EXPLORE THE TURKEY ISTANBUL
Istanbul has a long and fascinating history, dating back to the 7th century BC. The city was founded by the Greeks as Byzantium, and it later became the capital of the Roman Empire. In 330 AD, the Roman emperor Constantine I renamed the city Constantinople, and it remained the capital of the Byzantine Empire for over a thousand years.
In 1453, the Ottoman Empire conquered Constantinople, and the city became the new Ottoman capital. The Ottomans ruled Istanbul for nearly five centuries, and they left behind a legacy of stunning architecture and culture.
“To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries.”
Aldous Huxley
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Culture
Istanbul is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from Turkey, the Middle East, and Europe. The city is home to a variety of mosques, churches, and synagogues, as well as museums, art galleries, and theaters
Istanbul is also known for its vibrant nightlife and delicious food. The city has a wide range of restaurants, serving everything from traditional Turkish cuisine to international fare.
Things to do
There are many things to see and do in Istanbul. Here are just a few of the highlights:
- Hagia Sophia: This former church and mosque is one of the most iconic buildings in the world. It is now a museum, and it is a must-see for any visitor to Istanbul.
- Blue Mosque: This beautiful mosque is one of the largest mosques in Turkey. It is known for its six minarets and its stunning blue tiles.
- Topkapi Palace: This former Ottoman palace is now a museum, and it houses a collection of Ottoman treasures, including jewelry, weapons, and clothing.
- Grand Bazaar: This ancient market is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. It is a great place to shop for souvenirs and Turkish handicrafts.
- Spice Bazaar: This colorful market is a great place to buy spices, herbs, and other Turkish culinary delights.
- Bosphorus Cruise: A Bosphorus cruise is a great way to see Istanbul from a different perspective. Cruises depart from several locations in the city, and they offer stunning views of the city skyline, the Bosphorus Strait, and the surrounding hills.
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Food
Istanbul is known for its delicious food. Here are a few of the must-try dishes:
- Kebab: Kebab is a popular Turkish dish made from grilled meat. There are many different types of kebabs, but some of the most popular include döner kebab, şiş kebab, and adana kebab.
- Baklava: Baklava is a sweet pastry made with layers of filo dough, nuts, and honey. It is a popular dessert in Turkey and other Middle Eastern countries.
- Döner kebab: Döner kebab is a type of kebab made from meat that is cooked on a rotating spit. It is typically served in a pita bread sandwich with vegetables and sauce.
- Şiş kebab: Şiş kebab is a type of kebab made from cubes of meat that are skewered and grilled. It is typically served with rice or bulgur wheat.
- Adana kebab: Adana kebab is a type of kebab made from ground beef that is mixed with spices and grilled. It is typically served with rice or bulgur wheat.
Getting there
Istanbul is a major international hub, and it is well-connected to cities all over the world. Istanbul Atatürk Airport and Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport are the two main airports in the city.
Once you arrive in Istanbul, you can take a taxi, bus, or metro to your hotel. The Istanbul Metro is a convenient way to get around the city, and it has a wide network of stations.
Where to stay
Istanbul has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Some of the most popular neighborhoods to stay in include Sultanahmet, Beyoğlu, and Taksim Square.
When to go
The best time to visit Istanbul is during the spring (April-June) or fall (September-October) when the weather is mild and sunny. Summers in Istanbul can be very hot and humid, and winters can be cold and rainy.
Tips
- Dress conservatively: Istanbul is a Muslim-majority city, so it is important to dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Be prepared to bargain: Bargaining is common in Istanbul, especially at markets and bazaars. Don’t be afraid to haggle with sellers to get a good price.
