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As well as being the most populous city in Turkey, Istanbul is also known as the country’s cultural and financial center. It is referred to as the bridge between the Asian and European continents as it is situated on both sides of Bosphorus Strait which links the Black Sea with the Marmara Sea. In 2010, Istanbul was listed as one of the three cultural capitals of Europe. The city is also the home of some excellent shopping opportunities. Listed below are some of Istanbul’s best street markets to explore when visiting the city.

The capital and second largest city in Turkey behind Istanbul is the city of Ankara. It is geographically located in the heart of Central Anatolia and Turkey. It is well known that the locals appreciate and welcome tourists while trying to be as helpful as possible. Most of the younger individuals speak English but most residents will try to speak the language if they recognized that you are from an English-speaking country.

Istanbul is in many ways the ultimate weekend break destination. Its location means that visitors from Europe can fly only a few hours from home and yet reach the first fringe of the exotic and mysterious East. Budget airlines have made getting here easy and the history and culture of the city mean that there is more than enough to pack a weekend’s schedule full to bursting.

The most populous city in Turkey is the city of Istanbul as well as being its cultural and financial center. It is situated on both sides of the Bosphorus Strait, the narrow waterway that separates the Black and the Marmara Seas. Istanbul has long been considered the bridge that links Asia with Europe both culturally and geographically. It is also known for its wide array of nightlife choices and features numerous pubs and cocktail bars that are worth visiting.

Istanbul, Turkey, famously sits astride both Europe and Asia but it often feels like it has much more affinity with the East, especially for casual visitors more used to predictable tourist experiences further west. These are some tips for visitors to minimise the culture shock and ensure that you get the best out of this ancient, varied and wonderful city.

Photo by Greenwich Photography

Istanbul is one of the most visually-appealing metropolitan cities of the world. Rows of mosques have been constructed throughout the city, but these three really caught my eye and piqued my interest. While they all are beautiful pieces of architecture and popular tourist attractions, they are also houses of worship for many, so it is wise to be culturally-vigilant and cover up before entering.

The most populous city in Turkey is Istanbul and is also considered the cultural and financial center of the country. As of this past year (2010), Istanbul is one of the three Capitals of Culture in Europe and has grown in popularity as an international tourist destination.

Photo by Dave Tromp