There are quite a lot of interesting big cities with a long history in and around Old Europe, which tourists customarily choose as their holiday destinations: Paris, Rome, Lisbon and many others. However, there is only one that will surely make them come back again and again – Istanbul, the city of wonders connecting the two continents.
Messy, chaotic, confused and monumentous, Istanbul is full of contrasts. Being at the same time historic and modern, European and Asian, it is a home of ancient monuments like the Hagia Sofia and the Blue Mosque, where the bazaars and the scent of spices and incense in the Old Town fuse with modern businesses, hotels and restaurants.
The traditions inherited from over 2 500 years of history are most visible in the Old City, also known as Sultanahmet. Even a short walk through the peninsula will reveal all the greatest excesses of the Byzantine Empire, as well as the mystique of the Ottoman Empire. As a religious center, Istanbul is also the custodian of world's most important cultural heritages.
Across the Golden Horn is the modern heart of the city. This part of Istanbul projects itself into the rest of the world as Turkey's ambassador of art, entertainment and education.
If you have a few days make sure you also see the Sultanahemet district. Begin your trip with a visit to the Ayasofya, the Yerebatan Cistern and the Blue Mosque. Don't forget to visit the Grand (or Covered) Bazaar (Kapari Carsisi), which suposedly contains over 4 000 shops. This vast collection of streets, restaurants and teahouses is a unique place where bargaining for goods is a standard. It is a mandatory stop on any itinerary in Istanbul. If you still have some time, visit the Topkapi Palace and the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, or head to the Mosaic Museum, end the afternoon at a hamam and spend the rest of the evening in the tea garden of your choice. Among other places and historical monuments that shouldn't be missed are The Sultan Ahmet Mosque, Yerebatan Cistern and the famous Hagia Sofia. The Bosphoruos cruise to Anadolu Kavagi would also be relaxing. The spectrum of choices that the city offers is incredible. Whatever the season and the weather there is always something to do and see in Istanbul!
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