Istanbul

Known as the capital of the all capital cities that regioned first Roma, then Byzantium Empire and continents, and later Istanbul was the capital of Ottoman Empire. All the civilisations passed from this incredible geography, has left the prime examples of their architecture, magnificient buildings and historical sites in the city as their hallmarks.

The natural beauty of Istanbul is unique. Commanded by the Bosphorus Straits, it is built on seven hills. Variety in Istanbul is really charming the visitors, it has everything that one can find in a super modern metropolis besides the foodsteps of the past and that makes Istanbul one of the most impressive cities in the world.

Surrounding the whole city is one of the world's most coveted and most beautiful waterways - the Bosphorus - which flows 32 km. between Europe and Asia. Along the shores of the Bosphorus is a garland of charming small villages that have existed since time immemorial, once home to Istanbul's Christian and Jewish minorities.

Historically admired for its sunny temperament, Istanbul has a climate more similar to that of the Northern Italy than the Aegean or Mediterranean region. Average daytime temperature in summer is 28ºC, and in winter 10ºC. Located on 41.02º and 29.06º longitude, at the convergence of the Sea of Marmara , the Black Sea and the Bosphorus Straits, Istanbul has long summer days refreshed by cooling breezes from the sea. The city has a favourable time zone of GMT+2, a major advantage for the visitors.

Among the world's leading cities, Istanbul offers one of the most secure urban environments. Historically, Istanbul's crime rate has registered significantly below that of most large metropolitan areas. Although the Turkish population is made up of 26 different ethnic and religious groups; including the Muslims, Christians and Jews and their various denominations; these groups have lived together harmoniously for centuries. Despite a population of ten million and a density of 15,000 people per square kilometer, Istanbul is a metropolis that boasts a very low crime rate. Hagia Sophia, the Church of the Divine Wisdom, built in the 6th century Archeological Museum, located below the Topkapi Palace,has an extraordinary collection of Greco-Roman antiques. A truly magnificent building, St. Sophia will amaze you.

Istanbul offers a lot to its visitors not only a diversity of a EuroAsian culture in its vibrant atmosphere, but a lot of lifetime experiences like Historical Turkish Baths (Hamam), Culinary experiences of mouthwatering Turkish Cusine, Bosphorus Cruise Watching Two Continents at the same time, Hearing a Performance of the Ottoman Mehter Band, Immers yourself in the history of the Pera Palas Hotel, having a drink at the most luxuary old prison of the world at Four Seasons Hotel.