Istanbul

Istanbul stands on the shores of the Bosphorus, the narrow straight between the Black Sea and Sea of Marmara.  The city links East and West by straddling the continents of Asia and Europe, with the European side also divided by the Golden Horn. With the shores rising to heights of up to 200m and lined with palaces, ruins, villages and gardens, this is one of the most beautiful stretches of scenery in Turkey.  The best way of seeing the Bosphorus in all its beauty is to take a trip on one of the coastal boats.

It is Istanbul’s variety that fascinates its visitors - the skyline of minarets and domes mingling with modern skyscrapers, the continual bustle and movement of the crowds and the cries of the street sellers mingling with the sounds of the ships in the busy port. 

You could visit Istanbul for the shopping alone. The Kapali Carsi, or covered bazaar, in the old city is a labyrinth of streets and passages housing more than 4,000 shops with something to suit every taste and pocket.  In the Misir Carsisi, or Spice Bazaar, enticing aromas of cinnamon, saffron, mint, thyme and other spices and herbs fill the air.   Turkish carpets, hand-painted ceramics, copper and brass ware, towels, and meerschaum pipes make attractive souvenirs and gifts. Contrasting with the chaos of the bazaars are the sophisticated and fashionable shops of the Taksim-Nisantasi-Sisli districts that sell elegant fashions made from Turkey's high quality textiles. Exquisite jewellery as well as fine leather goods can also be found.

Soak up the history of Istanbul - museums (Ayasofya Museum; Mosaic Museum), churches, palaces (Topkapi Palace), great mosques (Blue or Sultanahmet Mosque), bazaars and sights of natural beauty.

However long you stay, your time in this unforgettable city will be a unique experience