Istanbul holidays

What can you find in Istanbul that you won’t find elsewhere:

Istanbul is a blend between Asia and Europe, East and West. A modern metropolis that has stayed true to its roots, Istanbul is an animated city with traces from all around the world. It was called Byzantium under the Greeks, then Constantinople during the Roman Empire, before eventually becoming Istanbul when the Ottomans made Ankara Turkey’s capital. The city has seen a tumultuous history, and there’s plenty to show for it. While you're exploring the city, the Hagia Sophia basilica with its blue façade and the majestic Topkapi Palace are must-sees. Or, if you’d rather spend time in the Turkish sun, head to the coast where Istanbul is crossed by the Bosphorus Strait that connects the Black Sea to the smaller Sea of Marmara. Take a boat out on the waves to admire the sumptuous palaces that stand on the water’s edge and once you’re back on terra firma, experience the buzzing atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar and the souks as you browse the spices, jewellery and luxurious fabrics.

Who is Istanbul best for?

Those who want their city breaks to combine sea and sun with rich cultural experiences. If you’ve always wanted to see the splendours of Asia, Istanbul offers a tantalising first peek into the lifestyle that lies further east. History lovers can stay in Istanbul for a week without running out of things to do and if you’re looking to broaden your horizons, the diversity of food, architecture and people is bound to introduce you to something new.

For history buffs, maybe only Rome and Jerusalem (discuss) can rival Istanbul for intrigue. The former church, now mosque, of the Aya Sofia, the beautiful Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace are just three of the historical unmissables in a city which for centuries was rivalled only by Rome. Istanbul's bustling and frenetic streets evoke a colourful past, but much of the most interesting evidence lies below those streets, such as in the Basilica cistern, the perfectly preserved Byzantine era water tank - another unmissable.

The best ways to discover Istanbul

For a unique stay in the heart of Istanbul, spend a few nights in an old Franciscan convent, redesigned as a chic and contemporary hotel complete with open terraces that provide panoramic views of the city, the perfect spot for enjoying a nightcap after a long day spent exploring the city. For a break from city life, choose a hotel on the Bosphorus, close to Istanbul. Spend your days relaxing poolside overlooking the strait's deep blue waters and enjoying boat trips along the coast. Of course, if you have the time, you don’t have to spend all your days in Istanbul; take a trip to the scenic landscapes of Cappadociaafter your city adventure for the perfect blend of urban cool and natural wonders.

Special things to do in Istanbul

- Bathe in the Turkish baths. A hammam (a Turkish sauna and spa) is a place that takes the concept of soaking away your troubles to a whole new level. Blanketed by humid air, receive a traditional wash, body scrub and revitalising massage from one of the hammam’s trained professionals. Hamami are scattered all around Istanbul but if you’d rather do it yourself, you can choose the self-service option to wash yourself while still experiencing the soothing atmosphere of the baths.

- Eat breakfast on a roof terrace with outstanding views across the Bosphorus Strait that separates Europe from Asia before hitting the souqs. There is no better place to shop, and no better place to put haggling skills to the test than Istanbul. Drink glasses of sweet mint tea and admire the carpets, leather goods and silverware on offer.

- In the evenings, our Concierge can recommend the hottest of the hotspots in a city with a surprisingly hip and happening nightlife.