Istanbul Itinerary

Istanbul is a unique city. It is the only city in the world that lies on the border of two continents: Asia and Europe. Istanbul usually has a high level of humidity, especially during its hot summers, when temperature degrees average in the 80s. The winters tend to be colder and rainy, with temperatures as low as 40 degrees. Historically, Istanbul has played a very prominent role, having been the capital of the Byzantine Empire and later the Ottoman Empire. Even today it has not lost its importance in the region; it still functions as an important business center in Turkey.

The rich cultural and religious legacy of Istanbul remains evident today through its numerous monuments and historical buildings that continue to attract tourists from around the world. The Hagia Sophia, a dome-shaped museum, began as a cathedral in the 6th century, but was adapted as a mosque the 1400s after Mehmet’s conquest. Tourists from around the world are attracted to it for its impressive structure and artwork. The Blue Mosque is another such structure. Dating from the beginning of the seventeenth century, it is one of the most imposing and significant structures of the Ottoman era. Named for the blue tiles that grace its inner walls, the Blue Mosque is still an active place of worship today for many Muslims in the region, a living reminder of Istanbul’s important role in religious history. Another popular area of interest is the Topkapi Sarayi – the Palace Museum. Also known as the Sultan’s Palace, the royal residence has figured prominently in the city’s history as the headquarters of the Ottoman Empire. Tourists visit the richly decorated palace to see, among other things, the royal chambers and the harem, where sultans used to keep their hundreds of wives.

Istanbul is famous for its bazaars. The Grand Bazaar is a lively place, worth going to if only for the shopping experience that is unlike any other. The shops and stands that line the streets number in the thousands, and tourists have an opportunity to bargain over the prices of local goods and souvenirs. For those who cannot get enough of the bazaar experience, the Spice Bazaar – which sells spices, nuts, dried fruits, and perfumes, among other things – is a further source of enjoyment. Istanbul’s currency is the New Turkish Lira (YTL). It is used in notes of 1 YTL, 5 YTL, 10 YTL, 20 YTL, 50 YTL, and 100 YTL. There are plenty of areas in the city for currency exchange, and most of the larger establishments accept U.S. dollars and Euros.