Istanbul is a vibrant metropolis in Turkey that straddles Asia and Europe, bisected by the Bosphorus Strait. Istanbul’s Old City is filled with cultural influences and dotted with reminders of the many different empires that once held power over these lands. The Roman-era, open-air Hippodrome that is located in the city’s Sultanahmet district was once the home of chariot races for several centuries. The iconic Byzantine Hagia Sophia features rare Christian mosaics and a marvelous 6th-century dome. The city is full of wonderful attractions for visitors to explore, such as the Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, Suleymaniye Mosque, Grand Bazaar, and Istanbul Archaeology Museum. Istanbul Map

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