• Explore the Topkapi Palace Museum, also known as the Seraglio, which once served as the main residence and administrative headquarters of the Ottoman sultans in the 15th century. The palace was constructed by Mehmed the Conqueror beginning in 1459 following his conquest of Constantinople.

• Climb the Galata Tower, a 67-meter restored tower and former prison, overlooking the Bosphorus strait from a top-floor, fine dining restaurant.

• Wander the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art, featuring Turkish and international contemporary art collections and cinema.