Turkey Istanbul Shopping Guide

The only city worldwide that is in both Asia and Europe, Istanbul likewise straddles the ancient and modern worlds.

The very best method to experience Istanbul is to allow for unscheduled wandering in between sees to historical sites and museums. Rise early enough to take part of the renowned Turkish breakfast. And ride the ferries, frequently. They're not simply a method to obtain from here to there; on a ferry you can rest feet weary from sightseeing, drink tea, or eat a grilled-cheese sandwich and take in the best views of anywhere in the city.

The ghosts of marauding Crusaders and marching janissaries haunt the city's historic alleyways-- but this is no museum: the Bosporus is still a buzzing artery for maritime trade, and the noises of structure construction play a constant counterpoint to the shouts of street hawkers and the call of the muezzin. There are several reasons visitors return consistently: the setting is extraordinary, ideal on the Sea of Marmara and astride the hectic Bosporus Strait. And Istanbul's horizon is a sensational mélange of domes, turrets, middle ages towers, and office complex towering above low-rise property structures.

Today the cultural and monetary center of Turkey, Istanbul has actually been the capital of three empires-- traveling in istanbul Byzantine, Roman, and Ottoman. Our Istanbul travel guide combines the best of Istanbul old and new.