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THE BOSPHORUS
A narrated boat ride on the Bosphorus is a the Bosphorus as we glided through
splendid way to see Istanbul. In just a few sparkling waters past lush green hills and
hours, you pass the city's most famous land- landmarks dating past a thousand years. Be-
marks, including Hagia Sophia, the Blue sides lots of mosques, we sailed past a num-
Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace, and view ber of Ottoman palaces that showcased the
them from a whole new angle. There’s also a power, wealth and extravagance of the Ot-
good chance you’ll see other local marine toman Empire. The largest and most opulent,
life, including dolphins, seals, and sea tur- the Dolmabahce Palace, was built in the 19th
tles. century to replace Topkapi Palace. Beylerbeyi
Our boat tour included a guide who offered Palace and Ciragan Palace were both summer
commentary on the history of Istanbul and residences refreshed by cool river breezes.
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