Holidays in Turkey are associated with Russian tourists with a trip to Antalya, Kemer, Belek, Marmaris and other resorts. But the true gem of the country is the ancient city of Istanbul, formerly Constantinople. It unites Asia and Europe, as it lies on two continents at once. And travelers with a wide variety of needs will be able to enjoy their stay in the glittering capital.
Instructions
Step 1
Be sure to explore the city, visit as many excursions as possible. There are many noteworthy sights and historical monuments, and they belong to different styles, eras, religions. After all, Istanbul was the capital of the three greatest empires - first Roman, then Byzantine, and after the conquest - Ottoman. The most famous shrines are the Blue Mosque, erected by order of Sultan Akhmet, St. Sophia Cathedral, created by the will of Constantine the Great, the huge Suleiman mosque, in which the acoustics are so perfect that the preacher can speak without straining, and he will be heard even in the far corners of the temple.
Step 2
To diversify your leisure time after visiting temples and palaces, go to cafes or restaurants, of which there are many in Istanbul, visit discos and nightclubs, go horseback riding, golf or go karting. Be sure to head to the beautiful Princess Islands in the Sea of Marmara. Here you can soak up the magnificent beaches, fish, stroll through the pine forest, admire the countless flower beds, taste freshly caught fish dishes in one of the small cozy restaurants.
Step 3
Take a ride on the Bosphorus Strait by scheduled boat or ferry. They lead to the confluence of the Black and Marmara Seas across the whole of Istanbul, so you can admire the stunning views of the city at the same time. This tour is very popular with tourists, so it is better to buy tickets for a weekday, before 6 pm. There will be too many organized groups on weekends. And if you are a bit extreme at heart, take a few lessons in yacht management at the Academy of Shipping. Then rent it and travel around the Bosphorus on your own, with the support of a professional team.
Step 4
Being in Istanbul and not visiting the famous Turkish baths is unforgivable. There are more than a hundred of them here, choose the one you like the most. The most popular among tourists is the Chamberlitash Hamami bath. Inside there is very beautiful decoration in oriental style, and the prices are quite reasonable. Warm up in a hammam, cool your head with ice water, lie on a warm marble stone. A massage session lasts an hour and a half, it will relieve fatigue and fill the body with strength, and when you rub with aromatic oils, the skin will become silky.
Step 5
Istanbul is rightfully considered the capital of good shopping. Go to the covered market "Grand Bazaar" where you can buy souvenirs, jewelry, crafts, furs, antiques and much more. In addition to shopping at bargain prices, you will enjoy contemplating the local flavor. Visit the Laleli area, where there are many shops that offer inexpensive Turkish goods - shoes, clothes, leather. If you want to buy products from world brands, go to one of the many large shopping malls. Prices for goods there are lower than in other countries - many manufacturers have opened their production facilities in Turkey. For oriental sweets, coffee and spices, head to the Egyptian Bazaar.
