Istanbul Breaks 2012

Blue Mosque, Istanbul | Image by Ali AlEfain

Capital of Turkey

The capital of Turkey is by no means just an old-fashioned city with its heyday in the past. It is often described as the bridge between Europe and Asia, but this exciting cultural mix now has a distinctly modern feel.

When to Visit

Optimal times to visit Istanbul are the seasons of spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October), when temperatures are lower and sunshine levels are high, and many of the biggest cultural festivals take place. Many residents of the city find the summer months oppressive and head to the coasts to escape the heat. Reaching the city is easy: Istanbul has two international airports, two large bus stations and two rail stations with international connections. Many day-trippers make use of the ferry service to explore the city – be sure to book your ticket long before departure. Within the city, there are plenty of taxis offering a wild ride; for more sedate transport, the bus and train systems are efficient and frequent.

Ancient Sites

Everywhere you turn in Istanbul, there are ancient marvels and romantic backdrops. The Old City’s seven hills, and the beautiful imperial mosques that stand atop them, dominate the skyline and make for spectacular sunsets. The Aya Sofya is one of the greatest architectural landmarks in the world, standing for centuries through the great empires that have governed Istanbul. The city’s bazaar district is also well worth a visit. If you don’t mind its bustling and chaotic atmosphere, wend your way through the labyrinthine streets toward the Spice Bazaar, a historic fixture. Street vendors peddle wares of every kind, from fish sandwiches and hot tea (Turkey’s national drink) to Turkish delight, rugs and fake designer watches.

Cultural Centre

In recent years Istanbul has promoted itself as a major center of culture. In Levant, the Museum of Contemporary Art aims to increase appreciation for Turkish art; and it is joined by Tophane’s Istanbul Modern museum, and the Pera Museum, both boasting world-class exhibitions. The International Istanbul Music Festival, which takes place mid-summer at Aya Irini, is the greatest event for opera and classical music in the city’s calendar.

Nightlife

At night, the city truly comes alive, as its famous superclubs draw out crowds of wealthy visitors. Head to Kuruce?me for indulgent surroundings, beautiful food, and luxury cocktails. Prices are steep, but the atmosphere and the chance to see the rich and famous out and about are well worth it. All this makes vibrant, thriving Istanbul an unforgettable experience.