Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul is literally where East meets West, sitting at the point where Europe and Asia touch. It's a place of mosques and minarets, sultans' treasures, crowded bazaars, and holy Christian landmarks -- and it's also a chaotic modern city, teeming with energy and looking forward to its country's eventual entry into the European Union. The senses spring to life here, through the smell of the spice market, the taste of traditional Turkish dishes, the feel of a Turkish carpet, and the sound of muezzins chanting the call to prayer. Everywhere you look, museums, palaces, and grand mosques and churches attest to the city's glorious history as the capital of three successive empires -- the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman.

Coming Ashore in Istanbul:

Most ships dock at either Karakoy or the Sali Pazari Passenger Terminal; both are centrally located but still about a 20- to 30-minute taxi ride from the city's main attractions.

Getting Around in Istanbul:

Taxis -- yellow, metered, and relatively inexpensive -- wait to pick up passengers, and you'll find plenty more of them traveling throughout the city. Always negotiate the fare before hopping in. Bus and tram services are available, and cruise lines usually provide free shuttle buses to downtown, dropping you off near the expensive rug shops.

The best way to explore the old section of the city is on foot. All of the monuments are within walking distance of each other. It's a healthy walk from the pier to the Blue Mosque, and with all the crazy drivers and the generally hectic pace, you're best off taking the shuttle offered by the cruise line, or a cab.