Traveling To Istanbul

The only city on the planet that is in both Asia and Europe, Istanbul also straddles the ancient and modern worlds.

The very best method to experience Istanbul is to enable unscheduled wandering in between sees to historical sites and museums. Increase early enough to take part of the prominent Turkish breakfast. And ride the ferryboats, frequently. They're not just a method to get from here to there; on a ferryboat you can rest feet tired from sightseeing, drink tea, or consume a grilled-cheese sandwich and take in the best views of throughout the city.

The ghosts of marauding Crusaders and marching janissaries haunt the city's historical alleyways-- however this is traveling in istanbul no museum: the Bosporus is still a buzzing artery for maritime trade, and the noises of building construction play a constant counterpoint to the shouts of street hawkers and the call of the muezzin. There are numerous reasons visitors return consistently: the setting is extraordinary, best on the Sea of Marmara and astride the hectic Bosporus Strait. And Istanbul's skyline is a spectacular mélange of domes, turrets, medieval towers, and office complex looming over low-rise property structures.

Today the cultural and financial center of Turkey, Istanbul has actually been the capital of three empires-- Byzantine, Roman, and Ottoman. Our Istanbul travel guide integrates the best of Istanbul old and brand-new.