How to Make Your Istanbul Holidays Worth Cherishing

by Amanda Sutcliffe Travel Deals

A major city of Turkey, Istanbul has been of immense economic and cultural importance right from the ancient times. During those days, it was known by the name Byzantium and was later called Constantinople until the Ottomans established their rule over the region and gave this city its present name. You can enjoy the best of Asian and European cultures in this part of the world as it is a transcontinental city with its commercial and historical centre on the European side and most of its population living on the Asian side. During your holiday spent in this fascinating Turkish city, you'll get the chance to witness some historical masterpieces.

The best time to enjoy your Istanbul holidays would be between September and November or between March and May, when the weather is characterised by pleasant daytime temperatures and the hotels are willing to offer some discounts on their room rates. Winter arrives in this city during the month of December and continues until February. The climate during this season is quite chilly with unpredictable rains that may spoil your plans of enjoying your favourite outdoor activities. If you still wish to visit the city during winters, you'll definitely save big on your hotel stays. June to August is extremely hot in Istanbul, but you'll still find heavy crowds of tourists at various places.

Your cheap holidays to Istanbul would be worth cherishing with a visit to the Suleymaniye Mosque. It was constructed for the longest reigning Sultan of the Ottoman Empire, Suleiman I, who is widely known as Suleiman the Magnificent. The mosque is one of the most popular landmarks of the city. It was constructed under the guidance of a renowned architect of the Ottoman era called Sinan and was completed during the 16th century. For buying some excellent souvenirs while holidaying in the city, you can head to the Grand Bazaar.

Sultan Ahmed Mosque is yet another mesmerising attraction you must never miss visiting during your cheap holidays to Istanbul. It is also called The Blue Mosque owing to the blue shades on its domes and walls. This charming mosque was constructed during the 17th century when this region was under Sultan Ahmed I's rule. It has been brilliantly built and is considered one of the finest examples of the Ottoman architecture. Located close to this mosque is yet another fantastic attraction, Aya Sofya. Also known as Hagia Sophia, it was inaugurated in 360 AD under the rule of Constantius II.

While enjoying your holidays in this Turkish city, you'll also get the chance to visit the Basilica Cistern. It is one of those attractions of Istanbul that leaves its visitors awestruck even today. The construction of this cistern involved 336 columns arranged in 12 rows. It was used as a source of water supply during the Byzantine Empire's reign. When exploring this place, you'll be amazed to witness a wonderful ambience with beautifully-lit columns. Another attraction that was of great significance during the Byzantine era is Hippodrome, which draws plenty of tourists every year.

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