There is no city like Istanbul. Situated on two different continents, Europe and Asia, it is a city of vast cultural and historical significance. Straddling the Bosphorus Strait, it is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. From its vibrant markets to its awe-inspiring mosques, there is much to see and do in Istanbul. Here are five reasons why Istanbul makes an excellent city break destination.
1. There's Plenty to See
Istanbul is a city steeped in history and culture. There are many things to see in this vibrant city. The Blue Mosque, with its striking blue tiles and six minarets, is a must-see for any visitor to Istanbul. Other mosques worth visiting include the Hagia Sophia, the Sultan Ahmed Mosque and the Rustem Pasha Mosque. If you're interested in history, don't miss the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, which showcases artefacts from across the Muslim world, or the Topkapi Palace, home of Ottoman sultans for over 400 years. For a taste of modern Istanbul, head to the Bosphorus Bridge, which spans the Bosphorus Strait, or Taksim Square, the city's main square.
2. There's Lots to Do
There is no shortage of things to do in Istanbul. Explore the city's winding streets on a guided walking tour, take a cruise down the Bosphorus Strait or visit one of Istanbul's lively bazaars for some bargains. If you're feeling adventurous, why not take a day trip to one of Turkey's beautiful coastal towns or go skiing in the Turkish mountains? For a truly unique experience, try a traditional Turkish bath. Istanbul is also home to many excellent museums and galleries, so be sure to set aside some time to visit them.
3. Getting There is Easy
Istanbul is well-connected to the rest of the world and can be easily reached by air. Turkish Airlines, the national carrier of Turkey, offers flights to Istanbul from many cities in the UK. The flight time is around 3 hours, making it an easy journey. There are also a number of low-cost airlines that fly to Istanbul, so there is something to suit every budget.
4. Istanbul Has a Wide Variety of Hotels
Istanbul is a city with something to suit everyone, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing where to stay. If you're looking for a centrally located hotel with easy access to all the sights and sounds of Istanbul, the old city district of Sultanahmet is a good option. If you want to be close to the trendy bars and restaurants of Taksim Square, the Beyoglu neighbourhood is a good choice. There are also plenty of hotels in the modern Besiktas district near the Bosphorus Strait. Prices vary depending on location and type of accommodation, but there are plenty of options available for every budget.
5. The Food is Amazing!
Istanbul is a city with a rich and varied culinary tradition. There is no shortage of excellent restaurants in the city, serving up a wide range of Turkish cuisine. If you're looking for something hearty and filling, try a kebab or a traditional Turkish dish like döner kebap. If you're after something lighter, Istanbul's many cafes serve up delicious Turkish coffee and pastries. For a real treat, head to one of the city's rooftop restaurants for some stunning views of the cityscape.
If you're looking for an exciting city break in a city with a rich and varied history, Istanbul is the perfect destination. With its mosques, bazaars and restaurants, there is something to suit everyone's taste. Istanbul is well-connected to the rest of the world and can be easily reached by air from many UK cities. There are plenty of accommodation options available in all parts of the city, so you're sure to find somewhere to stay that suits you. So what are you waiting for? Book your flight to Istanbul today!
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