As one of the largest palaces in the world, the Topkapi Palace is a city within a city. Built by Sultan Mehmet II after the Conquest of Constantinople in 1453, the palace lies on top of ancient Byzantine ruins. It has since become a tourist attraction which offers stunning views of the Golden Horn , the Sea of Marmara and the Bosphorus Strait. In fact, there is much to see here. See the Harem, which has more than 400 rooms that were used to house the mother, wives and concubines of the sultan, as well as the Turkish baths, circumcision rooms and apartments for the black eunuchs.

Admire the fine collection of Chinese and Japanese porcelain in the kitchens. Do not miss the 86 carat Spoon Maker’s Diamond, the Topkapi Dagger, emeralds, thrones, gold candle sticks and even the relics of St. John the Baptist, which are all on display here. You can even smell the sweet scent of roses at the Baghdad, Revan or Sofa kiosk while you admire the beautiful seas. This palace truly is fit for a king.