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Places to Go in Istanbul in Winter

Beylerbeyi Palace, situated on the Asian shore of the Bosphorus in Istanbul, is a splendid example of Ottoman imperial architecture. Constructed between 1861 and 1865 under Sultan Abdülaziz, the palace served as a summer residence and a guesthouse for visiting dignitaries. Its design blends European neoclassical and baroque styles with traditional Ottoman elements, creating a lavish and unique aesthetic.The palace's interiors are richly adorned with chandeliers, silk carpets, and ornate furniture, reflecting the opulence of the Ottoman era. The state rooms, including the grand reception hall and the sultan's private quarters, showcase intricate craftsmanship and luxurious decor. Surrounding the palace are beautifully landscaped gardens and terraced grounds that offer stunning views of the Bosphorus.Beylerbeyi Palace stands as a significant cultural and historical monument, providing insight into the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire and its architectural prowess. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world.

The tower has nine stories and is 66.90 m or 219 ft high and was the city’s tallest structure when it was built. Located close to the main junction of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn, it is the ideal place to see Istanbul’s peninsula and the surroundings from a different perspective. Plan your trip to Turkey and make sure to include a visit to this iconic tower for a unique view of Istanbul's landscape.Originally named the Tower of Christ, Galata Kulesi has so much to offer to its tourists. With scintillating vistas, narrow cobbled streets filled with cafes, restaurants and small art galleries, the area around Galata is zestful all day long.Entertain yourself with a nightclub on the upper floors of the tower which host a Turkish show. Also relish the scenic Golden Horn, visit highlights like the Eyup Sultan Mosque and enjoy a traditional Turkish coffee with mouth-watering baklava at the hilltop Pierre Loti Café.

Enter Istanbul's top archaeological museum complex, which is tucked away next to Topkapi Palace. Here, you can discover the wonders of the Museum of the Ancient Orient, which has artefacts from all around the Ottoman Empire. Some of the highlights are fascinating panels of glazed brick from ancient Babylon and a Hittite relief from the eighth century BC. Through the courtyard, you can reach the Archaeology Museum, which is currently being renovated. Here, you can spot classical statues and sarcophagi ( a coffin to bury leaders), besides information about Istanbul's long and interesting history. After discovering the Archaeology Museum, you can explore the magnificent Tiled Pavilion. This was built in 1472 and features a collection of exquisite Seljuk, Anatolian, and Ottoman tiles and pottery. It is embellished with marble columns and lets you admire the vivid colours of İznik tiles, which encapsulate the spirit of a bygone age.Also checkout: Istanbul Holiday Package