The cultural and economic centre of Turkey, Istanbul was known in the ancient times as Byzantium and later as Constantinople. Being a transcontinental city that serves as a bridge between Asia and Europe, it gives you some of the best experiences of both the cultures. It was named as the 'European Capital of Culture' in 2010, and there has been a tremendous surge in the number of foreign tourists arriving in the city since then. During your time spent in Istanbul, you'll come across some historic architectural wonders, museums, and other fabulous attractions of the city.
From June to August, the city experiences a significant rise in its temperatures and an increase in humidity. You’ll not see any drop in the tourist crowds despite the heat and the hotel accommodations would still be expensive. If you're able to brave the unexpected rains and cold climate of winter from December to February, you'll certainly be rewarded with some good deals on the room rates of hotels. The periods from September to November and from March to May are characterised by pleasant daytime temperatures and if you book your Istanbul holidays during these seasons, you can enjoy considerable reductions in the hotel room rates.
If there's one particular attraction in this Turkish city that you can't afford to miss during your cheap holidays to Istanbul, it would be the Sultan Ahmed Mosque or The Blue Mosque. It was constructed in the early 17th century during the rule of Sultan Ahmed I and is noted for its majestic architecture and a distinct blue shade. Located close to this historic mosque is Aya Sofya, another architectural masterpiece that was built as a church during the rule of Justinian, the Byzantine Emperor. You'll also be delighted to visit the Topkapi Palace, which was constructed in the 15th century by Sultan Mehmed II, also known as Mehmed the Conqueror.
An attraction that would take you by surprise is the Basilica Cistern. Built using 336 columns arranged in 12 rows, it was a source of water supply for the Byzantine emperors. You'll have some of the most memorable moments of your cheap Istanbul holidays upon visiting this attraction and witnessing the wonderful ambience with beautifully-lit columns and a steady trickle of water. The Hippodrome is another attraction dating back to the ancient times. It was the centre of the public life in Byzantine and its construction took nearly 130 years to complete.
One of the most recognised landmarks of this Turkish city is the Suleymaniye Mosque, which was built for Sultan Suleyman I, also known as Suleyman the Magnificent. The famous Ottoman architect, Sinan, had built this mosque for the sultan during the 16th century. If you wish to explore some astonishing artefacts from Turkey and the entire Middle East, visit the Istanbul Archaeology Museum. Your Istanbul trip would never be complete without a visit to the Grand Bazaar, which is considered as the first shopping mall of the world. This would also be a perfect place to buy some Turkish souvenirs.
You can click here to know more about cheap holidays to Antalya and the wonderful offerings that the Turkish city has in store for you.
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