Northern Turkey Holidays

A heady mix of eastern and western cultures and traditions, the region of northern Turkey is centred on the magnificent city of Istanbul. Best known for being the continental boundary between Europe and Asia, a frontier delineated by the iconic Bosphorus Strait, here cosmopolitan cities retain age-old customs, modern architecture adjoins classical remains and high-end boutiques stand alongside traditional bazaars. Straddling the European and Asian continents, Istanbul is the focal point of the region and is undoubtedly one of the world’s great cities. Known in antiquity first as Byzantium and then Constantinople, the city spans both sides of the Bosphorus with the historic district of Sultanahmet – which juts out into the strait – a treasure trove of ancient sights. Walk the Hippodrome, explore the underground basilica water cistern and visit Emperor Justinian’s greatest achievement, the monumental Hagia Sophia which was built in 537 AD. Also visit the stunning Topkapi Palace and the cavernous medieval Grand Bazaar. From Istanbul it is possible to travel south to Bursa, which sat at the far western end of the famed Silk Road, or the Gallipoli Peninsula with its thought-provoking First World War cemetery, Anzac Cove and military museum. All of our Turkey holidays and bespoke tailor-made tours to northern Turkey are unique and fully personalised.