Once the capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, Istanbul will entertain you with the diversity of its rich architectural legacy. From ancient cathedrals, sultans’ palaces, whirling dervishes and the Grand Bazaar, be prepared to be whisked into an era of opulence and intrigue. The ‘Capital’ perched upon several hills, surrounded by a great wall, awaits to treat you with its grand variety of exotic foods and pastries.