Discovering
Istanbul on a Turkish Walking Holiday by Tony Maniscalco
Istanbul is a culturally and
geographically interesting city. On a Turkey walking holiday in this fascinating
metropolis, you could see some amazing architecture and even do some shopping
at buzzing local markets, getting a feel for the dynamic and diverse culture.
Istanbul is Turkey's largest
city, and former capital. It is located on the Bosphorus Strait, and hosts
the natural harbour, the Golden Horn. This fascinating city is the only
metropolis in the world to be situated on two continents, straddling both
Europe and Asia. Culturally, this city is rich and diverse, and it has
been chosen as the European Capital of Culture 2010. This intricate city
is best explored on foot, and a Turkey walking holiday will allow you to
do just that.
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Warm Summer Walking in
the City
Istanbul's climate is a combination
of the oceanic climate of the Black Sea, the humid continental climate
of the Balkan Peninsula and the Mediterranean climate of the south west.
In summer, your walking holiday in Turkey will involve many hot days in
Istanbul, with the average temperature being about 28? and the humidity
level being high.
A walk along the Golden Horn
River will be lovely on a warm day, as you marvel over the region's history,
with the old city of Istanbul's European area and Beyoglu sitting on each
side of the river. |
Interesting Architecture
in Istanbul
Istanbul's amalgamation of
cultures is clearly visible in its diverse architectural designs. With
structures ranging from mosques, synagogues and churches, to palaces, castles
and towers, you have a dynamic array of beautiful structures to view while
on your Turkey walking holiday.
Across Istanbul you will
see Byzantine architecture. The church of Haghia Sophia (commonly referred
to as Aya Sofya) is situated on Sultanahmet Square, and was designed by
Isidour and Anthemius in 532AD. This is one of the best examples of Byzantine
architecture, and is certainly worth visiting on a walking holiday in Turkey.
| Istanbul plays host to many
beautifully designed mosques, and stopping at some of these will give you
cultural and historical insight into Istanbul's Islamic world while on
walks in Turkey. Take some time to stop at the famous Blue Mosque, and
admire the Iznik tiles of the Sulemaniye, Rustem Pasa and Sokollu Mehmet
Pasa mosques.
Stop at the old capital of
the Eastern Roman Empire on your Turkey walking holiday, as you admire
the lasting evidence of Constantinople. There are several Roman structures
which are interesting to see, such as the Valens Aqueduct, the Hippodrome
of Constantine and the Basilica Cistern.
The many different styles
of architecture visible in Istanbul make for excellent sightseeing opportunities
on a Turkey walking holiday.
Visiting the Local Markets
on Your Walking Holiday
One of the most interesting
activities to do when on a Turkey walking holiday is to visit the vibrant
local markets of Istanbul. Breathe in the scents at the Spice Bazaar, and
spend time wandering through the flower and fish markets. |
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The Grand Bazaar is a great
place to visit if you want to pick up some Turkish items on your walking
holiday in Turkey. From Turkish carpets to pottery to cotton and wool clothing,
you can spend hours browsing through the many shops offering an interesting
variety of wares.
From scenery to architecture
to eclectic markets, Istanbul is an excellent city for a Turkey walking
holiday.
About the Author: Tony Maniscalco
is the Sales and Marketing for Ramblers Countrywide Holidays. Ramblers
Worldwide have been operating since 1946 and now offer over 250 holidays
in more than 70 different countries. They are dedicated to providing the
very finest Turkey walks at the best value prices. |
