Istanbul – Two continents collide at the heart of empire

Straddling Europe and Asia, Istanbul, formerly Byzantium and Constantinople, has been the capital of two empires and is now the stunning capital of the Republic of Türkiye, full of ancient buildings and exuding history. Istanbul's 80-plus museums include establishments focusing on topics such as archaeology (Istanbul Archaeology Museum) and artefacts from the Ottoman era (Pera Museum). A visit to Istanbul's Carpet Museum for instance might help you feel informed when making a purchase at the Grand Bazaar. Islamic and Byzantine architecture are strongly represented by several awe-inspiring mosques, ancient churches and fortifications. Among the prettiest of these is the Rüstem Pasa Mosque, near the Spice Bazaar, with fine examples of hand-painted Iznik tile panels. Younger visitors will enjoy a number of family-oriented attractions, including the Miniatürk Park with 122 famous Turkish landmarks in miniature, and Kidzania, an activity centre where they can earn Kidzania currency with pretend jobs.

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Top Attractions in Istanbul

Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque – A majestic historical symbol

Once the world's largest cathedral, this vast building gives the impression of great strength. The interior has been affected by its history. Islamic and Christian elements, including fabulous mosaics, coexist on the ceilings and walls. The Christian elements were plastered over under the Ottomans, but restored when the mosque became a museum. Now, curtains cover the Christian elements during times of prayer, but are left open otherwise.Light streaming through 40 windows lining the great dome's base, give it the appearance of magically floating above the main structure. Visit this majestic building and discover its beauty and history for yourself.

Topkapi Palace – Enter the sultan's harem

The outer decoration of the Topkapi Palace is largely functional rather than ornate. Arched walkways surrounding the beautiful park-like courtyards provide essential shade. Domes are discrete and walls are castle-like rather than palatial.Inside, residential areas and rooms where state business took place are much more lavish. Finely painted tilework abounds, golden detailing is prominent and golden globes hang from domed ceilings.A highlight is Murat III's sumptuous Privy Chamber with colourful tiles lining the walls, two golden-pillared baldachins, a tiered fountain (for ambience and preventing eavesdroppers) and a gorgeous gold-patterned dome.Make sure to buy tickets covering all areas.

Shop for carpets or Aladdin's Lamp at the Grand Bazaar

One of the world's oldest and largest indoor markets, with more than 4000 shops spread over 200,000 m², the ‘Covered Market' (‘Kapalıçarşı') in Istanbul astonishes with its splendour and sheer size.Walk through the Bazaar's 60-plus streets and shop for carpets, jewellery and other traditional and luxury souvenirs amid the captivating scent of spices and the bustle of this lively market. Haggling is expected; perhaps you'll pick up a bargain.After a morning's haggling, why not relax at one of the cafés or restaurants around the Bazaar with traditional Turkish food or a steaming cup of tea or Turkish coffee.

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