Istanbul, Turkey – Vacation Packages

Once known as the famous Constantinople, the capital of the Ottoman Empire, Istanbul is now a sprawling mega-city embracing two continents, one arm reaching out to Asia, the other to Europe. In the city’s heart, the Bosphorus Strait, course the waters of the Black Sea, the Sea of Marmara and the Golden Horn. The historical part of the city, Sultanahmet, contains the historical treasures of the Blue Mosque and Aya Sofya. As you tour the walled area, famous for holding off invaders for centuries, explore and get lost down the twisting alleyways, imagining years past.

The city is always on the move, with vibrant marketplaces and busy streets. If you want to relax, take in a traditional hamman, or Turkish bath, complete with a massage. 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.

Why go to Istanbul, Turkey?

• It’s the gateway of Europe, Asia and the Middle East – explore it!
• Byzantium to Constantinople, Roman to Ottoman empires, find history and culture, all ages and places
• See the sights of the Old City: mosques, churches markets, tea houses, cafes…
• Visit Topkapi Sarayi, for 400 years the residence of sultans
• Soak and steam in the hamams, the Turkish Baths

For more on Istanbul, check out the Istanbul Travel Guide on BootsnAll.