Istanbul

Welcome to Istanbul

Istanbul is an otherworldly intersection of East and West and home to a greater number of world-class attractions than it does minarets, and that’s quite a good number.

History 
Over the course of several centuries, the strategic location of Istanbul has been a magnet for several raiding armies. Before the Ottomans rushed into town and chose to remain, the Greeks, Romans, and Venetians each had turns reigning. A number of tangible remnants of their previous reigns can be found all across the city. It was the final stop on the famed Silk Road, which connected Asia and Europe, and many merchants who came here enjoyed it so much that they wanted to stay. The fact that the city is located on both continents was not the only thing that made it appealing. As a result of their actions, the city was endowed with a cultural variety that continues to exist to this day.

Architecture and the Arts
In the past, the conquering armies of ancient times had a tendency to loot the Istanbul (Constantinapolis) city rather than bestow it with artistic riches. However, this changed when the Byzantines arrived and decorated their palaces and churches with mosaics and frescoes. Almost all of these have somehow survived. Their successors, the Ottomans, were eager to begin an ambitious building program, and the brilliantly embellished imperial mosques that arose from this program are architectural achievements that, when combined, make one of the most impressive skylines in the world. In recent years, local banks and business families have recommitted themselves to the great ideals of the Ottomans and have bestowed onto the community an astounding assortment of galleries, museums, and festivals that are open to everyone.

Heritage in the Cuisine
It is heard that you are asking, “But what about the food in Istanbul?” It gives us great pleasure to inform you that the food of the city is not only wonderful but also has a wide range of exquisite dishes. Locals take their food and drink very seriously, as evidenced by the fact that the restaurants in this area are among the best in the nation. You have the option of consuming aromatic Asian dishes or Italian classics, but the majority of tourists prefer to indulge in the succulent kebaps, flavorful mezes, and freshly caught fish that are the city’s signature dishes. To complement these dishes, they are best enjoyed with the national drink, rakı (aniseed brandy), or a glass or two of locally produced wine.

Community Life
There are certain historical towns that are comprised solely on their monuments, but Istanbul is a far more significant element in the equation. The people who live there have a sense of kindness and a joy of life that is contagious, and they are the most important element among its many charms. This community is full of people who work hard and party hard, who value family and friendships, and who have no trouble combining modernity and tradition in their day-to-day lives. It is a community that is alive, inclusive, and increasing. The highlight of your vacation will be the opportunity to join them in their favorite places of interest, such as çay bahçesis (tea gardens), kahvehans (coffeehouses), meyhanes (Turkish pubs), and kebapçıs (kebap restaurants).