Travel Istanbul Guide

Formerly Constantinople, the glorious city of Istanbul is perhaps the most richly historical and fascinating city in Europe. Straddling two continents, split between Europe and Asia by the Bosphorus, Istanbul is a unique blend of cultures. Istanbul's famous skyline is dotted with the domes of mosques and accompanied by a soundtrack of the haunting chant of the city's many Imams. One can watch the sunset over the Aegean from the towers of Topkapi Palace and imagine the splendor of this most ancient and beautiful city.

Istanbul is home to the Hagia Sofia, the great church of Constantinople. At the time it was built, around the year 500, this was the largest Christian church in the world. Now home to a Christian museum endlessly stunning murals, the Hagia Sofia may be the oldest and grandest building you ever have the pleasure of exploring.

Istanbul's Blue Mosque is slightly younger than the Hagia Sofia, but equally magnificent. Built during the Ottoman Empire, the Blue Mosque is so named because of the blue tiles which cover the inside of the building. The large domes and spires make the Blue Mosque the most prominent feature of Istanbul's skyline and the building itself appears to be taking flight. The mosque is a working mosque, is free to enter and closes down for service every day.

Women and men can enjoy (though separately) a traditional Turkish bath house. Many Turkish baths are housed in buildings as many as 500 years old with high ceilings and gorgeous tile work. A Turkish bath consists of large rooms with cascading fountains, marble floors and benches, tubs of water and employees who scrub years of dirt off of your body. Though often washed only with traditional oils, you will leave the baths feeling relaxed and cleaner than ever.

While in Istanbul, take a walk to the coast to enjoy a fresh fish kebab, or stop at one of the many 1 Lire lamb kebab stands which line the streets of the city. Turkish food may be some of the freshest and most delicious in the world. Fresh tomatoes, garlic, eggplant, lamb, figs, apricots, grapes, pistachios and lentils are just a few of the foods which make up Turkish cuisine. Stop in one of Istanbul's many hookah cafés and enjoy a cup of strong Turkish coffee or apple tea and a baklava.

Istanbul is an enchanting city of spires, rugs, smoke, delicious smells and ancient history. Istanbul is truly one of the world's great treasures.