Istanbul embraces two continents, one arm reaching out to Asia, the other to Europe. Through the city's heart, the Bosphorus strait, course the waters of the Black Sea, the Sea of Marmara and the Golden Horn. At times as these, you feel that Istanbul is truly one of the most glorious cities in the world.
The former capital of three successive empires - Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman - today Istanbul honors and preserves the legacy of its past while looking forward to its modern future.
Indeed it is Istanbul's variety that fascinates its visitors. The museums, churches, palaces, great Mosques Bazaars and sights of natural beauty seem inexhaustible.
Must see: Start the tour of the city with visits to Topkapi Palace residence of the Ottoman Sultans between the 15th and 19th centuries, now a world famous museum where imperial pieces are in display, the 16th century Imperial Mosque of Suleiman the Magnificent , the Byzantine Hippodrome, now an open air exhibition park with a number of monuments where chariot races were once held. Visit the 17th century Blue Mosque with its six minarets as well as its interior blue tiles. Visit Hagia Sophia Church the 6th century Byzantine Basilica, the largest church of its era and the architectural glory of the Byzantines, the Grand Bazaar, world's largest covered market with more then 4,000 shops and a multitude of alleys.
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