Istanbul: Exploring its Enchanting Surroundings

Istanbul is a mesmerizing city that epitomizes the merging of cultures, a bridge between Europe and Asia. Renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, this Turkish gem has captivated travelers from all over the world. However, there is so much more to Istanbul than meets the eye. Beyond the city's borders lie enchanting surroundings just waiting to be explored. Join us on a virtual journey as we venture into the extraordinary areas that surround Istanbul.

Magnificent Byzantine Ruins in Edirne

Located just a few hours away from Istanbul, Edirne is a treasure trove of Byzantine architecture and history. The city's crown jewel is the magnificent Selimiye Mosque, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire the intricate artwork, majestic domes, and towering minarets that make this mosque one of the architectural wonders of the world. Stroll through the narrow alleys of Edirne and discover hidden gems, including the Old Mosque and the Selimiye Arasta Bazaar. Immerse yourself in history as you explore this city that perfectly balances old-world charm with modern vibrancy.

The Breathtaking Beauty of Princes' Islands

Just a short ferry ride away from bustling Istanbul, the Princes' Islands offer a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle. These idyllic islands, car-free and filled with charming wooden mansions, exude a nostalgic ambiance. Explore the largest island, Büyükada, on a horse-drawn carriage or rent a bicycle to meander through its picturesque streets. Venture into the island's hidden coves, relax on pristine beaches, and indulge in fresh seafood delicacies. The Princes' Islands provide a tranquil retreat, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature and unwind from the fast-paced urban life.

Istanbul & Its Surroundings

by Kyung Suk Oh(Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1987 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	196 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Discover the Untamed Beauty of Belgrad Forest

Situated on the European side of Istanbul, the Belgrad Forest is an untouched oasis that offers a peaceful respite from the city's chaos. This vast greenery spans over 5,500 hectares and is a popular destination for hiking, cycling, and picnicking. Lose yourself in the pristine wilderness, breathe in the fresh air, and reconnect with nature. The forest is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, providing a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Whether you choose to embark on a challenging hike or simply relax under a tree's shade, Belgrad Forest promises an enchanting experience for visitors seeking tranquility.

Unveiling the Secrets of Sile

Located along the Black Sea coast, Sile is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and adventure. The town is famous for its beautiful sandy beaches, making it a popular destination for sunbathers and water sports enthusiasts. Explore the ancient Sile Castle, perched on a cliff overlooking the dazzling sea. Discover the traditional art of silk weaving, which has been practiced in Sile for centuries. Don't forget to indulge in the town's gastronomic delights, especially freshly caught fish and the famous Sile Bezi desserts. Sile provides a unique experience that combines relaxation, exploration, and immersion in the rich cultural heritage of the area.

Istanbul, with its captivating surroundings, truly offers something for everyone. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or a seeker of hidden gems, the areas surrounding Istanbul will fulfill your desires. Embarking on a journey beyond the city's borders allows you to delve deeper into the Turkish culture, witness breathtaking landscapes, and create memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack your bags and let Istanbul's enchanting surroundings mesmerize you.

Istanbul & Its Surroundings

by Kyung Suk Oh(Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1987 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	196 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

The second you land in Istanbul two things hit you: how vast it is and how chaotic. The cauldron of noise builds in the morning with the first call to prayer. As the city springs to life, ferries and tankers weave their way across the Bosphorus Strait from Asia to Europe and traffic chokes the streets. Hundreds of fishermen line the Galata Bridge in search of their daily catch to sell in cafés nestled below, while seagulls swoop and squall. At the end of the bridge, locals crush into the dark passageways at Eminönü's spice market and along the warrens of the Grand Bazaar for another day of haggling.

Turkey is so diverse it could almost be described as a continent rather than a country. In the west, mountains and pine forests frame a staggeringly beautiful coastline. The central steppe has the peculiar rock churches and underground cities of Cappadocia and the cosmopolitan capital of Ankara. In the east, there are biblical rivers, a fabled mountain and haunting cities and palaces. Then, there is the magnetism of Istanbul. Turkey s location straddles Asia and Europe. The three great Empires that ruled the country for thousands of years left a legacy of enchanting cultures and more ancient sites than even Italy or Greece can boast. Major areas dealt with in the guide include Istanbul, Thrace and Marmara, the Aegean Coast, the Mediterranean Coast, Central Anatolia, Cappadocia, the Black Sea Coast. Covered in detail for each area are where to stay, where to eat, shopping, sightseeing and adventures, both cultural and physical from walking in the footsteps of St. Paul to joining in the local festivals, from yoga and Turkish baths to art classes and cooking courses. This guide combines in-depth text information with color maps & photos on almost every page. Existing guides are largely text-only or mostly graphics and lacking the practical details travelers need.

"Excellent guide. If, like me, you are a bit tired of the ethnocentric social commentary that seems to come with certain well known guidebooks then you could do worse than try this one. Simple to use, well written and accurate, I found it invaluable and couldn't fault any of its recommendations nor descriptions." -- Yurt (Amazon reviewer)

Trade has, for the past 2,500 years, been the lifeblood of Istanbul. The city's location made it a prominent trading route and its inhabitants cling to that tradition. In Istanbul, it seems everyone is trying to sell you something, from the street peddlers offering fake perfume and shoe shines to markets with their elaborate displays of fish, nuts and Turkish sweets.

The history and geography of Istanbul promise a taste of the exotic. Every corner throws up a relic of the Byzantium or Ottoman empires and as much as modern Istanbul tries to shake it off, the flavor of the East is everywhere.

Istanbul is almost drowning from the weight of its archeological treasures. But it is so much more than just a history lesson. Its waterways, music, parks, food and people create an exhilarating piece of theatre. It is no surprise that Istanbul has been chosen as the European Capital of Culture in 2010.

This guide includes the extensive introductory section on Turkey as a whole from our complete Adventure Guide to Turkey (644 pages in print),as well as the the chapters on Istanbul and the surrounding area.