What was once the capital of Turkey is now a truly amazing location for a city break. Culturally, historically and literally divided between east and west – Asia and Europe, it makes for a fascinating city with plenty to see and do. Most of Turkey’s holiday makers will spend a good portion of time here, so here are some of the things you should see and do when visiting this enchanting city:

Old City Walls of Istanbul

Dating from back when Istanbul was Constantinople, the old city walls are rather hard to miss. Believed to be the largest fortress constructed in the Christian era, the various towers and extended fortification remain an incredible sight to see to this day. Although much of the walls have been dismantled as the city continued to grow beyond its medieval limits, a restoration programme has been underway since the 1980s and you can get a real glimpse of the imposing defence system on your Turkey holiday.

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Gallipoli

Gallipoli is a pilgrimage destination for the thousands of Australians and New Zealanders who visit the destination on April 25th every year in order to pay their respects and watch the ANZAC day memorial celebrations. The Turkish leader feared that if England, France and Russia defeated Germany in the Great War then Turkey would be derived of more of its empire, so Turkey joined forces with Germany and fought against the allies. This saw New Zealand’s entrance to the Great War and although the campaign was minor in numerical terms, it still holds great significance and personal importance to the Australians and New Zealanders who knew someone that fought there. On your holiday in Turkey the area is definitely worth a visit and you can expect to see an extensive collection of Great War paraphernalia from sunken battleships to guns, forts and battalions.

Cappadoccia

The fairytale castles of Cappadocia are simply breathtaking and a hot-air balloon ride over the peaks of them provides the perfect finale to your holiday in Turkey. The area is steeped with mystery and although the rock formations are said to be the result of years of fire, water and wind working together to create the outstanding landscapes, no one is quite sure why the inhabitants choose to live underground in cave houses. The houses date from 3000 BC and you can visit the inside of one whilst on your holiday in Turkey.

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With more history and heritage than many European countries, Turkey holidays are ideal for anyone with even a passing interest in European history. With structures dating back as far as the Neolithic era as well as wonderful beaches and stunning scenery, even those for whom history is just a forgotten school subject will be able to find plenty of things to keep them busy. Whether you’re interested in a trip lounging by the beach, or simply want to soak up some local culture, Turkey offers all kinds of luxurious accommodation for the discerning traveller. There are also a range of exceptional restaurants and cafes, ready to provide an array of traditional, local foods.

With gastronomic and architectural influences from Europe and the Middle East, Turkey is a wonderfully cosmopolitan destination. Those interested in food can enjoy a wide array of locally available produce, whilst anyone interested in art and architecture can enjoy cities boasting thousands of years worth if history. Holidays in Turkey are an excellent way to step into past, with traditions and customs still honoured and many centuries, including Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar – one of the most enduring markets in the world. In addition to ancient sites such as these, visitors can also enjoy a selection of strictly modern activities such as water-skiing and windsurfing.

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