Constantinople, the city of our heart. It is a crossroads of civilizations, a meeting place of East and West. It is one of the biggest cities in the world. The city of sensations, the flavors of East, the multiple memories and endless legends.
From the moment you step into the city an explosion of feeling fill your heart and you instantly fall in love with every corner and every smell and every taste. As a traveler of course you have to visit the obvious monuments, but do not afraid to get lost in the alleys since there is hidden the charm of the city.
Some of the sites you must not forget to visit are:
- Ayia Sofia. Its rich history, religious importance and extraordinary beauty. will leave you speechless.
- Topkapi palace. Topkapı is the subject of more colorful stories than most of the world’s museums put together.
- Kariye Museum (Chora Church). İstanbul has more than its fair share of Byzantine monuments, but few are as drop-dead gorgeous as this mosaic- and fresco-laden church.
- Basilica Cistern. Its symmetry and sheer grandeur of conception are quite breathtaking, and its cavernous depths make a great retreat on summer days.
- Süleymaniye Mosque. The Süleymaniye crowns one of İstanbul’s seven hills and dominates the Golden Horn, providing a landmark for the entire city.
- Blue Mosque. The mosque is such a popular attraction that admission is controlled in order to preserve its sacred atmosphere.
- Grand Bazaar (Kapalicarci). The colorful and chaotic Grand Bazaar is the heart of İstanbul’s Old City and has been so for centuries. Allow at least three hours for your visit; some travelers spend three days! (Shop owners are very open for price deals.)
After visiting the obvious areas get lost in the neighbors and the alleys. Colorful buildings, traditional little shops with spices and herbs and traditional restaurants with local cuisine that you definitely have to try, will be few of the things that you have to discover. Do not forget to buy the world- famous baklava, eat “donner” or “yiaourtlou” and try fish or mussels in a stick from one of the peddlers at the bridges of Bosporus.
In addition, book a seat in one of the small ferries and sail in the waters of the Bosporus and you will not regret it. Beautiful palaces, magnificent mansions and the landscape of the city will keep you company among with the magnificent history of the city.
The best period to visit: April to July or September to October i believe is the ideal period to visit the city. Not too hot and not to cold in order to enjoy your walks around the city.
Climate: Constantinople has a borderline Mediterranean climate, humid subtropical climate and oceanic climate , due to its location in a transitional climatic zone.
Meraki 