Istanbul city breaks

A depth of culture and history

The myriad delights of a city which has long acted as a crossroads between diverse civilizations are waiting to be uncovered on an Istanbul city break from The Co-operative Travel.

Such breaks have been made possible by the city’s greater openness, but you’re sure to still capture a flavour of the drama and upheaval which has been central to its development.

The Bosphorous river splits Istanbul in two, and gives it a unique dual personality, part-European and part-Asian, that presents a great deal of intriguing experiences for visitors on a short break or Istanbul city break.

Initially known as Byzantium, and later Constantinople, the city’s major sights are all to be found in the old city, such as the Topkapi Palace – complete with 400-room harem - Blue Mosque, and Aya Sofia church, once considered the holiest in the Christian world.

experience a luxurious shopping experience in istanbul

And you can never consider yourself a consummate shopper until you’ve tackled the incredible 4,000 outlets in the sprawling Grand Bazaar. One thing’s for sure, your Istanbul short break won’t leave you short of souvenir ideas.

For a city with such a depth of culture and history, there’s also a surprising amount of modern attractions to be enjoyed across in the New City. Here, and especially in the Beyoglu district, you’ll find an atmosphere which just screams ‘everybody party!’.  Here too, you’ll find the city’s premier restaurants, offering European fusion cuisine and modern specialities which will once and for all dispel the myth that the kebab is Turkey’s national dish.

Once that’s out of your system, hit the heights of the top of the Galata Tower for an unbeatable view encompassing a multitude of minarets and rambling rooftops.

Whether it’s culture, shopping, quality restaurants or just great weather you’re looking for on an Istanbul short break, you’re sure to get your fill. See The Co-operative Travel now for the latest availability, and see the deals and offers we have available.