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The Unique and Mysterious Attractions of Istanbul

Author: Lisa Jeeves
by Lisa Jeeves
Posted: Aug 21, 2015

Arranged your flight and airport transfer service and ready for your trip to Istanbul? This is a city of exoticism and mystique, a place where East meets West and where ancient culture collides with the modern world. As one of the most exciting destinations in the world for a holiday, there is certainly plenty to see and do – with so many unique attractions to visit during your time here.

Once you've settled in from your airport transfer service, here are some of the very best attractions this wonderful city has to offer.

The Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque is one of the most high-profile attractions in the city, and it should definitely be at the top of anyone's must-see list. Its official name is the Sultan Ahmed Mosque and, dating back to the 17th century, it remains one of the most important mosques in Istanbul. It boasts six stunning minarets and the interior is nothing short of spectacular.

Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia is another of the very famous attractions of Istanbul. It started off as a basilica in the 4th century, then was later converted into a mosque; these days it houses a museum. It is a stunning building with a huge dome, and it is widely regarded as one of the best examples of Byzantine architecture in the world.

Topkap? Palace

This stunning palace used to serve as home to various sultans over the years, and you may pass by it on your airport transfer service to get a glimpse of the exterior. During a visit you will be able to explore the incredible jewel collection and you should also spend some time looking around the beautiful courtyards.

The Grand Bazaar

There are few places where you can enjoy such a unique shopping experience as in the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul. You will find an endless selection of exquisite handmade goods that make the perfect souvenirs. An ancient marketplace, it continues to be the centre of the shopping experience in the city to this day. It contains many covered streets where you will find an array of carpets, jewellery and many other items - just make sure you're prepared to haggle! You may well find that your return journey on the airport transfer service is a lot more overloaded with luggage than when you arrived!

Other Top Attractions in Istanbul

These are just a few of the main attractions and there are many more to discover in this fascinating city. Some of these include Dolmabahçe Palace, Galata Tower, Basilica Cistern, Taksim Square and Kariye Musuem.

Once you've settled in from your airport transfer service and you're ready to start exploring, consider the above attractions as a basis for an excellent itinerary.

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for an airport transfer service, Shuttle Direct provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

About the Author

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.

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Author: Lisa Jeeves

Lisa Jeeves

Member since: Oct 18, 2013
Published articles: 4550

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