Overview
Take a trip to Istanbul on your Türkiye Vacation
When on Türkiye vacations, Istanbul is the largest city found in the northwestern part of the country. It is a transcontinental city as it straddles the Bosphorus (the Istanbul Strait) which divides the city into a European side and an Asian side.
Istanbul was once the imperial city of Constantinople which was, for almost a thousand years, the last outpost of the Roman Empire. Conquered by the Ottoman Empire in 1453, the city became the military centre for many campaigns that helped the empire to expand.
By the middle of the 16th century, the population of Istanbul had grown to nearly half a million developing into a major cultural, political and commercial centre remaining under Ottoman control until the First World War. Despite Ankara being named the capital of the newly formed Republic of Turkey in 1923, Istanbul continued to grow becoming an incredibly popular tourist destination while on a Türkiye vacation.
With its long history, many ancient monuments date back to the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman periods and as such, the historic areas of Istanbul became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. Such monuments include Hagia Sophia, a former Orthodox patriarchal basilica which has been turned into a museum and the Topkapi Palace which houses important holy relics from the Muslim world. While rich in history, Istanbul also offers exciting nightlife and is very fashionable and progressive making the city a true blend of ancient and modern to be experienced on a Türkiye vacation package.
With its long history, many ancient monuments date back to the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman periods and as such, the historic areas of Istanbul became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. Such monuments include Hagia Sophia, a former Orthodox patriarchal basilica which has been turned into a museum and the Topkapi Palace which houses important holy relics from the Muslim world. While rich in history, Istanbul also offers exciting nightlife and is very fashionable and progressive making the city a true blend of ancient and modern to be experienced on a Türkiye vacation package.
At a Glance
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Turkish Lira (TRY)What do the experts say?
Turkey is a vast country and home to many diverse communities. Therefore, there are many local traditions that showcase their distinct origins. Among many, one fascinating event in Turkey that visitors should witness is the ceremony of Whirling Dervishes in Cappadocia.
Few places layer ancient civilizations quite like Turkey. From the ruins of Ephesus, the legendary city of Troy, and the underground cities of Cappadocia, to the Byzantine and Ottoman grandeur of Istanbul - it's a living museum. Walking through the Hagia Sophia or along the ancient walls of Constantinople is like stepping into a history book.
Turkish cuisine is seriously underrated globally. From a simple simit on the street to a full meze spread and a sizzling kebab, every meal is an experience. And of course, Turkish tea and baklava are daily rituals you don’t want to miss.
The Blue Mosque - a must inclusion on all Turke...
View of Istanbul with Galata Tower in the backg...
Inside the grand bazaar
Yeni Cami mosque
Sunset panorama of Istanbul
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ExcellentBased on 5,244 ReviewsIsabella Luu made the arrangements for our trip to Scotland and all aspects of the trip and stay were excellent. Our assistance at the airports were very good as all were alerted to our needs. Our ride services were excellent. Isabella was always available to answer any questions that we had in a knowledgable and prompt manner, which is always very important to me.Audrey HenryHad an excellent tour of Australia, thanks to our travel specialist Katie Stephenson. She was patient as we kept modifying our plans. Got support from Goway and Katie when there was a need to rebook a tour midway through, all handled easily by Goway.Ron PrestonWe went on a highly customized comprehensive (though quick tour) of England and a bit of Scotland through Goway. Ingrid Aird did an amazing job of planning and arranging every detail with her deep experience, insight, thoughtfulness and creativity, tuning into the needs of each traveler; and she did so even though our decision to travel was rather spontaneous and last minute! Our family had the best time! We look forward to working with Ingrid and Goway again!Vilja BreilingWe used Goway to put together an itinerary for East Africa , and Zanzibar . Everything was great and went smoothly DawnI can't tell you enough how much I love to work with Callie. She is a life saver and I love how attentive she is. Every time I give her an itinerary for a client- she really knocks it out of the park with the proposal. If there are any issues- she is on it right away. Her work ethic is outstanding.Michelle LabarcaI had the pleasure of working with Amelia on a booking for a family of 4 to Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. She executed everything perfectly, was attentive to needs and the family was over the top happy with their vacation. She was quick to answer questions and provide helpful feedback. Highly recommended!Jessie WilliamsWe were trying to navigate Swiss Travel Center to book a 10 day train trip through Switzerland. It was exactly what we wanted but navigating their site was extremely difficult for us. Goway Travel picked up on our plight and put us in contact with Jacqueline Fagooli, one of their agents. From there on everything was so smooth. Their efficiency, communication, and thoroughness were beyond our expectations. The trip was fabulous and kudos to Jacqueline and Goway for their help in making it so.Carolyn McCormackThe destination specialist I've worked with (Kim Rawlings) has provided exceptional service. She is very knowledgeable of her region and everything they have to offer. She is very prompt in her communication and follow-up. She listens and is very attentive to my client's needs and wants. Kim's personality makes one feel like they've known each other for years.
If GoWay had a customer service model, Kim is it.T. Jackson, Tribe Trek TravelWe had a wonderful and amazing two weeks in North-West Scotland. Shoutout to Jacqueline at Goway Toronto and the driver/guides with Rabbie's minibus tours (Stefan and Willie). Well-chosen hotels and no worries with dietary requirements; every detail was taken care of. Thank you!
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