Visit Istanbul In One Day

The only city worldwide that is in both Asia and Europe, Istanbul also straddles the ancient and contemporary worlds.

The best way to experience Istanbul is to permit unscheduled wandering in between sees to archaeological sites and museums. Rise early enough to partake of the renowned Turkish breakfast. And ride the ferryboats, frequently. They're not just a method to receive from here to there; on a ferry you can rest feet weary from sightseeing, beverage tea, or eat a grilled-cheese sandwich and take in the very best views of throughout the city.

The ghosts of marauding Crusaders and marching janissaries haunt the city's historic alleys-- but this is no museum: the Bosporus is still a buzzing artery for maritime trade, and the noises of structure construction play a constant counterpoint to the shouts of street hawkers and the call of the muezzin. There are numerous reasons visitors return repeatedly: the setting is extraordinary, right on the Sea of Marmara and astride the hectic Bosporus Strait. And Istanbul's skyline is a sensational mélange of domes, turrets, medieval towers, and office complex looming over low-rise property structures.

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