Straddling two continents, Istanbul's European side may be more well-known, but its Asian side is definitely worth exploring. The Ottomans captured Istanbul in the 15th century and the Asian side of the city grew and prospered, with many new neighborhoods and palaces being built. One of the most famous Ottoman landmarks is Beylerbeyi Palace, he largest and most elegant Ottoman Palace on the Asian shore of the Bosphorus. Built in an ornate Baroque style in the 19th century as a summer residence for the sultan, it attracted such guests as the Duke and Duchess of Windsor and Empress Eugenie of France. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through the Palace, explaining the many sumptuous and magnificent details. As you tour this magnificent building, you'll see all its attractive features such as the reception hall with its pool and fountain; the large Bohemian crystal chandeliers and the beautiful Turkish carpets.