Introduction

Istanbul deserves to be among the first choices for anyone considering a short city break. Few European cities have anywhere near as much to offer. With three and a half thousand years of history there's no shortage of attractions and, as the only city on earth that straddles two continents, a visit to Istanbul is truly a unique experience.



Formerly known as Byzantium and later Constantinople, over a period of 1600 years the city was capital to the East Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empires - all of which left their indelible mark. As you might guess this means there's plenty to see, but luckily for the tourist most of the city's sights are close to the huge Sultanahmet Square the heart of Istanbul.



For those who want to range further, you can't get much further away (ideologically and culturally) than the Asian part of the city, just across the mile wide Bosphorus. Take the trip across and you can immediately feel the contrast.



Meanwhile, back in Europe, explore the more remote quarters of the city off the tourist track and it's impossible to go far without stumbling across an ancient church or mosque, Roman columns or sections of walls from long lost ancient palaces. Days spent wandering the narrow passages of the Grand Bazaar and wondering at breathtaking Byzantine cathedrals and sumptuous Ottoman palaces can be rounded off in any one of hundreds of excellent restaurants, cafés, and bars in the city's old European quarter of Beyoglu.



History notwithstanding, Istanbul is a fast changing, modern metropolis. The past ten years has seen a revolution as Turkey's predominantly young population has made its presence felt, spawning a vibrant and ever expanding nightlife. Istanbul's unique position also adds a piquancy and variety to the vibrant culture with entertainment showing the influence of two continents.