In Istanbul, you will get a European flavor with a mixture of Islamic heritage. The city is full with mosques from the Ottoman Empire and historic building. But it does not lose the touch of modern European lifestyle; especially in the recent decades, numerous restaurants, galleries, bars, fashion houses and museums have been common around the city.
The best thing about this city is its architectural background. You will see the ancient European design along with the Russian orthodox style; and to make it even perfect, the Islamic architectural concepts in their buildings. This is one of the only few cities in the world that has such a prestigious honor.
Must go places in Istanbul
Blue Mosque
You can start with the Blue Mosque. This mosque is the number one landmark in the city with its minarets and attractive pizazza in abundance. This place is known for the historical as well as scenic beauty. Sultan Ahmet I established this mosque, and he himself worked with the workers during the construction. According to most tourists, this is the best tourist spot in Istanbul.
Topkapi Place
If you are interested in the life of the Muslim rulers of Turkey, you must have a through visit to the Topkapi Place. This palace was the home several members in the royal families of the country including Selim the Sot, Ibrahim and Roxelana. Now there is a museum in the palace which will take over half a day for exploring in details.
Kapali Carsi
In the Grand Bazaar or the Kapali Carsi, you will get the feeling of marketing in mid 15th century. You can find anything in this market, and while you are buying, do not forget the world famous mid eastern fabrics. Even if you do not buy anything from there, just the visit will be a life time experience for you.
Night at Bosphorus
If you mistake Istanbul as a day time adventure spot, you are totally mistaken. Just take a ferry of Bosphorus at night. You will realize how romantic the city can be. A magnificent view of the Old City, on the background of starlit sky, will give you a memory to remember for the rest of your life.
Istanbul Archaeology Museums
If you are at Topkapi, take out a little time to pay a visit to the Istanbul Archaeology Museums. There you will see numerous items from the old time which will be able to catch your attention.
Princes' Island
Do no miss the only island of the city- the Princes' Island. Keep a whole day for this superb island tour, which is located in the Sea of Marmara, only 20km from the city.
Kiz Kulesi
Kiz Kulesi is one of the most important landmarks in Istanbul which is located near the Aian mainland. You can reach there by a ferry. Kiz Kulesi was designed with the 18th century style on a tiny island.
Chora Church
The Chora Church is a creation from the Byzantine time. Constantine the Great built this church and it is also known as the Church of the Holy Savior Outside the Walls.
Adventure, magnificence and culture: you will find all of them in Istanbul. This is the only place where you will get both European and Asian experience at the same time. So mark Istanbul today as your next tourist destination.
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