Turkey’s capital city,
Istanbul is host to almost 14 million people and is a melting pot of
vibrant culture, fabulous buildings and friendly locals. Sights, sounds
and smells abound in this city of two parts. Split by the Bosphorus
Strait, the city is divided into Asian and European influences making it
a cultural wonder to behold.
You can tour across some of these fantastic structures, such as the
Hagia Sophia, the Sultanahmet Mosque and the Basilica Cistern.
You may be partial to Paris or smitten with San Francisco, but
there’s no denying that nature has generously blessed Istanbul.
Istanbul’s yellow cabs are a great bargain – which is just as well in a
city where the bus system is a bit of a puzzle.
Turkey’s capital is the only city in the world to straddle two
continents – a trip across the Bosphorous Bridge takes you from Europe
to Asia. Holidays in Istanbul absolutely must include a trip to the
amazing mosques dotted throughout the city where the skyline is dappled
with minarets and turrets, domes and cupolas.
The
best time to visit Istanbul
is September to November. That’s when the crowds diminish, the rates
drop, and weather is spectacular. Peak season – summer – sees spikes in
temperatures and room rates. To save money and sweat less, visit
Istanbul in the spring or fall.
Hundreds of small
restaurants offer
tastes of Trabzon, Gaziantep, Van and the rest of the country while a
growing number of international kitchens extend the culinary variety
beyond Turkey’s borders. This rooftop restaurant-bar in a glass-walled
penthouse is one of the city’s trendiest spots.
