We begin exploring this fascinating city with a visit to Topkapi Palace. Perched on a promontory overlooking the Golden Horn, you’re perfectly placed to get a handle on the city’s physical geography from this vantage point where the Marmara Sea meets the Bosphorus. The Ottoman sultans lived in Topkapi Palace from the 15th to the 19th century but for almost a century it’s been open to the public as a museum, allowing visitors a glimpse of its harem and courtyards.

With a varied history as a mosque, church and museum, Hagia Sophia is no less compelling. Its ornate calligraphy is nothing short of magnificent.

Nearby the Blue Mosque, so called for the Iznik tiles that grace its interior, is another must-see.

You’ll also visit the Byzantine Hippodrome, which once hosted chariot races, and the atmospheric Basilica Cistern, an abandoned reservoir hidden in plain sight beneath the streets of the Old Town.

On our second day, we spread our wings and discover more of this captivating city. We’ll take you to the Egyptian Bazaar which dates from the 17th century and is home to spice traders selling fresh mint, cardamom and cinnamon alongside boxes of Turkish Delight. Though popular with tourists, locals also come to restock their cupboards. Across the square, fishermen will be casting their rods off the Galata Bridge just as their fathers and grandfathers did. Board a sightseeing cruise to travel up the Bosphorus.

Board a sightseeing cruise to travel up the Bosphorus. Elegant palaces and mansions occupy riverside spots, including the Dolmabahçe Palace, Beylerbeyi Palace, Çırağan Palace and Rumeli Fortress. Relax as this historic panorama glides slowly by, giving you plenty of time to take in the fresh air from your deck chair.