Istanbul & Antalya

ABOUT THE DESTINATION:

Istanbul is a perfect destination for a city break or a weekend getaway, offering a unique mix of history, culture, gastronomy and stunning scenery — all at a budget-friendly price. As the only city in the world located on two continents, it combines the best of Europe and Asia, divided by the Bosphorus Strait. The historic heart of the city is on the European side, especially in Sultanahmet and Taksim, where many of the main sights and best accommodation options are located.

The city is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including iconic landmarks such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and the historic city walls. The impressive Topkapi Palace, once home to the Ottoman sultans, is another must-see. Exploring the Asian side is quick and easy by metro, or you can take a scenic ferry across the Bosphorus, enjoying views of the Maiden’s Tower and the Princes’ Islands along the way. With vibrant markets, excellent food and rich cultural heritage, Istanbul is an unforgettable and affordable choice for a short city weekend.

ABOUT THE DESTINATION: Antalya is the largest city on the Turkish Mediterranean coast, and is one of the hubs of the so-called Turkish Riviera. Having the most beautiful and the cleanest shores of the Mediterranean, along with the long coastal line of Antalya, one encounters antique sites, old ports, monumental graves, dramatic shores, endless beaches, green forests, rivers and waterfalls. Kaleici, enclosed in ancient city walls, is Antalya’s Old Quarter. It is one of the liveliest parts in the city with shops, bars, restaurants and entertainment facilities. The streets of Kaleici extend to the old harbour, which is used as an international yacht marina today. In the picturesque Old Quarter, you’ll find examples of Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman eras and numerous archaeological cities and historic buildings to explore. Antalya is an attractive city with shady palm-lined boulevards, considered by many as a paradise on earth and the pearl of the Mediterranean. Not bad, huh?