After a morning at sea, we enjoy lunch onboard as we sail the Sea of Marmara and navigate the Bosphorus Strait en route to Istanbul. Approaching this fabled city by sea is quite an epic feat, gifting us dramatic views of the city's minareted skyline. Istanbul, a city steeped in exotic allure, conjures visions of belly dancing, bustling bazaars, and flying carpets. Spanning Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus Strait, this vibrant metropolis serves as Turkey's cultural and economic hub, blending ancient Byzantine and Ottoman legacies with modern dynamism. Formerly known as Constantinople in honor of the Roman Emperor Constantine, Istanbul captivates from its iconic landmarks-the domes of the Hagia Sophia and the towering minarets of the Blue Mosque, to the labyrinthine Grand Bazaar, where centuries-old trade traditions thrive amid carpets, spices, and crafts. Istanbul exudes a palpable sense of history that excites the senses. We disembark and meet our guides for a local's view of Istanbul. Catching a ride on one of Istanbul's popular trams, we head to the hilltop suburb of Sultanahmet, where we spend the afternoon with Constantinople's iconic trifecta: the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace. As we explore the Sultan's precinct, our guides tell tales of the city's celebrated past. Begin your journey at the ancient Hippodrome, once Constantinople's vibrant sporting and social center. This historic venue hosted thrilling chariot races and political events, and today, in the Hippodrome area, remnants like the Obelisk (erected by the Egyptian Pharaoh Tuthmosis), the Serpent Column, and the Column of Constantine still stand as silent witnesses to their storied past. From here, we admire the venerated Blue Mosque, renowned for its six minarets and iconic blue Iznik tiles, while our guides explain the profound influence of the Islamic faith on the lives of the city's inhabitants. Just steps away is the Ayasofya, or the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. Originally built as the "greatest church in Christendom", the Hagia Sophia now stands as a testament to time and the dynamic history of the city. The highlight of our afternoon is a visit to the Sultan's private residence, Topkapi Palace. Here, we explore the state rooms, museum, and grounds of this opulent palace. Designed to reflect a tented lodge, Topkapi captures the essence of the nomadic Ottoman lifestyle in a permanent structure. Libidinous sultans, ambitious courtiers, attractive concubines, and scheming eunuchs lived and worked here for four centuries when Constantinople was the heart of the Ottoman Empire. A visit to the palace's opulent pavilions, jewel-filled treasury, and sprawling grounds offers a fascinating glimpse into their lives. (Note: This tour includes an interior visit to Topkapi Palace. A visit to the interior of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia is included in a Grand Mosque 'Your Choice' experience.) Reboarding our tram, we bid farewell to our guides and return to the ship to watch the sun set over Istanbul, while enjoying dinner. We will remain moored in Istanbul overnight, allowing you to explore and experience more of this vibrant city tomorrow. ...
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