Istanbul

Historically known as Byzantium and Constantinople, Istanbul is the largest Turkish city and the country’s economic, historic and cultural engine. The strategic city straddles the Bosporus strait, which separates Europe and Asia, and was once up a time the most important destination along the ancient Silk Road. Many merchants and travelers decided that they enjoyed Istanbul and decided to stay, resulting in the vast cultural diversity that’s reflected to this day. Plenty of civilizations have left their own lasting stamp on Istanbul and the metropolis remains as a living testament to its storied history with its legacy of artefacts and architecture.

Not only does Istanbul straddle the East and West like no other, but also ancient and modern. Though Istanbul has changed hands several times, each ruler has only added to the architectural and artistic splendor of previous empires. Between the sublime glorious domes of the Hagia Sophia to the grandiose Topkapi Palace of the Ottoman Sultan to the nearby Roman, Greek and Roman and Byzantine ruins, history comes to life in Istanbul. Elsewhere, the vibrant street life can only be described as contagious, felt equally in the color and energy of the Grand Bazaar to the tastes and aromas of a traditional Turkish kebab.

Summers are a very popular time to visit Istanbul but the temperatures can often be uncomfortably hot and humid. Spring and fall are not only more pleasant weather-wise, but fewer visitors means shorter lines at major tourist sites. If you want to do as the locals do, head to a çay bahçesi (tea garden) to sip on traditional Turkish tea or coffee, and smoking through a water pipe. These atmosphere-rich venues are a common meeting point for friends after work and on the weekends.