Istanbul, Turkey Cruise Port Guide

In 658 B.C., a group of Dorian European shores of the Bosphorus. Subsequently Byzantium entered into an alliance with Rome. Constantine united the two parts of the empire and declared Byzantium the new capital, known as Constantinople. The city reached the height of its splendor under the Emperor Justinian, sole head of church and state. As the capital of a vast empire for nearly 1,600 years, the city holds a great deal of historical interest.

Istanbul is divided by the Bosphorus, with a portion in Europe and a part in Asia. Most of the population lives on the European side.

The ship is scheduled to dock at either the Karakoy pier or the new terminal, Sali Pazari. Tour buses, shuttle buses and taxis are reached by walking through the terminal building. Major attractions lie within 20 to 30 minutes by taxi. There is usually a good supply outside the terminal building. Be sure to negotiate the fare before starting out.

Turkey is famous for its carpets, which come in all sizes, qualities and prices. Leather goods, jewelry and brassware are also good buys.

Inside the bazaar (closed on Sundays), some 4,000 shops offer a mind-boggling array of wares.

Istanbul boasts a number of excellent restaurants found mainly around Taksim Square (home, too, for McDonald's), the Etilera area, and along the shores of the Bosphorus. Grilled meats, primarily lamb, and excellent seafood are on many menus.

Suleymaniye Mosque. This is Turkey's finest Imperial mosque, built by the famous architect Sinan.

Klassis Golf & Country Club. This 18-hole, 73-par golf course was designed by one of the world's foremost golfers, Tony Jacklin. The number 2 hole is the most challenging hole of the course.