Founded in 66BC as Byzantium, Istanbul, the capital of Turkey, is a cultural and historical goldmine. Bridging the Bosphorus and connecting Europe and Asia, the result is a cityscape full of spectacular architecture, from the Hagia Sophia , once the largest cathedral in the world and now a museum, to the fortresses of Anadoluhisan and Rumelihasan, to the Sultan Ahmed (or Blue) Mosque.
The Grand Bazaar market is one of the largest in the world; and offers some respite from the high temperatures in summer. If you hire a car in Istanbul, you'll be able to see more of the high end residences such the Topkapi, Dolmabahçe, Ç?ra?an and Beylerbeyi Palaces.
Given the city's rich history and Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman cultural influences, there are endless monuments and cultural experiences to enjoy. The Beyoglu district is the artistic centre of the city, and home to the Istanbul Modern, Santrallstanbul and the Pera and Sakip Sabanci museums.
Rent a car in Istanbul and drive up to the hilltop park of Büyük Çaml?ca, the highest point in the city. From here you'll be able to join the locals in enjoying the pretty gardens, and gazing across the minaret-filled skyline of Old Istanbul and gaze down the Bosphorus as it winds it's way to the Black Sea.
