By Deanna Niles McConnell
Istanbul
Turkey
Turkey
Photo gallery
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Blue MosquePhoto By: Deanna Niles McConnell -
Spice MarketPhoto By: Deanna Niles McConnell -
OrtaköyPhoto By: IHG Hotel Group -
Galata TowerPhoto By: IHG Hotel Group -
Saint SophiaPhoto By: IHG Hotel Group -
St. Antoine ChurchPhoto By: IHG Hotel Group -
Taksim SquarePhoto By: IHG Hotel Group -
Tunnel Area Pera DistrictPhoto By: IHG Hotel Group
Istabul, Turkey, once known as Constantinople and before that Byzantium, is truly an incredible city. Settled around 667 BC, Istanbul still serves as the bridge between Europe and Asia and is a historically rich, fantastically exciting destination for backpackers and sophisticates alike. Istanbul is Turkey’s most famous city and a focal point of its history. Formerly a Grecian colony called Byzantium, the city’s name changed to Constantinople as it became an outpost of the Roman Empire. Then in the 15th century, Sultan Mehmed II sacked the city and changed its name to Istanbul, the new capital of the Ottoman Empire. Though the capital of Turkey became Ankara after Turkey won its independence, Istanbul remains a major player in Turkish culture.
EscapeWizard.com can help you book a perfect vacation to Istanbul. International flights go through Istanbul's Ataturk International Airport (IST) and can be booked through EscapeWizard.com by following this link (www.escapewizard.com/flight.php). Istanbul also has a great variety of hotels to accommodate any budget. Use the hotel portion of EscapeWizard.com to locate the perfect Istanbul hotel for your trip (www.escapewizard.com/hotels.php?flag=htl). While in the city, tourists should enjoy the sightseeing ferries and charter boats that run up and down the Bosphorus Straits.
Though all of Istanbul's neighborhoods hold interesting treasures, most travelers will want to begin their vacation in Sultanahmet, or the "Old City." This area of Istanbul has the highest concentration of old monuments and cultural sights originally constructed during the Byzantine and Ottoman periods. It is in this neighborhood that you'll find storied domes of the still-functional Blue Mosque and the intricate mosaics of the Hagia Sofia. Nearby, the Topkapi Palace boasts fabulous views of the Bosphorus and artifacts of the Ottoman era. For those who want a spooky holiday activity, the Basillica Cistern is a preserved 1500-year-old underground waterway once meant to sustain Istanbul in the event of an attack.
But if you wish to indulge in more sensory pleasures, Istanbul's markets and hamams are just the ticket. Be prepared to haggle at the Grand Bazaar, a wonderful place to stock up on gifts and souvenirs. Cooks and foodies will want to hit Istanbul’s Egyptian Bazaar, also known as the Spice Market, for savory herbs and exotic spices. Hamams are the traditional Turkish baths: steamy, purifying scrubs and massages that are key to an authentic Istanbul experience. The Cemberlitas Hamam is resplendent with glorious marble and offers thorough Turkish massage treatments.
While famous for its history, Istanbul easily bridges the ancient with the modern with a thriving arts, food and nightlife scene. Cihangir and Nisantasi host numerous galleries and artists, many with innovative and interesting works to sell. Another popular neighborhood is the Beyoglu district. By day, Beyoglu’s Istiklal Caddesi offers boutiques, restaurants, galleries and great people-watching. At night Beyoglu explodes with music, dancing and enough action to ensure a wild good time.
Istanbul is an easily accessible city for vacationers, with modern conveniences like a subway and bus system and a ferry to guide travelers up and down the Bosphorus River. But despite these contemporary touches, Istanbul retains its ancient charm in every winding street, bustling bazaar, and remarkable structure. Let EscapeWizard.com be your portal for an unforgettable vacation in Istanbul! Book your next vacation with the simple click of your mouse.
EscapeWizard.com can help you book a perfect vacation to Istanbul. International flights go through Istanbul's Ataturk International Airport (IST) and can be booked through EscapeWizard.com by following this link (www.escapewizard.com/flight.php). Istanbul also has a great variety of hotels to accommodate any budget. Use the hotel portion of EscapeWizard.com to locate the perfect Istanbul hotel for your trip (www.escapewizard.com/hotels.php?flag=htl). While in the city, tourists should enjoy the sightseeing ferries and charter boats that run up and down the Bosphorus Straits.
Though all of Istanbul's neighborhoods hold interesting treasures, most travelers will want to begin their vacation in Sultanahmet, or the "Old City." This area of Istanbul has the highest concentration of old monuments and cultural sights originally constructed during the Byzantine and Ottoman periods. It is in this neighborhood that you'll find storied domes of the still-functional Blue Mosque and the intricate mosaics of the Hagia Sofia. Nearby, the Topkapi Palace boasts fabulous views of the Bosphorus and artifacts of the Ottoman era. For those who want a spooky holiday activity, the Basillica Cistern is a preserved 1500-year-old underground waterway once meant to sustain Istanbul in the event of an attack.
But if you wish to indulge in more sensory pleasures, Istanbul's markets and hamams are just the ticket. Be prepared to haggle at the Grand Bazaar, a wonderful place to stock up on gifts and souvenirs. Cooks and foodies will want to hit Istanbul’s Egyptian Bazaar, also known as the Spice Market, for savory herbs and exotic spices. Hamams are the traditional Turkish baths: steamy, purifying scrubs and massages that are key to an authentic Istanbul experience. The Cemberlitas Hamam is resplendent with glorious marble and offers thorough Turkish massage treatments.
While famous for its history, Istanbul easily bridges the ancient with the modern with a thriving arts, food and nightlife scene. Cihangir and Nisantasi host numerous galleries and artists, many with innovative and interesting works to sell. Another popular neighborhood is the Beyoglu district. By day, Beyoglu’s Istiklal Caddesi offers boutiques, restaurants, galleries and great people-watching. At night Beyoglu explodes with music, dancing and enough action to ensure a wild good time.
Istanbul is an easily accessible city for vacationers, with modern conveniences like a subway and bus system and a ferry to guide travelers up and down the Bosphorus River. But despite these contemporary touches, Istanbul retains its ancient charm in every winding street, bustling bazaar, and remarkable structure. Let EscapeWizard.com be your portal for an unforgettable vacation in Istanbul! Book your next vacation with the simple click of your mouse.
Hotels in Istanbul
By Summer Brons
Crowne Plaza - Old City
Ordu Caddesi 226 Lalei Eminonu, Istanbul, Turkey
Ordu Caddesi 226 Lalei Eminonu, Istanbul, Turkey
Photo gallery
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ExteriorPhoto By: IHG Hotel Group -
AtriumPhoto By: IHG Hotel Group -
Turkish BathPhoto By: IHG Hotel Group -
Executive RoomPhoto By: IHG Hotel Group -
Single Bed GuestroomPhoto By: IHG Hotel Group -
Shebap RestaurantPhoto By: IHG Hotel Group -
SaunaPhoto By: IHG Hotel Group -
LobbyPhoto By: IHG Hotel Group
Istanbul is known for its lengthy history and gorgeous architecture. Make the most of your visit to this legendary city by booking your stay with the Crowne Plaza hotel in Istanbul's Old City. Located just 15 KM from Ataturk Airport (IST), you'll enjoy the convenience of walking distance to Istanbul University, tram stations and the many offerings around the historic centre.
The Crowne Plaza Istanbul Old City is the ideal venue to begin your European adventure. Go sight-seeing at Blue Mosque, Topaki Palace, Hagia Sophia, or browse the Grand Bazaar and the shops of the Beyazit district.
On-site amenities at the Crowne Plaza are sure to further enhance your experience. Beyond well-equipped business and fitness centers, guests can also take advantage of an indoor pool, gift shop, beauty salon, wireless internet access, and even an authentic Turkish bath for the ultimate in relaxation.
Dining options are also available within the Crowne Plaza Old City. Start your day in the courtyard with a cup of cofee, or enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner at the Lale Restaurant. Lale serves a variety of international cuisine for your dining pleasure. Abre Lounge, located in the Crowne Plaza's lobby, is the perfect place to meet friends for a cocktail or sip a glass of wine during an afternoon break. Room service is also available 24 hours a day.
When it's time to retire to your guest room each evening, you'll gladly welcome the comforts you've come to expect from the Crowne Plaza. Enjoy a plush bed, flat-screen TV, work desk, coffee maker, mini bar, hairdryer and bath amenities; all standard in each room. Those visiting Istanbul for a special occasion or an extended stay may choose to upgrade to a luxurious suite, sure to make your stay even more memorable.
There's no need to sacrifice comfort and luxury during your vacation in Istanbul, simply plan your lodging accommodations with the Crowne Plaza Istanbul Old city and savor the entire experience. Book your stay with EscapeWizard.com by clicking (www.escapewizard.com/hotels.php?flag=htl).
The Crowne Plaza Istanbul Old City is the ideal venue to begin your European adventure. Go sight-seeing at Blue Mosque, Topaki Palace, Hagia Sophia, or browse the Grand Bazaar and the shops of the Beyazit district.
On-site amenities at the Crowne Plaza are sure to further enhance your experience. Beyond well-equipped business and fitness centers, guests can also take advantage of an indoor pool, gift shop, beauty salon, wireless internet access, and even an authentic Turkish bath for the ultimate in relaxation.
Dining options are also available within the Crowne Plaza Old City. Start your day in the courtyard with a cup of cofee, or enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner at the Lale Restaurant. Lale serves a variety of international cuisine for your dining pleasure. Abre Lounge, located in the Crowne Plaza's lobby, is the perfect place to meet friends for a cocktail or sip a glass of wine during an afternoon break. Room service is also available 24 hours a day.
When it's time to retire to your guest room each evening, you'll gladly welcome the comforts you've come to expect from the Crowne Plaza. Enjoy a plush bed, flat-screen TV, work desk, coffee maker, mini bar, hairdryer and bath amenities; all standard in each room. Those visiting Istanbul for a special occasion or an extended stay may choose to upgrade to a luxurious suite, sure to make your stay even more memorable.
There's no need to sacrifice comfort and luxury during your vacation in Istanbul, simply plan your lodging accommodations with the Crowne Plaza Istanbul Old city and savor the entire experience. Book your stay with EscapeWizard.com by clicking (www.escapewizard.com/hotels.php?flag=htl).
Hotels in Istanbul
By Summer Brons
Holiday Inn
Mahmutbey Mah Tasocagi Yolu Cad. NO 35, Istanbul, Turkey
Mahmutbey Mah Tasocagi Yolu Cad. NO 35, Istanbul, Turkey
Photo gallery
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ExteriorPhoto By: IHG Hotel Group -
BallroomPhoto By: IHG Hotel Group -
Turkish BathPhoto By: IHG Hotel Group -
Queen Bed GuestroomPhoto By: IHG Hotel Group -
RestaurantPhoto By: IHG Hotel Group -
Presidential SuitePhoto By: IHG Hotel Group -
Gift ShopPhoto By: IHG Hotel Group -
Fitness CenterPhoto By: IHG Hotel Group
Make the most of your Istanbul vacation by treating yourself to five-star luxury when you plan your accommodations at the Holday Inn Istanbul Airport. Conveniently located between Istanbul and the Ataturk Airport (IST), you'll be perfectly situated to enjoy the offerings of this exciting, historic city.
Take advantage of the wonderful sights and sounds of Istanbul by explore the Grand Bazaar, Beyazit district, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Topaki Palace, just to name a few. You'll quickly understand why Istanbul is one of Europe's most beloved and beautiful cities.
On-site conveniences at the Holiday Inn will help ensure that you're able to stay as productive or as relaxed as you wish. Feel free to utilize the well-equipped business center and wireless internet access, stay active in the state-of-the-art fitness center, take a dip in the indoor swimming pool, visit the Turkish baths, enjoy a service from the Mandala Spa, even send the kids to play in the generously filled Game Room.
The Holiday Inn Istanbul Airport also features a variety of delicious dining options. Savor breakfast, lunch or dinner at the Tulip Restaurant, serving unique international cuisine; enjoy lunch or dinner at the Saltanat Restaurant, the perfect place to sample authentic Turkish and Ottoman cuisine; and wrap up the evening with a nightcap at one of the Holiday Inn's on-site lounges. The Starlight Bar is scenically located on the 15th floor and the Cafe Inn serves a variety of coffee and tea specialities, as well as plenty of alcoholic selections.
The comforts of your private guest room will surely be welcomed after a long day exploring Istanbul. Enjoy plush bedding, cable TV, a work desk, complimentary wireless internet access, coffee maker, mini bar, hairdryer and bath amenities. Luxurious suites are also available for upgrade for those who wish to make the most of their five-star stay.
Relax in comfort and convenience when you plan your Istanbul vacation around your stay at the Holiday Inn Istanbul Airport hotel. Book your dates using EscapeWizard.com by clicking (www.escapewizard.com/hotels.php?flag=htl).
Take advantage of the wonderful sights and sounds of Istanbul by explore the Grand Bazaar, Beyazit district, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Topaki Palace, just to name a few. You'll quickly understand why Istanbul is one of Europe's most beloved and beautiful cities.
On-site conveniences at the Holiday Inn will help ensure that you're able to stay as productive or as relaxed as you wish. Feel free to utilize the well-equipped business center and wireless internet access, stay active in the state-of-the-art fitness center, take a dip in the indoor swimming pool, visit the Turkish baths, enjoy a service from the Mandala Spa, even send the kids to play in the generously filled Game Room.
The Holiday Inn Istanbul Airport also features a variety of delicious dining options. Savor breakfast, lunch or dinner at the Tulip Restaurant, serving unique international cuisine; enjoy lunch or dinner at the Saltanat Restaurant, the perfect place to sample authentic Turkish and Ottoman cuisine; and wrap up the evening with a nightcap at one of the Holiday Inn's on-site lounges. The Starlight Bar is scenically located on the 15th floor and the Cafe Inn serves a variety of coffee and tea specialities, as well as plenty of alcoholic selections.
The comforts of your private guest room will surely be welcomed after a long day exploring Istanbul. Enjoy plush bedding, cable TV, a work desk, complimentary wireless internet access, coffee maker, mini bar, hairdryer and bath amenities. Luxurious suites are also available for upgrade for those who wish to make the most of their five-star stay.
Relax in comfort and convenience when you plan your Istanbul vacation around your stay at the Holiday Inn Istanbul Airport hotel. Book your dates using EscapeWizard.com by clicking (www.escapewizard.com/hotels.php?flag=htl).
Hotels in Istanbul
By Rose Overbey
Grand Hyatt Istanbul
Taskisla Caddesi, Taksim, Istanbul, Turkey
Taskisla Caddesi, Taksim, Istanbul, Turkey
Photo gallery
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BallroomPhoto By: Hyatt Hotels -
BarPhoto By: Hyatt Hotels -
SuitePhoto By: Hyatt Hotels -
SpaPhoto By: Hyatt Hotels -
RestaurantPhoto By: Hyatt Hotels -
Meeting RoomPhoto By: Hyatt Hotels -
LobbyPhoto By: Hyatt Hotels -
Fitness CenterPhoto By: Hyatt Hotels
The Grand Hyatt Istanbul hotel is the perfect place to stay if you're looking for luxurious rooms in a convenient location. This hotel is located next to Taksim Square and Istiklal street -- right in the new center of modern Istanbul. The Grand Hyatt Istanbul is not only located in the center of modern Istanbul, but it's wonderful features reflect this blend of modern and the converging of East and West.
Guests are sure to be pleased with the location of the Grand Hyatt Istanbul, it is moments from many of Istanbul's wonderful attractions. Guests will also be pleased with the wonderful city views from their rooms.
Visitors have a variety of room choices, but all rooms offer lush bedding, marble bath and high-speed internet access. Depending on your needs, you can stay in a suite, deluxe room, or club accommodations. Wherever you stay you will have access to the hotel's wonderful on site activities!
The Grand Hyatt Istanbul features a full spa and fitness center. Guests have their option of a variety of treatments at the spa, including many types of massages, an array of facial and skin treatments, as well as many body treatments.
The fitness center offers guests the opportunity for a full body workout. There are a variety of machines for cardio and weight training. There are plasma screens throughout the center and as well as high energy music. After a workout, guests can enjoy the steam room with an ice fountain or lounge in a traditional Turkish bath. There is also an outdoor pool for guests to relax by.
The hotel also offers guests a variety of choices in dining and lounging around the hotel. There are two full service restaurants, Spazio Restaurant and Agora Restaurant. Spazio offers guests an elegant atmosphere and Italian cuisine. Agora offers buffets at each meal of Asian Turkish and other international cuisine. Guests have their choice of lounges, from the Mezzanine Bar and Lounge, and it's breathtaking views of the waterfall and gardens -- to the Library Bar, which is a relaxing lounge for guests to recoup in after a long day. Guests will also enjoy the Gazebo, a lounge located along the pool that offers cocktail and barbeque in the relaxing outdoor environment.
EscapeWizard.com highly recommends booking your hotel room at The Grand Hyatt Istanbul. You're sure to enjoy your visit. You can do so by following this link (www.escapewizard.com/hotels.php?flag=htl).
Guests are sure to be pleased with the location of the Grand Hyatt Istanbul, it is moments from many of Istanbul's wonderful attractions. Guests will also be pleased with the wonderful city views from their rooms.
Visitors have a variety of room choices, but all rooms offer lush bedding, marble bath and high-speed internet access. Depending on your needs, you can stay in a suite, deluxe room, or club accommodations. Wherever you stay you will have access to the hotel's wonderful on site activities!
The Grand Hyatt Istanbul features a full spa and fitness center. Guests have their option of a variety of treatments at the spa, including many types of massages, an array of facial and skin treatments, as well as many body treatments.
The fitness center offers guests the opportunity for a full body workout. There are a variety of machines for cardio and weight training. There are plasma screens throughout the center and as well as high energy music. After a workout, guests can enjoy the steam room with an ice fountain or lounge in a traditional Turkish bath. There is also an outdoor pool for guests to relax by.
The hotel also offers guests a variety of choices in dining and lounging around the hotel. There are two full service restaurants, Spazio Restaurant and Agora Restaurant. Spazio offers guests an elegant atmosphere and Italian cuisine. Agora offers buffets at each meal of Asian Turkish and other international cuisine. Guests have their choice of lounges, from the Mezzanine Bar and Lounge, and it's breathtaking views of the waterfall and gardens -- to the Library Bar, which is a relaxing lounge for guests to recoup in after a long day. Guests will also enjoy the Gazebo, a lounge located along the pool that offers cocktail and barbeque in the relaxing outdoor environment.
EscapeWizard.com highly recommends booking your hotel room at The Grand Hyatt Istanbul. You're sure to enjoy your visit. You can do so by following this link (www.escapewizard.com/hotels.php?flag=htl).