Istanbul, a city straddling two continents, is brimming with exotic surprises. Istanbul holidays give you front-row seats to grand palaces, bustling bazaars, and a foodie scene celebrated worldwide. Istanbul straddles the Bosphorus Strait on the Asian and European sides, one of the world's great cities. Artworks complement the dramatic architecture from the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires. Istanbul holidays invite you to experience significant historical relics that blend seamlessly with modern attractions to suit every traveller. Istanbul's entertainment scene If you enjoy opera, folk music, art exhibitions, and museum visits, Istanbul, Turkey's largest city, has plenty to offer. Asian Istanbul is well-known for its unique cafe culture, cool neighbourhoods, and street art. Glitzy nightclubs coexist with hookah lounges and concert halls on the European side. Whether you visit in the festival-filled spring or the golden haze of autumn, Istanbul is always putting on a show. Capital: Istanbul International Airport: Istanbul Airport (IST) Population- 15,415,197 Currency- Turkish lira Time: İstanbul, Turkey (GMT+3) Driving side- Right Main Electricity- 220V Official Language- Turkish Religion- Sunni Muslims and Alevism
When you visit this magnificent Byzantine basilica, history comes alive. Your visit to this opulent Ottoman palace complex on the peninsula of Istanbul's Old City will reveal the secrets of the seraglio. Climbing aboard one of Istanbul's famous flotillas of ferries is a must-do experience. The chaotic and colourful Grand Bazaar is the most well-known shopping destination on the historic peninsula, but it is far from alone. Süleyman, the Magnificent's most notable architectural legacy, dominating the Old City skyline, certainly lives up to its patron's name. Breathtaking views of the Bosphorus and Old City from the rooftop terraces of a slew of glitzy bars are just one of the attractions in bohemian Beyolu. Kariye Museum tucked away in the shadow of Theodosius II's massive land walls, is a tiny Byzantine building located in the city's less-visited Western Districts.