The portal of East and West, Istanbul draws visitors from near and far with its unsurpassed historical venues and vestiges, vibrant and scintillating nightlight, fashion-setting shopping opportunities, top-notch accommodations and dining choices based on natural ingredients that thrill both the gourmand and those searching for healthful and delicious fare. Visitors who flock to the city from around the face of the globe are astounded and delighted by the sights and sounds of this remarkable and bustling urban center. Each corner one turns seems to present another historical monument or landmark, all attesting to the fact that Istanbul has served throughout history as the capital city of diverse cultures and civilizations and one that today is a leader in tourism, finance and fashion..

Istanbul is a city of two sides with many unique and fascinating features. It is the only city in the world reaching across two continents with its old city in Europe and modern Istanbul situated in Asia, separated by the Bosphorus Strait. It is also unique in having had capital status during two successive empires, Christian Byzantine and Islamic Ottoman and the legacy from both is visible in the modern city today. After the War of Independence, the capital was moved to Ankara, but Istanbul still remains the commercial, historical and cultural heart of Turkey today. The charm and character of the city lies in its endless variety and jumble of contradictions. Its fascinating history has bequeathed a vivid inheritance of Byzantine ruins, splendid palaces, ancient mosques and Churches, hamams and exotic bazaars. Modern Istanbul exudes trendy bars and night clubs, superb restaurants, luxury boutiques and elegant suburbs.

Why? Enjoy the best of both European and Asian cultures in exciting Istanbul. It’s a holiday full of Turkish delights and fascinating contrasts. Spend the morning haggling for an exquisite rug in a traditional bazaar; the afternoon in a contemporary boutique choosing the latest designer outfit, stop to marvel at gilded mosques en route and then party the night away in a great club.

When? The city enjoys hot, humid summers and summer is the season most choose to travel to Istanbul. It is probably best to plan your Istanbul holiday for either early or late summer to avoid the searing heat.

Istanbul Climate and weather In summer the weather in Istanbul is hot and humid, averaging 82F (28C) between June and September. Summers are relatively dry, but it rains for much of the winter, when the temperature drops considerably. It rarely drops as low as freezing point in Istanbul, and doesn’t often snow, but it can be a cold and windy city at certain times of the year.

Who for? A holiday in Istanbul is ideal for anyone who wishes to experience the exotic flavour of the East, whilst still being able to enjoy the comfort and familiarity of a European country. Shopaholics will revel in the bazaars and glitzy stores and history buffs can indulge in an orgy of sight-seeing and museums that reveal the romantic and varied heritage of this ancient city.