Visiting Istanbul In January

The only city in the world that is in both Asia and Europe, Istanbul likewise straddles the ancient and modern-day worlds.

The best method to experience Istanbul is to allow for unscheduled roaming in between sees to historical sites and museums. Increase early enough to take part of the distinguished Turkish breakfast. And ride the ferries, typically. They're not just a method to obtain from here to there; on a ferryboat you can rest feet weary from sightseeing, drink tea, or eat a grilled-cheese sandwich and take in the very best views of throughout the city.

The ghosts of marauding istanbul guide Crusaders and marching janissaries haunt the city's historic alleyways-- however this is no museum: the Bosporus is still a buzzing artery for maritime trade, and the noises of building construction play a consistent counterpoint to the shouts of street hawkers and the call of the muezzin. There are a number of reasons why visitors return repeatedly: the setting is extraordinary, right on the Sea of Marmara and astride the hectic Bosporus Strait. And Istanbul's horizon is a spectacular mélange of domes, turrets, medieval towers, and office buildings towering above low-rise property structures.

Today the cultural and financial center of Turkey, Istanbul has been the capital of three empires-- Byzantine, Roman, and Ottoman. Our Istanbul travel guide combines the best of Istanbul old and new.