To begin our day we ventured down Istiklal Caddesi Street, one of the main walking streets through Istanbul, the only cars are those delivering goods to store fronts. It begins at Taksim square and winds down to the water. Venders lined the streets offering a traditional pastry called Simit, DELICIOUS, which resembles a skinny bagel covered in sesame seeds and served warm. We had a few of those cause they were only 1 lira!!! Many of the stores on this roughly over one mile stretch of street we recognized as American brands. Taking one of the tips from Shannon, we ventured off the main drag to the fish bazaar which was absolutely amazing, fresh fish everywhere. We mainly just window shopped though we were beckoned into almost every store with every line in the book. At the end of the street is Galata Tower. The tower was built in 1348, originally named the Tower of Christ, it was the highest point in the city walls of the Genoese colony called Galata. We grabbed a quick coffee at the base then took the elevator to the top to take in the amazing panoramic view of the city. After we descended we crossed the water walking on the lower tier of the bridge where a series of fish vendors take shop. On the other side we enjoyed some roasted chestnuts. We also took a quick look around at the Topkapi Palace that was the primarily residence of the Ottoman Sultans from around 1400 to the mid-1800s. 
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