How to Make Your Holidays to Istanbul Worth Cherishing

by Amanda Sutcliffe Travel Deals

Known as Byzantium and Constantinople in ancient times, Istanbul is Turkey's economic and cultural centre. As it is a transcontinental city, it connects Europe with Asia. Owing to this particular feature, it offers its visitors the best of both cultures. You can also have some unforgettable cultural experiences while getting around in this city during your holidays. It was named as the 'European Capital of Culture' in the year 2010. Since then, Istanbul has witnessed a considerable increase in the number of tourists coming to the city from different corners of the globe. The city gives you the opportunity to witness some fabulous attractions, besides its popular historic structures.

There is an increase in humidity in this city during the period from June to August along with a significant rise in daytime temperatures. However, don't expect the tourist crowds to reduce owing to such climatic changes. As the tourists still arrive in large numbers, hotel stays would remain expensive. If you're looking forward to enjoying cheap holidays to Istanbul, visit during the winter season from December to February. Along with the extreme cold, you may also get unexpected rains in winters; but, the hotels would be willing to reduce their room rates to a great extent. For a pleasant climate, visit either between September and November or March and May.

Your cheap holidays to Istanbul would allow you to explore some of the city's majestic attractions. Among them is the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, which is popularly known as the 'Blue Mosque'. It was built during the reign of Sultan Ahmed I in the 17th century. Besides its fantastic architecture, this mosque is noted for its unique blue shade. You'll find another historic attraction called Aya Sofya close to this mosque. It is truly an architectural masterpiece built as a church during the ancient times when Emperor Justinian ruled this part of the world.

Another attraction worth exploring during your holidays to Istanbul is the Topkapi Palace. It was built on the orders of Sultan Mehmed II, also known as 'Mehmed the Conqueror', in the 15th century. You'll be taken by surprise when you visit the Basilica Cistern. During the rule of Byzantine emperors, it was used for supplying water to the royal family. This cistern comprises 336 columns that have been arranged in 12 rows. You'll enjoy some truly memorable moments during your visit to this ancient structure when you witness the fabulous ambience of its columns and the trickling water.

During your holiday spent in this Turkish city, you can also explore the Hippodrome. It is yet another brilliant structure constructed during the ancient times. The historical records state that it took more than a hundred years to complete this structure, which was of great importance during the times of the Byzantine rule. Upon visiting the Suleymaniye Mosque, you'll appreciate its fascinating architecture. After all, it was designed by Sinan, a famous Ottoman architect. This particular mosque was built for the Ottoman Sultan, Suleyman I, who is also known as 'Suleyman the Magnificent'.

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