Istanbul is one of the world's great cities. There are so many wonderful reasons why you should visit this city. Istanbul is old, dating back thousands of years, and with that, there are many historical places to visit. Istanbul is gorgeous, with its assortment of mosques and their colourful tile work and dramatic architecture. Istanbul is charming; we met so many welcoming, friendly people here. And finally, Istanbul is home to the Hagia Sophia, an amazing architectural feat and one of the Wonders of the World.If you only have time for one thing in Istanbul, it should be the Hagia Sophia.This cathedral was constructed in 537 AD. For 900 years, it was the seat of the Orthodox Patriarch of Constantinople. The Hagia Sophia was the single greatest architectural achievement of the Byzantine Empire. In 1453, when the Ottomans took over Constantinople, the Hagia Sophia was turned into a mosque. It functioned as a museum until July 2020. Now, it is a mosque.

While in Istanbul, try some of the local foods. Kofte are meatballs made with lamb or beef. Pide is "Turkish pizza." Meze are cold appetizers. Dolmas are stuffed vine leaves or vegetables. Sis kebabs, skewers of cooked meat, are delicious. Doner is a meat sandwich made from lamb, beef, or chicken. Turkish delight (lokum) and baklava are two delicious options for dessert.

Istanbul is home to some of the friendliest people you will meet while traveling. If you are visiting Turkey with kids, Your children will be treated like royalty. The warmth and friendliness of the Turkish people will be one of the main reasons why you will fall in love with this country.

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