The splendid city of Istanbul has many unique and fascinating features. It is the only city in the world reaching across two continents, with its old city in Europe and modern Istanbul situated in Asia, separated by the Bosphorus Strait. It is also unique in having had capital status during two successive empires, Christian Byzantine and Islamic Ottoman, and the legacy from both is visible in the modern city today.

Istanbul's location on the water made it a much coveted site as a commercial shipping port and military lookout, and as capital of the Roman Empire, Constantinople, as it was known, became extremely desirable as a centre of world trade, until Mehmet the Conqueror claimed it for the Ottoman Empire in 1453 and it became the imperial seat of the sultans. After the War of Independence the capital was moved to Ankara, but Istanbul still remains the commercial, historical and cultural heart of Turkey today.

The charm and character of Istanbul lies in its endless variety and jumble of contradictions. Its fascinating history has bequeathed the city a vivid inheritance of Byzantine ruins, splendid palaces, ancient mosques and churches, hamams (bath-houses) and exotic bazaars. Modern Istanbul exudes trendy bars and nightclubs, western boutiques, office blocks, and elegant suburbs. The call to prayer heralds the start of each day and the city comes to life with over 11 million residents forming a chaotic social and cultural mix of unscrupulous carpet merchants, wealthy shoppers, religiously veiled women and destitute beggars. Joining the noisy throng are over-awed tourists and those capitalising on the tourist trade.

Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya)

Address: Sultanahmet Square Istanbul

Admission: 15 YTL Open daily except Mondays from 9.30am to 4.30pm

Telephone: (212) 518 1802

Famous for its impressive size, remarkable architecture and beautiful mosaics and frescoes, the massive ochre-coloured domed structure known as Hagia Sophia is one of Istanbul's most popular attractions. It was commissioned as a cathedral in the 6th century and remained the most important church in Christianity for over 900 years. In the 15th century Mehmet II conquered the city and converted it into a mosque, adding the minarets and fountains. It functioned as such for the next 481 years until the founding of the secular Turkish Republic in 1934 when it was declared a museum. Hagia Sophia is one of the greatest Byzantine buildings in the world, and the vast interior, with its huge soaring dome, is extraordinary. The interior contains different features from its time as a cathedral and then as a mosque, including incredible Byzantine mosaics, icons and marble columns, a mihrab (niche indicating the direction of Mecca), and Islamic calligraphy inscriptions on the dome from the Ottoman period.

Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii)

Address: Hippodrome, Sultanahmet Istanbul

Admission: There is no charge for visiting the mosque, but the museum has a small entrance fee Open daily, access restricted during prayer times, especially at midday on Fridays. The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday between 9am and 4pm

Telephone: (212) 518 1319 or (212) 518 1330 (for museum information)

The Sultan Ahmet Camii, commonly known as the Blue Mosque, with its tiers of magnificent domes and six graceful minarets is one of the most striking and immediately distinguishable structures on the Istanbul's skyline. Constructed as an Islamic rival to the Hagia Sophia in 1609, it is one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture and is still used by hundreds of worshippers. The interior is splendidly decorated with thousands of blue and white Iznik tiles embellished with traditional Ottoman flower patterns, and it is this special feature that gives the mosque its name. Its design of successively descending smaller domes, soaring columns and 260 stained glass windows leaves a lasting impression of graceful accord and open space. At the back of the mosque is a Carpet and Kilim Museum exhibiting antiques from all over Turkey.

Topkapi Palace Museum

Address: Topkapi Sarayi, Sultanahmet Istanbul

Admission: US$10 -15 depending on exchange rate; concessions available. The Harem can only be visited on a guided tour and a separate ticket is required Open daily except Tuesdays from 9am to 5pm

Telephone: (212) 512 0480

The Topkapi Sarayi, built by Mehmet the Conqueror as a Sultan's Palace, consists of a sprawling collection of buildings arranged around several interconnecting courtyards. Magnificently situated on one of the seven hills of Istanbul with uninterrupted views over the Bosphorus River and the Golden Horn, it was the seat of the Ottoman Empire for almost four centuries. Home to nearly 3,000 people, it served as royal residence, harem, state administration and military barracks. One of the most popular sections is the harem, once the quarters of about 300 women who were the sultans' wives and concubines, and their children. Visitors can view the apartments, halls and terraces of the harem, and see the lavish royal bedchamber and Imperial Hall. No expense was spared in decorating the palace and exquisitely designed rooms, intricately detailed fountains and gateways, and the splendid Treasury, housing one of the greatest collections of treasure in the world, afford insight into the opulent lifestyle of the sultans of the Ottoman Empire.

Turkish and Islamic Art Museum

Address: Ibrahim Pasa Sarayi, Atmeydani 46, Hippodrome, Sultanahmet Istanbul

Admission: 4 YTL Open daily except Mondays from 9.30am to 5.30pm

Telephone: (212) 518 1805

The grand 16th century palace of the sultan's Grand Vizier, Ibrahim Pasa, today houses the Turkish and Islamic Art Museum, containing what many consider to be the finest collection of Islamic artefacts in the world. The palace itself was the finest private residence ever built in the Ottoman Empire. From its supreme position overlooking the Hippodrome, the sultan could enjoy excellent views of the celebrations in the square below. The museum is well laid out and contains more than 40,000 examples of Selçuk, Mamluk and Ottoman Turkish art, including ceramics, Koran cases, calligraphy, textiles, metalwork and illuminated manuscripts. Its antique carpet exhibit is renowned; the carpets, kilims and prayer rugs forming one of the richest and oldest collections in the world.

Covered Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi)

Address: Kapali Çarsi, Beyazit to Eminönü Harbour Istanbul

Admission: Free Open daily except Sundays from 8.30am to 7pm

The oldest and biggest enclosed bazaar in the world, also known as the Grand Bazaar, is one of the most enticing and mesmerizing attractions in Istanbul. Consisting of a vast labyrinth of 65 twisting streets crammed with more than 4,000 shops, teahouses, hamams (Turkish baths), mosques, storehouses and fountains. It is a fascinating experience to wander around the alleyways, looking and enjoying, or bargaining and purchasing. Here you can find almost anything, from meerschaum pipes, carpets and jewellery, to Turkish Delight, textiles, spices, clothing and hand-painted ceramics. Protracted bargaining over a cup of tea is an important institution. Built during the rule of Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror in 1461, the bazaar grew by covering an increasingly large area of shops and streets with roofs, arches and domes, and it became the centre of trading during the Ottoman period. Caravans of silk traders traditionally stayed here and rested their camels while selling their merchandise, and many of these 'hans' or caravanserais still exist as storehouses today.

Sunken Palace

Address: Istanbul

Admission: 9am to 5pm daily except Tuesday

Telephone: 212 522 1259

Also known as the Underground Cistern or Yerebatan Saray, this eerie cavern was built by Constantinople the Great around 532 AD and is held up below ground by 336 columns. Once a set for the James Bond film, From Russia with Love, the cavern today sees tourists crossing over 2 acres of 12 inch thick water, on wooden walkways, to take in the occasional art exhibit or marvel at the intricate design on the columns themselves. There is a pleasant little café topside where the eyes can adjust over some tea.

Galata Tower

Address: Galata Kulesi Sokak Istanbul

Admission: 9am to 6pm daily

Telephone: 212 293 8180

Erected as a bastion for the walls of the 14th century colony of Galata, the tower offers a 360º panoramic view of the old town. Today it is a sought-after conference venue, offering fine dining at the resident restaurant and belly dancing displays in its own night club.

Dolmache Palace

Address: Sultanahmet Istanbul

This second palace of the Ottoman Sultans was once the Sultan's harem and is an ostentatious interior of crystal chandeliers, the one adorning the grand hall weighing in at four tons (4,000 kg). On the exterior, the palace has an extensive and beautiful garden, yours for the strolling.

Istanbul Dolphinarium

Address: 2 – 4 Silahtaraða Caddesi, Fulya Istanbul

Admission: 20 TL (adult), 15 TL (child), free for children under 3

Telephone: (212) 581 7878

Kids on holiday in Istanbul will jump at a chance to visit the dolphinarium, its six pools home to a few dolphins and seals, as well as white whales and walruses. Children can swim with the dolphins, visit the toy store and learn many great sea-life facts while they're there. The restaurant or café are great for a snack or lunch break.

Sisli Science Centre

Address: Sisli Belediyesi Bilim Merkezi, Fulya Istanbul

Admission: 5 TL (adult), 4 TL (child)

Telephone: (212) 266 00 46

The fascinating world of science can be explored by children at the Sisli science centre in Istanbul. Interactive programs and animations cover a range of subjects from maths and physics to earthquakes and fire-fighting. Take a ride on the Bouncing Electrons or see the destructive force of a 7.4 magnitude earthquake.

Discovery Sphere Planetarium

Address: 5 Hasköy Caddesi, Hasköy Istanbul

Admission: 5 TL (adult), 3 TL (child) Daily; 10am to 5pm on weekdays, 10am to 7pm on weekends.

Telephone: (212) 369 6600

In a true space odyssey, kids can marvel at the wonders of the universe projected onto the walls of the Discovery Sphere Planetarium. They will be amazed at the night sky as it reveals infinite stars and the fascinating Milky Way. All children's space questions will be answered by the planetarium's friendly on-site specialists or the latest digital animation systems.

International Istanbul Music Festival

Where: Various,Istanbul

When: June 2010 TBA

One of the most prominent events on the city's cultural calendar and one of the foremost musical events in Europe, the International Istanbul Music Festival is a summer extravaganza of opera and ballet, as well as classical and traditional music. Over the years the festival has hosted world-renown classical performers and groups from around the globe, as well as local artists and traditional music groups, from international philharmonic orchestras, distinguished chamber ensembles and soloists to dance and ballet performances and Whirling Dervishes. Concerts are held in various locations, including some of the historical buildings in Istanbul.

Turkish F1 Grand Prix

Where: Istanbul Park,Istanbul

When: June 2010 TBA

One of the newer tracks added to the Formula One Season, Istanbul Park has been described as 'The greatest track ever built', by Bernie Ecclestone, CEO of the Formula One Administration. It is one of only three races that runs anticlockwise (the Brazillian and San Marino Grand Prix being the other two) and commands the respect of all the drivers. The track is located 56 miles (90km) from the city centre.

Contemporary Istanbul

Where: LutfiKýrdar Istanbul Convention and Exhibition Centre,Istanbul

When: 3 - 6 December 2009

Every October artists from all across Turkey converge on the capital to showcase their latest creations in contemporary art. A variety of paintings, sculpture and crafts are displayed for exhibition purposes and also for sale. Admirers from all across Turkey show up for the week to assess, purchase and critique the latest offerings of a fascinating culture.

The Bosphorus Swim

Where: Kanlica,Istanbul

When: July 2010 TBA

This annual event sees over a thousand swimmers navigate the 4.3 miles (7km) of the Bosphorus Straight between Kanlica and Cemil Topuzlu Park, essentially swimming from Asia to Europe. Concurrently, rowers and sailors participate in longer races along the same route. Complementing the event are live brass band performances, water-ski exhibitions and dance performances.

Taksimoda Café

Address: Taxim Hill Hotel, Sýraselviler Caddesi 5, Taksim Istanbul

Food Type: Café

This New York-style café has excellent views of the bustling Taksim Square, as well as a stunning summer terrace to enjoy. While the menu offers everything from Mexican to traditional Turkish cuisine, the café is renown for its fantastic coffee and cake selection. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Reservations recommended.

360 Istanbul

Address: Misir Apartmani K8, 311 Istikal Caddesi, Beyoglu Istanbul

Food Type: Fusion

An aptly named restaurant, 360 is situated on a rooftop terrace and has beautiful views and a sleek concrete and glass design. The menu offers fusion cuisine featuring Turkish, Mediterranean and Oriental ingredients. Signature dishes include the '360 Alternative pizza' and their 'Death by Chocolate' is phenomenal! Open for lunch and dinner Monday to Friday, and dinner only on weekends. Reservations required.

Cezayir

Address: Hayriye Cad. 16, Beyoglu Istanbul

Food Type: Turkish

Cezayir serves Turkish cuisine with an international influence; Indian spices are used in a Turkish samosa, and other menu favourites include the salmon carpaccio and the 'börek' grilled spinach and cheese pastry. With wicker chairs and pale yellow walls, the mood in this restaurant is very calm and relaxed. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Reservations essential.

Asitane

Address: Kariye Camii Sokak 6, Edirnekapi Istanbul

Food Type: Turkish

Set in a 19th century mansion overlooking the Golden Horn, Asitane (one of Istanbul's Ottoman Empire names) serves authentic Ottoman cuisine, featuring Central Asian, Anatolian, Middle Eastern and Balkan influences and 500 year-old recipes. Veal in apple sauce and cinnamon flavoured chicken kebabs are just two of the delicious menu options. Open daily for lunch and dinner, and brunch on Sundays. Reservations recommended.

Çintemani Restaurant

Address: Ritz-Carlton, Askerocagi Cad. 15, Sisli Istanbul

Food Type: International

Çintemani is both chic and laid-back, yet functions with all the efficiency of its Ritz-Carlton host. Its varied menu features cuisine with Mediterranean and Asian tastes, as well as local favourites. Try the pistachio crusted lamb loin with sautéed spinach and pestil sauce and keep space for the rice pudding with homemade ice-cream. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Reservations required.

The House Café (Ortaköy)

Address: Salhane Sokak 1, Ortaköy Istanbul

Food Type: Café

Boasting two terraces on the Ortaköy's waterfront, this trendy restaurant's décor blends beautifully with its seaside location. While the menu features excellent seafood dishes, the pizza with pears, honey and Roquefort is also sublime. Open daily, reservations required.

Körfez

Address: Körfez Cad. No:78 Kanlýca Istanbul

Food Type: Seafood

The Körfez lies nestled in a cove on the Asian side of the Bosphorus Straight, with tables set on a deck right over the water and a view of the bridge. Körfez is often purported to be the best seafood restaurant in Istanbul; start the meal with Turkish vegetable starters or from a selection of seafood appetisers. Fish meals are salted lightly and grilled to perfection. The restaurant provides a ferry for customers coming to dine there from the European side of the straight. Open daily except Mondays. Reservations essential.

Feriye Lokantasi

Address: Çýraðan Cad. 40 Ortaköy Istanbul

Food Type: Local

The Feriye Lokantasi is a multi-purpose venue with its own bar, café, conference hall and two separate seasonal venues for the one restaurant. The best way to enjoy this facility is on the outdoor terrace on a balmy summer evening. The menu, like the venue, is flexible and based on what is seasonal, offering Turkish cuisine cooked in the ottoman tradition. The menu offers delicious meals such as grilled turbot, with saffron and courgette balls, in raspberry puree. Open daily for lunch and dinner, reservations required.

Mikla

Address: Mesrutyiyet Cad. 167, Tepebasi Istanbul

Food Type: Mediterranean

Located on the top two floors of the 18 storey Marmara Pera Hotel, this gourmet restaurant offers a glorious 360º vista of the lights of Old Town. Chef and owner Mehmet Gürs prepares Turkish and Scandinavian meals such as sautéed scallops with vegetable risotto, and ragu beef cheeks with porcini mushroom soup. An absolute favourite is the lamb escargot for mains, followed by a tachio and tahini ice-cream dessert. Reservations essential.

Saf

Address: Club Sporium (Mayadrom Arkasý), Cumhuriyet Cad. 4/8 Akatlar Istanbul

Food Type: Organic

Saf cuisine can be enjoyed at Hayal Kahvesi in Club Sporium Akatlar, perfect for a light meal after a good workout or an afternoon by the pool. The menu offers fresh organic food such as a 'Taco Trio' with Mexican pâté, guacamole, salsa and sour cream. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and supper, reservations recommended.