Barcelo Eresin Topkapi, Istanbul

Advantages: Fascinating, historic, romantic, magical, nowhere else like it
Disadvantages: Must go at the right time, can be very busy

...aspects of other empires who had reigned over the city. The famous Haghia Sophia cathedral became instead the Aya Sofya, a magnificent mosque, today one of the city's chief attractions and the old name "Constantinople" was changed to Istanbul by Mehmet the Conqueror. Istanbul is teeming with historical treasures which means you are really spoiled for choice in deciding what to do. You do need to come to terms with the fact that on a short visit you are unlikely to be able to cram in as much as you'd like. Most places have long queues and, if you visit in the height of summer, the heat will slow you down. Don't be tempted to squeeze in too much sight-seeing; accept that you can't see everything. Places like the Topkapi Palace need at least half a day to do them any justice and even a visit to the Grand Bazaar will take longer than you think... Read review

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Advantages: So many wonderful sights, clean and easy to get around, reasonable prices
Disadvantages: Smoking in some places put us off our meals

...towards GULHANE PARKI which was once the Palace Park of the Topkapi Palace. It was really quite crowded but people were walking in all directions not like a football crowd all heading the same way. The park was really colourful with spring bulbs, tulips of all colours and lots of primroses. Above us in the trees were large storks building and renovating their nests and loudly telling everyone about it. At the entrance gate near the Topkapi Palace entrance there were several street vendors with trolley stalls selling candy floss, Turkish bread, chestnuts and other interesting snack types of food. We walked through the park enjoying the sunshine and flowers taking photos and generally soaking up the atmosphere of Istanbul/. At the other end of the park you come out onto the road running along the Bosporus towards the Galata Bridge. It was quite... Read review

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Advantages: Quiet, no traffic noise or pollution, good food, scenic
Disadvantages: Not huge amounts to do

...Just a short ferry ride from Istanbul, the Princes Islands are a brilliant place to kick back and escape the relentless noise and bustle of the city. Other than emergency vehicles, motorised vehicles are not allowed on the islands which makes them very peaceful and makes walking more enjoyable. I love to walk but Istanbul can be hard work for walkers and so visiting the Princes Islands gives you an opportunity to stroll without needing eyes in the back of your head. Huddled together in the Sea of Marmara, each island has a character of its own and it's easy to forget the proximity of one of the world's largest cities. The Islands can be visited all year round but ferry and hydrofoil services are less frequent in winter. One of the reasons they are so popular is that several of them have beaches and this is the nearest place to... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average very helpful