Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey and situated on either side of the ribbon of the blue ribbon of the Bosphorus Strait, makes it an extremely popular tourist destination

2. WHAT’S THIS ALL ABOUT?
Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey and situated on either side of the ribbon of
the blue ribbon of the Bosphorus Strait, makes it an extremely popular tourist
destination.
Istanbul is a beautiful city that exhibits several elegant mosques and museums,
making it a sight-seeing paradise with the district of Sultanahmet home to many
attractions such as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque. The Bazaar District is home to
thousands of shops surrounded by centuries-old markets, hamams and tea
gardens.
Istanbul is a fabulous destination for food lovers, with its cuisine shaped by
influences ranging from the Ottoman court to other ethnic groups.
Beyoğlu is the best district for food with high-class restaurants, bars and
galleries, there is exceptional nightlife to enjoy: from going to stylish roof-top bar
and eating at a waterfront fish restaurant to trying a nargile (water pipe).

3. ATTRACTIONS
We’ve selected our top 5 things to see and do in Istanbul:
Sultan Ahmed Mosque: The most photogenic building in Istanbul, the Sultan Ahmed or Blue Mosque, is truly a sight to
behold. The mosque’s courtyard is the same size of the interior so there is plenty to take in. Admissions are controlled
in order to preserve the sacred aura.
Ay Sofya: In the past it was a church and mosque but now the Ay Sofya stands as a museum displaying works of art
from history including the Byzantium. The entrance to the building is famed for its mosaic dome – make sure you take
the time to look!
Topkapı Palace: Enter the Topkapı Palace, where there are more stories from sultans, concubines and courtiers to be
told as you explore the court of the Ottoman Empire.
Grand Bazaar: Istanbul is a great place for shopping, with the colourful Grand Bazaar one of the largest and oldest
covered markets in the world. Take time to peer through hidden doorways and watch artists work in the narrow alleys,
to fully discover the traditional bazaar.
Bosphorus Cruise: Soak up the views of Istanbul from the comfort of the Bosphorus Strait where a number of different
types of cruise tours are available.

4. WEATHER
Due to the location of Istanbul between Asia and Europe it has a very variable
climate that experiences all four seasons. The summer months are warm and
humid with limited rain particularly between July and August, while in the winter it
can be wet and even experience some snow.
Temperatures throughout the year range from 10°C to 30°C, with an average
annual temperature of 14°C.
The areas near the Bosphorous Strait have a Mediterranean climate but as you
move north towards the Black Sea it gets distinctly colder and wetter.
If you’re visiting in the winter it is the season with the highest rainfall, when
Istanbul receives 35% of its annual precipitation.

5. CLOTHING
You’ll find you’ll be more comfortable in loose, lightweight clothing during
both the day and night to stay cool in the humidity. It can get colder in
the winter months so you may want to pack warmer clothing such as
heavier jackets and trousers.
It is very important to remember that Istanbul is a predominantly Muslim
city. In tourist areas there are limited restrictions on clothing but when
you walk around the streets or visit sacred mosques, it is advisable to
cover your legs and shoulders out of respect for the city’s culture.

6. IDEAL FOR…?
Culture seekers and travellers looking to learn about diverse
cultures will enjoy how east meets west in Istanbul. Families with
older children would perhaps appreciate the city break and
groups of friends are sure to enjoy the nightlife atmosphere.

7. WHAT NOW?
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Istanbul