Istanbul is as an international centre for shops, restaurants and culture at an affordable price. Every year more and more visitors gravitate towards Istanbul, the only city in the world surrounded by Asia as well as Europe.
The former capital of Turkey's Ottoman Empire - as well as Roman and Byzantine rule - Istanbul offers a unique variety of historical sights and authentic cultural attractions. It's also a vibrant modern city with a seemingly inexhaustible supply of night life. Highlights include fascinating museums, churches, palaces, mosques, bazaars and some stunning sunsets over the unforgettable beauty of the Bosphorus strait.
Istanbul International Ataturk Airport is 20 km from the city centre.
Direct bus connections available from all parts of Turkey.
Rail network connects to European capitals as well as Ankara and other Turkish cities.
Istanbul port offers transport to and from major European ports.
Istanbul is a popular destination for cruise ships.
Opulent Topkapi Palace is the number one tourist attraction in Istanbul. The palace was home to the Ottoman Sultans for 400 years. Attractions inside include four ornate courtyards, the palace's spacious grounds and the Sultan's Treasury full of jewels, gold and works of art. There is also the Sultan's Harem.
Prior to St Peter's Basilica in Rome being built this was the grandest Church in Christendom and many still believe it to be the most impressive. This awe-inspiring structure boasts 30 million tiny mozaic tiles covering the interior.
A superb collection of Greek and Roman antiquities, including artefacts from Troy. Fee includes entrance for the Museum of the Ancient Orient and the Tiled Pavilion with its ancient ceramics.
This is the essential Turkish shopping experience where you will find hand made carpets, tiles, leather goods and all manner of items to haggle over. Turkey's largest covered market is reputed to have 4,000 shops.
A treasure trove of beautiful and ornate objects from ancient Turkish civilisation until today. Exhibits include ancient Calligraphy, carpets and intricately carved objects of art.
Sited on the shores of the Bosphorus the Sultan's modern palace is as breathtakingly opulent as the ancient version. There are 285 rooms, 43 large salons and a 4000 kg Bohemian glass chandelier to grab your attention.
Called the Blue Mosque due to its interior tiles the best view of this impressive building is on the outside. Six minarets and a multitude of domes means the Blue Mosque competes with the Church of The Divine Wisdom for its astounding beauty.
Istanbul was previously known as Constantinople.
In 2010 Istanbul will be the European Capital of Culture.
Istanbul is hot and humid in summer but expect cold, rain and snow in winter.
