Istanbul's rich heritage spans the centuries from Christian Byzantium to Muslim Ottoman rule to today's thriving city. In this new episode of Rick Steves' Europe, we start our look back at the Roman-tinged Hippodrome, then indulge in the ancient ritual of the Turkish bath. We take in the Blue Mosque and the grand Hagia Sophia, taste Turkish delight at the venerable Spice Market, and explore Topkapı Palace and its harem room deep within. Check your local public television station for airdates and

Traveling is intensified living with moments that are transformative experiences — we call them “wow” moments. From taking in Tuscan sunsets on our Village Italy Tour to hiking the Plitvice Lakes National Park on the Best of the Adriatic Tour, our itineraries brim with unforgettable art, food, history, nature, and people. If you’re ready for your own wow moment but aren’t sure if a Rick Steves’ Europe tour is right for you, join our free Tours 101 session on Wednesday, August 20th at 6pm, PT. Th