Over the years we have made several trips to this interesting and exotic city where Europe meets Asia. We have always found it a most attractive and friendly place (mind you, I was almost arrested for painting the Hajia Sofia-yeah really!)
The main attractions, Mosques, Grand Bazaar, Eminonu Pier, etc., are mainly in a small city centre area. Topkapi Palace, Harem Galata Bridge (with its fishermen), panorama museum.
Take the ferry to Beyoglu and Taksim – busier and more commercial. Also Besiktas and Ortakoy. Other areas are easily reached by Tram or Ferry or passenger boat along the Bosphorous right up to the Black Sea (a really nice trip).
Istanbul
