AN 4

THE BOSPHORUS

(Daily AM & PM Half day cruise)

We begin with a brief visit to the 17th century Spice Bazaar*, one of Istanbul's most colorful and bustling attractions. Next, we take an unforgettable cruise along the Bosphorus, the majestic strait that runs through Istanbul, linking Europe and Asia. From our cruise boat, we view the dramatic sights lining the Bosphorus wooded shores : mosques, a bridge that for a time was the worlds longest and the massive Rumeli Hisari, a fortress built by Mehmet the Conqueror in just three months as he prepared to conquer Istanbul. Also noteworthy are the 19th century mansions of the Ottoman elite and the Sultans fanciful gingerbread palaces and hunting lodges.

* Spice Bazaar may be visited prior to the Bosphorus Cruise, depending on the number of tour participants.