Istanbul is the largest and most populated
city in Turkey, as well as its financial an cultural capital. It has a number of
places in and around it which are of
tourist interest.
Istanbul was founded by Constantine the Great on the site of the ancient Byzantium, and it was the capital of the the eastern Roman empire, the Byzantine empire, and the Ottoman empire. This makes for an unparalleled heritage, and
Istanbul is a magnet to many
tourists.
The
Istanbul Atatürk Airport has regular international flights, as well as the smaller
Sabiha Gökçen International Airport, which has low cost carrier flights coming from Europe.
Istanbul is also accessible by train from certain cities in Europe, as well as by road.
Places of interest in Istanbul are the
Hagia Sophia, a basilica constructed for a Byzantine emperor. It is a hallmark Byzantine architecture.
Topkaki Palace, the grand imperial enclave belonging to the Ottoman emperors.
Blue Mosque, still a functional mosque and with grand architecture
Hippodrome, the emblem of Roman and Byzantine superiority
Museum of archeology, which has a good collection of Sumerian tablets
Galata Tower, offers a birds-eye view of Istanbul
Chora Church, a Byzantine church, almost 1000 years old
Camlica Hill, one of the highest hills in Istanbul, and
Dolmabahce Palace, built by the Ottoman
A visit to the world famous Turkish baths is a must, as is tasting the equally famous dessert Turkish delight.
There are a number of budget, mid-range and luxury hotels and resorts in Istanbul, which provide all kinds of accommodation and amenities. A multitude of restaurants serve both traditional Turkish cuisine and international food.
