One of the greatest cities in the world, Istanbul, is located not far from the Black Sea resorts in Bulgaria. From Varna to it - 480 km, from Burgas - 350 km. Excursions from Bulgaria to Istanbul are very popular: comfortable buses leave in the evening from almost every beach on the coast and arrive in Istanbul early in the morning, and in the evening of the same day or the next they take tourists back. The approximate cost of the tour, depending on the package of services and duration, is 75 - 150 dollars. For children, there is usually a 50% discount.
Istanbul is the largest city in Europe with over 16 million inhabitants. Located on two continents - Europe and Asia, it stretches 150 km in length and 50 km in width on both banks of the Bosphorus. Throughout its history, the city was the capital of three empires: Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman, and for 27 centuries it has accumulated a myriad of treasures from bygone eras. The city has 70 museums, 64 mosques, 49 churches, 17 palaces, and many other interesting objects. The most famous sights are usually included in the excursion program.
Sultanahmet district
The historical center of Istanbul, Sultanahmet district, is located in the European part of the city on a promontory between the Golden Horn, the Bosphorus and the Sea of Marmara. It was at this place in the 7th century BC. the colony of Byzantium was formed, which eventually turned into the great Constantinople. From here the city began, and from here, acquaintance with it begins.
The main square of Istanbul, Sultanahmet, occupies part of the territory of the ancient Hippodrome, where chariot races were held. Now on the site of the hippodrome remained
- Egyptian obelisk
- Snake column
- Obelisk of Constantine
In the other part of Sultanahmet Square, two of the greatest creations of the architects of the past stand opposite each other: the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. And although their age difference is about 10 centuries, they look like two beautiful sisters and it is difficult to choose which is more beautiful.
Currently, the Hagia Sophia is the Hagia Sophia Museum and is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. And the Blue Mosque continues to perform its religious functions, but is also open to tourists.
Topkapi Palace
There is a beautiful park next to Hagia Sophia, over which the Topkapi Palace rises. It is a whole palace complex, stretching 5 km above the Sea of Marmara. Built in 1479, it was the residence of the Turkish sultans until the middle of the 19th century. After the proclamation of Turkey as a republic, the palace became a museum, one of the richest museums in the world.
Only the most valuable exhibits are displayed in its windows, and there are more than 60 thousand of them in total, but there is simply not enough space for the entire collection. In addition to countless treasures, relics are also stored here.
- The relics of John the Baptist
- Staff of Moses
- Sword of david
- Brazier of Abraham
Istanbul panorama
A magnificent view of the city opens from the observation deck of the Galata Tower, erected in the 14th century by the Genoese on top of a hill. It has served as a watchtower for centuries. Now on the top floor there is a restaurant and a cafe.
But the best way to admire Istanbul is from the water. During an excursion on a boat along the Golden Horn Bay and along the Bosphorus, you can see the mosques on the tops of all seven hills of the city, palaces along the embankment and from the European and Asian sides of the strait, towers, fortresses, bridges.
On a boat trip you can see
- Haydarpasha station building
- Fortresses of Rumelihisary and Anadoluhisary
- Maiden Tower
- Beilirbeyli Palace
- Ciragan Palace
Bazaars
Istanbul's Grand Bazaar is full of treasures like Aladdin's caves. Everything you could wish for can be found here. And the sellers, like fabulous gins, all carry new curiosities.
The second largest bazaar, the Egyptian or Spice Market, intoxicates with the aromas of oriental spices, medicinal herbs, tempts with sweets, dried fruits and other dishes, which can only be tasted here and now.
Istanbul never seems to sleep. All restaurants, bars, night clubs, discos are open at night. Its nightlife is full of fire, fun, music and light.
