Bosphorus

Experience the historically and symbolically significant Bosphorus, the narrow strait that divides Europe from Asia. From here you see the Istanbul skyline, one of the most dramatic in the world. Two massive suspension bridges now span these bustling waters, in which tour boats, ferries, and fishing vessels vie for space. Tours up the Bosphorus stop at several notable buildings, including the Sultans' 19th-century Dolmabahçe Palace. On the far Asian shores lie Uskudar (Scutari), where Florence Nightingale nursed the wounded during the Crimean War; the charming Ottoman summer palace of Beylerbeyi; and a whole series of delightful villages full of fresh fish restaurants and fine old mansions, built by the 19th-century aristocracy. Looming at each other across the water are several Byzantine and Ottoman castles, including Anadoluhisar and Rumelihisar.