Turkey · City Guide
Istanbul
Istanbul is one of the world's most extraordinary cities, a metropolis straddling two continents with over 2500 years of continuous settlement and a concentration of Byzantine, Ottoman and contemporary culture that creates an experience unlike any other destination. From the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace to the Grand Bazaar, the Bosphorus and the outstanding meyhane restaurant culture, Istanbul rewards every day of exploration with something genuinely remarkable.
Elect's take
"Istanbul is one of the cities that has moved me most in my travels. The combination of the Hagia Sophia's extraordinary interior, the energy of the bazaars, the beauty of the Bosphorus and the warmth of Turkish hospitality creates something that I find genuinely difficult to leave behind."
The Hagia Sophia is one of the world's greatest buildings, a 6th century Byzantine masterpiece of engineering and decoration that has served as church and mosque across 1500 years of history. Topkapi Palace, the administrative heart of the Ottoman Empire for 400 years, contains extraordinary collections of Islamic art, jewels and historic artefacts across a series of beautiful courtyards above the Bosphorus. The Grand Bazaar is one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets with over 4000 shops in an extraordinary architectural labyrinth. The Bosphorus cruise, passing between Europe and Asia through beautiful historic waterfront architecture, is one of the great urban waterway experiences in the world. The meyhane dining culture of Beyoglu and Karaköy, with raki, meze and fresh fish, is outstanding.
Best time to visit
How to get there
What to expect
Hagia Sophia
One of the world's greatest buildings, a Byzantine masterpiece of 1500 years of history.
Topkapi Palace
The administrative heart of the Ottoman Empire with extraordinary art and historical collections.
Grand Bazaar
One of the world's oldest and largest covered markets with over 4000 shops.
Bosphorus Cruise
A remarkable waterway journey between Europe and Asia past historic waterfront palaces.
Meyhane Culture
Istanbul's outstanding tradition of raki, meze and fresh fish in convivial restaurant settings.
Blue Mosque
The stunning 17th century Sultan Ahmed Mosque with its famous six minarets.
