s most alluring cities – as you will discover first-hand.