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Clean cities and warm, kind people are just two of the reasons to make Istanbul your next destination. The long list of others includes touring magnificent palaces and ornate houses of worship guaranteed to keep history buffs busy for days.
Spanning two continents, Istanbul is situated on both sides of the Bosphorus, the slim strait located between the Black Sea and the Marmara Sea. Literally bridging Asia and Europe, Istanbul’s culinary splendor, museums, markets and people watching are exceptional.
So Much to See and Do
Considered the top four sites to see in Istanbul, Aya Sofya, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque and the Grand Bazaar, attract even the most monument-weary visitors from all over the globe.
The Aya Sofya is a mosque commissioned by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian to exclaim the wealth and technical ability of his empire to the world. The dazzling structure is considered one of Istanbul’s most cherished landmarks.
Set aside at least half a day to fully experience Topkapi Palace. The vast structure is a radiant display of Islamic art, sparkling courtyards lined with hand-painted tile-work connecting sensational rooms bound by a fortress of walls and towers. Palace highlights include the Harem, the Palace Kitchens and the Imperial Treasury embellished with numerous glittering gold objects.
Built in the early 1600’s, the Blue Mosque, aka the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, was constructed to reaffirm the Ottoman rule following Turkey’s losses to Persia. It’s classical Ottoman architecture is a standout in Istanbul. Named for its alluring interior featuring thousands of iznik tiles creating a color effect which awes visitors. At dusk, the call to prayer echoes from the Mosque, radiating a peaceful ambiance over the city.
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After immersing yourself in the grandeur of the sites, you’ll want to experience the amazing shopping in Istanbul and the Grand Bazaar is where everyone goes for it. The expansive covered market takes up a whole city quarter and is surrounded by impressive walls. Eleven different gates welcome visitors to the Grand Bazaar, revealing a network of vaulted-ceiling walkways lined with shops and stalls offering every type of Turkish souvenir or handcrafted item you could ever desire. The culture’s various trades are divided by section making navigation a delightful experience.