Istanbul
Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey and the heart of the country's economy, culture, and history. With a population of 13.9 million, the city forms one of the largest and most diverse urban areas in Europe, in addition to being the second-largest city in the world, in terms of population within city limits. Istanbul is a transcontinental city straddling the Bosphorus – one of the world's busiest waterways – in the northwestern region of Turkey between the Sea of Marmara and the Black Sea. Its commercial and historical centers lie in Europe, while a third of its population lives in Asia.
Founded as Byzantium on the Cape of Sarayburnu around 660 B.C., the city now known as Istanbul, developed to become one of the most significant cities in history. For nearly sixteen centuries, following its reestablishment as Constantinople in 330 AD, it has served as the capital of four empires – the Roman Empire (330–395), the Byzantine Empire (395–1204 and again in 1261–1453), the Latin Empire (1204–1261), and the Ottoman Empire (1453–1922). It was instrumental in the advancement of Christianity during Roman and Byzantine times. However, after the Ottomans conquered the city in 1453, they later transformed the city into an Islamic stronghold and was the seat of the last caliphate. Although the Republic of Turkey established its capital in Ankara, palaces and imperial mosques still line Istanbul's hills, as visible reminders of the central role Istanbul held in the past.
Two years after it was named a European Capital of Culture, approximately 11.6 million foreigners visited Istanbul in 2012, making the city the world's fifth-most-popular tourist destination. The city's biggest attraction remains to be its historical center, but its hub for cultural and entertainment can be found across the city's harbor known as the Golden Horn in the Beyoğlu district. Considered a global city, Istanbul has one of the fastest-growing metropolitan economies in the world. It hosts the headquarters of many Turkish companies and media outlets, while accounting for more than a quarter of the country's gross domestic product. Hoping to capitalize on its revitalization and rapid expansion, Istanbul is currently bidding for the 2020 Summer Olympics.
(source: wikipedia)
Great things to do in Istanbul: (source http://www.timeout.com/istanbul/)
1. Touch the heart of the Ottoman Empire
What once was a command center for a massive military empire, the lavishly decorated Topkapı Palace was the seat of Ottoman power for over three centuries. At least half a day is needed to explore the castle, but given the high entrance fees, you might want to make a full day of it to get your money’s worth. If you are pushed for time, the must-see features are the Harem, Imperial Treasury, and the views from the innermost courtyard.
2. Haggle for carpets at the Grand Bazaar
Serious shoppers should go armed with a notepad, a calculator and plenty of time when visiting the Grand Bazaar – three hours is about the minimum needed for a purchasing expedition. Choose your vendor from over 5,500 and prepare for an onslaught of courting and cajolements. Yörük is a highly recommended little carpet store, while Pako (at No.87) stocks the city’s best handbags and purses. For coats and jackets, Kürkçüler Çarşisi is the area of choice. While beating down the price remember that the vendors pay their rent in gold – a hefty seven kilos a year for shops on the main avenue.
3. Ferry around the Bosphorus
A truly relaxing way of getting across one of the world’s busiest waterways is to take one of the commuter ferry services up the Bosphorus from Eminönü, which leaves every half hour. Views of Beşiktaş, Ortaköy and Bebek can be seen along the way, while taking in the lush parks, palaces and yalıs (waterside mansions).
4. Immerse Yourself in Past Glories
The breathtaking Haghia Sophia was originally a Byzantine church, then Ottoman mosque, and now a Turkish museum. Today, the mosaic walls and vaulted chambers merely hint at its former glory. The building seems a bit run down when compared with the neighbouring mosques, but its historical significance shines through.
5. Discover Bird's-Eye-Views
Originally named the Tower of Christ, the Galata Tower was built in 1348 at the apex of fortified walls. After the Ottoman conquest, it was used to house prisoners of war and later became an observatory. In the 1960s, the tower was restored and a horrible cheesy restaurant and nightclub were added. Ignore both and ascend to the 360-degree viewing gallery with commanding views of the entire sprawling metropolis.
6. Taste the Ottoman Cuisine
Authentic Turkish food is a far cry from the greasy kebabs that are peddled abroad. Prepare your palate for a hearty mix of culinary influences. Asitaneis a one-of-a-kind restaurant serving truly authentic Ottoman food. Expect lots of sweet and sour fruit and meat combos such as Kavun dolmasi (a melon stuffed with minced meat, rice, almonds and pistachios). Over at Rumeli, traditional dishes have been given a distinctly Mediterranean twist. You should also make time to try these Ottoman favorites: Hacı Abdullah, Sarniç, and Zarifi.
7. Be Sultan for an Hour or Two
The Dolmabahçe Palace's white marble facade is striking when viewed from the water, but it is trumped by the interior design by French decorator Sechan, who also worked on the Paris Opera. Highlights include the 36-meter-high throne room with its four-ton crystal chandelier (a gift from Queen Victoria), the alabaster baths and a 'crystal staircase'. This historical building gives opulence a whole new meaning.
8. Escape to the Princes’ Islands
Set in the Marmara Sea off Istanbul's Asian Shore, the Princes' Islands are where Istanbul’s mainly non-Muslim elite built their summerhouses and pleasure palaces. Today, they are one of the last places to offer a glimpse of the old ethnic mix of Istanbul in all its splendour. Greeks, Armenians, and Jews still rub shoulders with Turks in the local squares and churches are more numerous than mosques.