"Bustling, Cosmopolitan Istanbul! " a Istanbul Travel Page by Donna_in_India

Istanbul, originally known as Constantinople, is the only city to sit on two continents: Asia and Europe. The Bosphorus, which runs into the Sea of Marmara in the south, splits the Asian and European sides. The population is over 13 million people, with about 3/4s of those people living on the European side. Although Istanbul is not the capital of Turkey, it is definitely the historical, economical, and cultural capital.

Istanbul was founded in the 7th century - in 676 BC - when the Greek settlement of Chalcedon was founded on the Asian side. For over 600 years it was the capital of the Byzantine Empire. In 1301, the Ottoman Empire was founded by Osman I. Both Empires contributed enormously to the city and left behind fantastic treasures.

The structure of the Ottoman society - the privileged ruling society and the tax-paying subjects - is fascinating. The Sultan, who was at the top of society, lived a life of extravagant luxury and ease. At the other end of the spectrum is the Sultan's harem whose women did not live a life of luxury (no matter their surroundings), but a life of enslavement. The Topkapi Palace is a great example of this lifestyle. Although the two-tier structure was modified in the 19th century, it wasn't until the Turkish Republic was formed in 1924, that Ottoman titles were finally abolished.

Central Istanbul, which is where most travelers spend much of their time, is divided into 4 parts: The Bazaar Quarter, Seraglio Point, Beyoglu, and Sultanahmet. The top sights include: Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazzar, Golden Horn, New Mosque, Mahmut Pasa Mosque, Rustem Pasa Mosque, and Sulemaniye Mosque in the Bazaar Quarter, the Archaelogical Museum and Topkapi Palace in Seraglio, Galata Tower, Church of Saints Peter and Paul, and Taksim in Beyoglu, and Haghia Sohpia, Blue Mosque and Basilica Cistern in Sultanahmet. Of course, no visit to Istanbul would be complete without a walk along the Galata Bridge and a boat/ferry trip out on the Bosphorus (be sure to get off at a stop or two). You should also venture further out to the spectacular Church of St. Saviour in Chora and Dolmabahche Palace outside Taksim.

We visited in April which was just a perfect time. In addition to the wonderful weather, it was also time for the tulip festival, which meant the city was full of millions (literally) of beautiful tulips. Public transportation was great - especially the trams (although the buses were good). Enjoy the sightseeing, shopping, delicious street - and restaurant - foods, and fabulous people of Istanbul! I can't wait to go back!!