2006-12-19 01:52:50 · 23 answers · asked by Anonymous in Travel ➔ Europe (Continental) ➔ Turkey
I would highly recommend it. Istanbul is very lively, dynamic and amazing...
There are so many things to see there. Marvelous Hagia Sophia, The Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace in Sultan Ahmet, gorgeous Dolmabahce Palace, Bosphorus and The Golden Horn (a little gulf that snicks into European part), The Grand Bazaar... Those are only the most famous sites of Istanbul, but there is much more to see.
The atmosphere is great as well. The city is busy and dynamic and people in general are open and friendly. You will have a great time in Istanbul!
2006-12-19 09:59:01 · answer #1 · answered by Venus 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
YES. I've been to a lot of countries, but I have never been anywhere quite like Istanbul. it's a fantastic place that's half on the Europena continent and half on Asia. I don't know if I would spend more than a few days there though.
I would reccommend going as part of a tour instead of doing it on your own as major sites aren't always close together and easy to get to. If you're doing this trip independently, then think about joining a day tour of the city. it's much easier if you have someone who knows where they are going and how to get there. it's also a major port for cruise ships so there are lots of foreigners there.
It is a major city- it's very smoggy and you can see the pollution in the air, and it is very busy. Some of it can be overwhelming, especailly in terms of people in the bazaars. I must say that everyone was friendly and helpful, and even travelling with a group of women weren't harassed by shopkeepers. Go with an open mind is the best advice. In terms of noise, pollution, and cleanliness, I see it on par, if not above Hong Kong.
I went to Istanbul last year and it was my second trip to Turkey (not Turkish, just like to travel) and would go again.
2006-12-19 14:44:04 · answer #2 · answered by miss_west1 3 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Istanbul, former Constantinople, former Byzantion was an ancient greek city, then the capital of the Byzantine Empire, the richest in art production for 1000 years. Then, it was the capital of the Ottoman Empire, extremely rich and artistic as well, for another 450 years. You must also know that Istanbul comes form Eis tin Polin, meaning in Greek to the City, because it was referred to as the City, being the most important city of its time for many centuries. So you realize that if you follow the traces of history, there are so many things to see and do. Also the food is amazing! Visit the restaurant Pandeli overlooking the spices market (open only for lunch I think).
2006-12-21 04:23:24 · answer #3 · answered by cpinatsi 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes,it is great...This city name is Istanbul,not Constantinople. Istanbul is a city that in every square meter,it has history. Architecture styles are really a mixture of religions. You can see a lot of historical places here that people built,but there is another beauty that God created. Boshphorus and Halic...The best thing on earth is to drink a hot Turkish Tea while sitting in front of the boshphorus and a slow wind touchs your face...
2006-12-26 14:59:16 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Istanbul is a beautiful city with numerous tourist attractions such as the Blue Mosque and pazar. I would definitely recommend a visit.
However, I believe another earthquake is being expected in the next couple of years... I don't believe it will occur though..
2006-12-24 17:02:40 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I've been to Istanbul a year ago, in January 2006. Actually i came there on the 1st of January :) It's the best place ive ever seen in my life.
2006-12-19 14:58:55 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Depends what you want out of a vacation - when will people learn to provide just a little detail.. Anyway if you want to go ski ing or Base jumping then no, if you are the type that stays in the Marriott all holiday, then again, no. But if you are adventurous and want to see culture, then yes. Visit Orkatoy down by the Bosphrus river for some market culture.
2006-12-19 09:57:18 · answer #7 · answered by sharper 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
You have to go to Istanbul, it's a great city! Very nice things to see, very nice people! Especially, you must see Beylerbey Palace(the summer palace of the sultans)
2006-12-20 15:37:19 · answer #8 · answered by sandi 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, I would recommend it. One word of caution though, do not stay in Taksim...the business area of the city. Islamic law is more closely observed here. To see and experience the best of the city you should stay in Sultahmet. It is where the beautiful parks and mosques are and you get great views across the Bosphorous. It is touristy in high summer but still well worth visiting.
Have a good time
2006-12-19 10:00:28 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
I live here:) istanbul is wonderful city:)
of course I recommend you to visit my city:)
2006-12-20 05:05:23 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋