Istanbul, previously called Constantinople, is on everyone's travel list. Visiting town with a private guide maximizes a while and delight. It allows you to want within the key attractions at a relaxed pace and luxuriate within the ambiance. Istanbul's location, at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, make it one in every of the world's most cosmopolitan cities; additionally mutually stuffed with an elegant Byzantine history. Gourmet dining, interesting architecture along with one in all a form shopping bring the discriminating traveler back time after time.
Your touring list should include:
(1) The Blue Mosque has become one all told the foremost popular attractions within the town. It is the national mosque of Turkey and named after the blue tiles adorning the within walls. It is the sole imperial mosque with six minarets.
(2) The truly breathtaking Hagia Sophia was first a Byzantine Church, then an Ottoman Mosque and now a Turkish museum. Today the mosaic walls and vaulted chambers merely hint at its former glory. The incredible mosaics and frescos within the upper gallery are among the foremost visited within the town.
(3) The Hippodrome was the center of events in ancient Istanbul. Imagine the centuries of rowdy chariot races, gladiator fights and royal celebrations that happened on these grounds. During modern celebrations the trees above the park are strung with white lights and temporary tents, full of traditional food are along the perimeter. The Obelisk, near the center of the Hippodrome could also be a 13th century, solid block of granite, weighing over 60 tons, which was moved to Istanbul by Emperor Theodosius; from the temple of Luxor in Egypt.
(4) Topkapi Palace was once the seat of Ottoman power for 3 centuries. A minimum of a half daily is required to explore the Palace. Insider's Tip: The must see's are The Harem, Imperial Treasury and also the views of the innermost courtyard.
(5) Go loco for Lokum (Turkish Delights)! The Egyptian Spice Bazaar is also a novel shopping experience; give yourself a pair of hours to wander through the alley ways and stalls. Visit one in all the most effective deli's, known for its honeycomb and Turkish cheeses. Move through the market to sample excellent Turkish Delights (sugared candies in assorted flavors - including pistachio!), honey covered mulberries, dried figs crammed with walnuts, assorted spices and finally, Turkish coffee!
(6) Enjoy a favorite of guests, a half or full day Bosphorus River cruise. a relaxing way of getting across one in every of the world's busiest waterways and seeing some major sights along the way! See the attractive waterside houses, lush parks and mansions while sitting back and enjoying your favorite drink. get on my feet close and sail under the Bosphorus bridge, view the Ottoman elite and also the Sultan's beautiful gingerbread palaces and hunting lodges.
(7) The Grand Bazaar is one of the foremost famous markets within the planet. The official name in Turkey is Kapali Carsi, and it is also called the covered market. The Grand Bazaar was constructed shortly after the conquest of Constantinople. Today it houses over 4,000 shops, with a limiteless type of goods. If you can't find it here; you are doing not need it!
(8) Be a sultan for an hour or two at the Dolmabahce Palace. The Palace, with its white marble facade is striking when viewed from the water; but it's trumped by the within. The work of French decorator, Sechan, who worked on the Paris theater, might be a requirement see. This historical building gives opulence a full new meaning. Imagine a home with 285 rooms, 6 baths, 68 toilets and a ceiling manufactured from 14 lots of gold! Dolmabahce Palace is one such marvelous structure. Insiders Tip: together with your guided tour you'll make sure to work out the crystal chandelier, crystal staircase and original bearskin rug!
(9) Try the local cuisine. Authentic Turkish cuisine could also be a far cry from kebabs over rice. Prepare your palate for a combination of culinary influences. Expect grilled meats and fish, combinations mixed with rice, almonds and pistachios. Extensive menus with an exquisite selection of mezes (Read: appetizer size portions) include gourmet treats with shrimp, octopus, lamb and eggplant. The wine selections from Turkey are 'award winning' good and available throughout the wine bars and restaurants within the town.
(10) Last but not least, the infamous Turkish carpets! Turkish handmade carpets and rugs are known worldwide for his or her rich colors, intricate designs and brilliant craftsmanship. they're the foremost wanted items by collectors and museums. One place in Istanbul where you will find out about the kinds and production is that the Museum of Turkish Carpets, located across from the Ibrahim Pasha Palace.
Contemporary excitement makes Istanbul one of the foremost popular destinations around. It is the foremost eastern part of Europe and also the foremost western a part of Asia. Come and knowledge the historic, the unique and modern beat one fascinating city. Istanbul makes for an exquisite city stay and if you chose, use it as a base that to start your touring through Turkey.
A short flight to Cappadocia to travel to the chimney houses, cave hotels and take a hot air balloon ride over the unique landscape is amazing. Another short hop to travel to Kusadasi, the port city, with a straightforward drive to travel to Ephesus; to appear at other historic ruins is well definitely worth the trip. and finally a beach stay in Bodrum, to relax before your departure home.
All in all, Turkey is also a 1 altogether a kind destination, offering such plenty to see and experience! Take your bite and savor it slowly.
As Turkey tour planner family, we serve with our successful team to grant you an incredible travel experience. In our guided tour, you will have rather more information that's not included in our article. Enjoy the best guided tour of Turkey. We recommend you to review our page for Turkey tour packages. you will always contact us for more detailed information.
