Inside A guide to Turkey’s most extraordinary destinations

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Istanbul 8 26 20 Antalya 14

30 Golden Book

Ortakoy ,

8 Visit Turkey

Istanbul

Turkey’s most visited city is home to its most treasured historic monuments and the hottest new luxury attractions

stanbul is a legendary city, one whose name conjures up images of bustling and scenes Istraight out of 1001 Arabian Nights; but there’s much more to the city today than spices and incense. Istanbul, formerly , and Byzantium long before that, was the seat of power for the consecutive Roman and Ottoman Empires – a place long accus- tomed to providing culture, comfort and entertainment for the local populace and visiting dignitaries. Today the city straddles two continents – Europe and Asia – a geographical idiosyncrasy that helpfully splits it into two distinct parts, divided in half by the Bosphorus Strait. You can find some of the country’s most iconic historical attractions and modern nightspots on the European side, while some of the city’s top residential districts are located on the Asian half of the waterway, which is connected by the mighty Galata Bridge. Istan- bul is also home to a stunning collection of traditional and contemporary restaurants, winning international attention from food critics worldwide. From the ancient Mosque, Topkapi and the resplendent Blue Mosque, to the mod- ern luxury hotels that line the banks of the Bosphorus, the city is bursting at the seams with attractions to lure visitors from all corners of the globe. .

9 Tastes of Turkey

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stanbul’s gourmet scene has exploded 1 Zuma 2 Tugra I over the last few years, as more and German chef Rainer Becker’s hugely For what might well be the best Turkish more chefs and restaurateurs realised the successful Zuma was an instant hit with cuisine in town, head to Tugra Restaurant city’s huge potential as the world’s next locals and visitors alike when it opened in and Lounge at the elegant Kempinski major tourism hotspot. Big names in the 2008, and it remains one of the hottest Ciragan Palace and ask for a table on the global gourmet scene like Rainer Becker’s restaurants on Istanbul’s buzzing restau- terrace. The views of the Bosphorus are Zuma concept have found new homes in rant scene. The menu offers a vast selec- among the most romantic in the city, and Istanbul, inspiring others to follow in their tion of modern Japanese concoctions and the restaurant’s team of Turkish chefs footsteps and encouraging chefs to bring a beverage menu to match. At lunchtime prepare mouthwatering dishes from the new ideas to the table. From traditional it’s full of businessmen in suits, and at night “modern classic” menu, which features Turkish cuisine to contemporary Asian it’s packed with trendy locals and hungry a sumptuous collection of Turkish and fusion, there’s something for everyone. tourists eager to be a part of the action. Ottoman cuisine. With so much to choose from, it’s hard to Tel: +90 212 236 2296 Tel: +90 212 236 7333 pick a favourite. www.zumarestaurant.com www.kempinski.com

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3 Dragon at Reina 4 Cipriani Istanbul 5 Safran Restaurant The city’s most popular open-air club The Istanbul branch of super-trendy For some of the finest traditional Turkish is also home to one of its favourite Cipriani restaurant has quickly established and Ottoman cuisine in town, look no fur- restaurants, which occupies a perfect itself as a favourite among the city’s upper ther than Safran Restaurant and Terrace spot on the edge of the Bosphorus, on the crust. Serving a mixture of classic dishes at the Ceylan InterContinental Istanbul. European side of the river. Enjoy the finest from the company’s original Harry’s Bar in Enjoy an authentic Turkish experience in Chinese cuisine in town, either inside the , and contemporary fusion dishes sophisticated surroundings, with tradi- stylish venue or al fresco under the star-lit reflecting traditional Turkish cuisine, the tional live Turkish music and one of the Turkish sky during the summer months. restaurant is known as a hangout for the most panoramic outdoor terraces in town, As well as the fabulous food, you’ll enjoy city’s social elite. Sit inside among exqui- where you can look down on the seeing and being seen by the celebrities site Italian design, or out on the terrace to and of countless dotted and high-flyers at trendy Reina after. soak up the atmosphere. all over the city. Tel: +90 212 259 5919 Tel: +90 212 317 7787 Tel: +90 212 368 44 44 www.reina.com.tr www.cipriani.com istanbul.intercontinental.com.tr

11 Istanbul heritage

Istanbul’s historic buildings are centuries-old reminders of distant empires and benevolent rulers who created some of the world’s most iconic structures

s the former seat of the Ottoman 1 Blue Mosque 2 Topkapi Palace Aand the Roman empires, Istanbul The , or the Blue For more than 400 years, the sprawling has welcomed some of history’s greatest Mosque, is one of Istanbul’s architec- Topkapi Palace was the home of the rulers architects and designers, who have created tural masterpieces. Built in the early 17th of the , as well as the some of Turkey’s most iconic buildings century when Istanbul was the heart of setting for all of Istanbul’s official events and landmarks. From the glorious domes the Ottoman Empire, the Blue Mosque and ceremonies. The palace was also of the Blue Mosque to the soaring spires is considered to be one of the last great the centre of the and still of the Hagia Sophia, the city’s religious mosques built during the classical period, houses some of ’s most important monuments are some of the most dazzling with six towering minarets and eight relics. Within its massive walls, visitors in the world. Other sites like the magnificent smaller domes below the vast main today can walk the cool corridors of the Topkapi Palace and the winding alleyways domed roof. It remains one of the city’s palace and visit some of the Ottoman of the Grand are well-preserved most important places of worship, but it empire’s most treasured relics, standing windows into times gone by. is also open to visitors, who marvel at the where sultans once directed the political blue tiles that decorate its interior. and religious life of the empire. www.bluemosque.co www.topkapipalace.com

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3 Hagia Sophia 4 The Bosphorus 5 Grand bazaar The Hagia Sophia Mosque stood as a Every great city of old is built around a Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar has been the symbol of the might and talent of the suc- water source, and Istanbul is no different. heart of the city’s trade and commerce cessive empires that ruled over the city. It The mighty Bosphorus Strait, which since the 15th century, when it was the started out as a cathedral when Istanbul carves the city in two and separates central market for traders who came from was still called Constantinople, the seat the continents of Asia and Europe, all over the Ottoman Empire. Today, it is a of power of the . When connecting the Black Sea and the Sea must-see on any itinerary. The maze-like the city fell to Ottoman invaders in 1453, of Marmara, has been a vital trade route streets and alleyways are home to more the cathedral was turned into a mosque, since the city was first settled. Today, than 5,000 stalls selling arts and crafts, and remained a place of worship until the boats that run up and down the wa- rich fabrics and silks, antique jewellery and it was turned into a museum in 1935. terway carry tourists on cruises that give other souvenirs. There is no better way to The stunning building remains one of them the chance to see both sides of immerse yourself in the Turkey of old than the best-preserved pieces of Byzantium the city from a different angle, from the by wandering through the vast covered architecture in the world. that line the banks of the river to bazaar and talking to the traders. www.hagiasophia.com the grand mosques in the distance. www.grandbazaaristanbul.org

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Antalya

Antalya is Turkey’s own version of the French Riviera, full of unique Mediterranean spirit and coastal charm

trategically located on the , Antalya is sometimes called the . SLike the French equivalent, Antalya and the surrounding coastal villages are home to an array of mouth-watering restaurants serving fresh fish and seafood, with rows of yachts and sailboats jostling for space in busy marinas or moored in idyllic bays, and a laid-back Mediterranean atmosphere that seduces visi- tors into staying a little bit longer than planned. The city boasts a rich ancient heritage with Greek, Roman and most recently Turkish influences. Once a trading hub, it is now best known for its beautiful beaches, natural waterfalls, and luxury resorts, as well as its proximity to more than its fair share of historic sites, from the ancient cities of Perga and Aspendos to the Antalya Archaeological Museum and its collection of marble statues. Antalya’s mild climate makes it one of Turkey’s lead- ing agricultural centres, with fragrant orange groves flourishing beneath centuries-old aqueducts, and mouth-watering strawberries bursting with flavour sold at roadside stands.

15 Contemporary Antalya

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hether you prefer a beach hotel 1 Hillside Su Hotel 2 AlP Pasa Boutique Hotel Wclose to the bustling, ancient city, This chic, all-white member of Design During the renovations of the authentic atmospheric lodgings in the historic Old Hotels offers simple elegance and a fresh, Konak houses that comprise the Alp Pasa Town, or a luxury all-inclusive resort along clean environment to create a soothing, Hotel, intricate ceilings and ornamental Lara Beach, Antalya has a collection of spiritual ambiance. With a private beach fireplaces, hand-carved doors and chests wonderful hotels to choose from. The best and soothing underwater music in the were found. Built in the Ottoman style thing about Antalya is that it is full of at- swimming pool, this award-winning in the historic Kaleici district for wealthy tractions, so wherever you choose to stay, design hotel offers an array of sports op- merchants, the buildings maintain many you’ll be in close proximity to some of the tions to promote health and fitness of these architectural treasures to evoke region’s top cultural spots, historic sites as well as relaxation. their illustrious past. and the buzz of downtown Antalya. Tel: +90 242 249 0700 Tel: +90 242 247 5676 www.hillsidesu.com www.alppasa.com

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3 Mardan Palace 4 WOW Kremlin Palace 5 Divan Antalya Located on the shores of the famous Known for its quirky themed hotels, Perched on a high bluff overlooking the Lara Beach near to Antalya, guests enjoy Turkish company World of Wonders has Mediterranean, the Gulf of Antalya and spectacular service, a private amphi- recreated Russia’s Kremlin Palace along the Toros Mountains, with its own private theatre, botanical gardens, a variety of Lara Beach. The all-inclusive, family beach, the Divan Antalya is in a world of its sports, and a fleet of luxury automobiles, friendly hotel serves up a healthy dose own. Located within walking distance of not to mention spa therapies from of fun, activities and entertainment fit the Old City and with a full array of meet- around the world. Attention to detail for a czar, so there is no need to leave the ing and business services and a relaxing ensures the ultimate in luxury at this property, unless you give in to the lure of Turkish bath, the stunning contemporary award-winning hotel. exploring the local history. hotel offers the best of both worlds. Tel: +90 242 310 4100 Tel: +90 242 310 82 12 Tel: +90 242 248 68 00 www.mardanpalace.com www.wowhotels.com www.divan.com.tr

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he streets of Antalya and its 1 Kaleici 2 Perga Tsurrounding towns and villages Enter the original Old Town through the With almost all of the magnificent are littered with historic monuments triumphal arch of Hadrian’s Gate and you structures of this once-wealthy city still and relics of the empires of old. From will be transported to an ancient seafaring standing, including the theatre, stadium, ancient theatres and trading centres to city. From here, meander through the agora, baths, and columned the cobbled streets of the Old Town, you ancient winding streets, passing original streets lined with illustrious homes, visi- can scarcely walk 100 yards without segments of the city walls and Clock tors can glimpse a unique insight into daily bumping into buildings of historical Tower, as well as the symbol of Antalya, life during ancient times. The innovative significance. If you don’t have the the Yivli (Fluted Minaret) on water, drainage and cooling systems for luxury of time on your side, there are five your way to the harbour. Take a water the market areas, as well as the homes of must-visit sites that should feature on tour along the coast to view the rugged the wealthy, are impressive even today. every itinerary. coastline and enjoy a cay (tea) from one of Although the name is Turkish, the city’s the many cafés that offer incredible views origins were Greek with Roman and of the sunset. Christian influences.

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3 Aspendos 4 Termessos 5 Archaeological Museum Of all the remaining buildings of this city, Once a flourishing trade, agricultural and Even if you don’t see all of the impor- which dates back to 12th century BC, the equine centre coveted by both the Greeks tant historic sights around Antalya, most spectacular is the Roman theatre, and Romans, even Alexander the Great be sure to visit the Archaeological one of the best preserved in the world. could not conquer Termessos because Museum, where you can view a unique Although gladiators fighting wild beasts of its protective geography. Located collection of Roman marble sculptures are no longer part of the programme, this in the rugged hills above the Koprucay dating from the second century AD, 2,000 year old theatre is once again River, the baths, stadium, aqueducts, many uncovered in nearby Perga. Also used as a performance space, with two necropolis and other buildings are still only on display are relics of St. Nicholas, who spectacular shows staged here each partly excavated. Scattered benches and was originally from this area, as well summer. Once used as a hostel for trading signposts along a rugged path are the only as Byzantine church silver and Bronze caravans, it has a seating capacity of concessions made for visitors who want Age burial silver. This is considered one 8,000 on the original stone benches, and to see this fascinating site, making it a of the most outstanding of Turkey’s perfect acoustics. rewarding trek for the hardy. world-renowned museums.

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Bodrum

The gateway to the sublime Aegean Coast, Bodrum is a town with multiple personalities, both relaxed and charged with energy

crazy mixture of sun, sea and history, Bodrum is one of the most popular holiday destina- A tions along the Aegean Coast. With brilliant turquoise waters and vibrant blossoms, the area comes alive each year as the visitors and locals mingle with the same perfect harmony as the sea and the sky. The city is also the starting point for cruises around the Aegean on traditional Turkish gulets – elegant wooden sailing vessels equipped with comfortable guest rooms and experienced crews, which take visitors on multi-day sailings of the timeless coast, with vessels and prices to suit all budgets. Bodrum is also famed for its nightlife, which rivals Istanbul for the number of nightclubs and upscale res- taurants available to hungry visitors. For those who like their holidays with less neon, the cultural attractions around the city make interesting excursions, and a number of museums and galleries showcase the history of the area. Whether you come for relaxation or adventure, you will find it here.

21 Sun, sea and sand in Bodrum

ven without the significant history 2 Castle of Saint Peter 4 Museum of Underwater Eof the region and some well-pre- The most prominent landmark of Bodrum, Archaeology served and restored antiquities, Bodrum whether you arrive by land or sea, is the The way the exhibitions are creatively would still be a must-visit part of Turkey. Castle of Saint Peter. It was built by the displayed makes this one of the most Wherever you can view the sea, look west Knights of St. John using many of the interesting museums you will ever to see magnificent sunsets as you savour ruins from the Tomb of King Mausolus visit, bringing to life the world of ancient the intrigue and peace – and enjoy all the (now called The Mausoleum), which was mariners who lost their lives in shipwrecks other sites and activities offered here. destroyed by an earthquake. A prominent along the coast. Relics from a Fatimid- fortress in its heyday, it was a target of Byzantine ship thought to have sunk in AD a French warship during the First World 1025 are on display, as well as a life-size War. Today the Castle houses an impres- replica of a ship that sank off the nearby sive array of museums. Greek island of Kas in the 14th century BC.

1 Beaches 3 Cruising 5 Scuba Diving A selection of glorious beaches ranging The turquoise water of the Aegean Coast With millennia of shipwrecks, reefs, an- from sandy to rocky dot the shores of the is the main lure of Bodrum. Even dedi- cient walls, caverns and tunnels, the wa- stunning Bodrum peninsula. From the cated landlubbers will enjoy a few hours ters off the shores of Bodrum are a diver’s sandy, beach, the Greek island or a full day on one of the tour boats that paradise. During diving season, which of is clearly visible across the water. line the busy harbour. If you want a truly runs from April to November, you’ll see Beach, on a natural shallow bay, is relaxing adventure, try cruising the rugged octopus, stingrays, groupers, seahorses, perfect for families, while the winds also coastline for several days by arranging for sponges, barracuda and maybe even make it perfect for wind surfing and other a cabin on a gulet, a traditional wooden dolphins and turtles. Among the most water sports. Bodrum beach is awash Turkish sailing vessel. Gather together a popular diving sites are Kurt Burun, Buyuk with sunbathers during the day, and the group of friends and set off on a tailor- Reef (Big Reef) and Delikli Magara, where tables of nearby restaurants at night. made tour of the nearby islands, stopping experienced divers can swim through the Whichever one you chose, you’ll have off at secluded beaches and dropping hole-pipe in the ceiling of a cave. Be sure found paradise. anchor to snorkel in the clear waters. to take a camera!

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Bodrum in style

he sea and the sun make every vist 2 Rixos Premium Bodrum 4 Macakizi Hotel T a in Bodrum spectacular. However, Situated among the pine trees in Zeytin- A luxury boutique hotel overlooking the there are some outstanding hotels likahve Cove on the Bodrum peninsula, the turquoise waters of the Aegean, the Ma- that enhance the natural beauty, with Rixos offers ultimate luxury surrounded cakizi ‘s original concept was to provide a superior service and unique offerings by unspoiled nature. Maintaining the natural, inspiring retreat for writers, paint- that make your visit even more magi- ambiance of a B & B, it offers a full menu ers, intellectuals and other creatives along cal. Whether you prefer to spend your of activities for children and adults – both a private beach. The serenity has evolved holidays laying by the pool, relaxing with those who want action and those who and flourished, with lush gardens vibrant family or gazing out at the azure waters don’t. Villas as well as rooms are available, with hot pink bougainvillea and such and the boats bobbing on the Aegean but whichever you select, be sure to take elegant touches as remote-controlled Sea, there is something to suit all tastes advantage of the Turkish . curtains and Aqua Di Parma amenities. in Bodrum. Tel: +90 252 337 1122 Tel: +90 252 3776272 www.rixos.com www.macakizi.com

1 Kempinski Hotel 3 Casa Dell’Arte Luxury 5 THE Divan Bodrum Hotel Barbaros Bay Family Resort Named the“Most Excellent Charming One of the most beautiful hotels along the Art is an integral part of this Bodrum expe- hotel in Europe and the Mediterranean” by Aegean Sea, the Kempinski Barbaros Bay rience. Every room features original works Conde Nast, this small hotel incorporates offers the serenity of a secluded private by established and emerging artists who the charm of Turkish authenticity with beach lapped by crystal clear blue water may also be in residence during your stay, luxury accommodation and amenities. and a Six Senses Spa for total relaxation. leading workshops for creative guests. With a private beach, inviting pool and But for those on the move, try Nordic Vintage automobiles and a private yacht facilities for business meetings or special walking, mountain biking, and an array of are also available to guests who want to celebrations, you will feel the local ambi- water sports. venture beyond the beach and spa. ance in an authentic, luxurious setting. Tel: +90 252 3110303 Tel: +90 252 367 1848 Tel: +90 252 377 56 01 www.kempinski.com www.casadellartebodrum.com www.divan.com.tr

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Bursa

For a refreshing change of scenery, the thermal waters and medical retreats in Bursa are a delight for the senses

nown to Turks as ‘Yesil Bursa’ or ‘Green Bursa’, this landlocked city is an oasis of Ktranquil parks surrounded by rich farmland, lending the town its name. Long celebrated for its mineral springs and therapeutic thermal baths, Bur- sa is also a dynamic commercial centre, sometimes referred to as the Detroit of Istanbul. Once part of the Silk Road, it now specialises in automobiles, yachts, food and textiles, but it’s also a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Turkey. Bursa has been known for its restorative thermal waters for centuries, making it one of the first destinations for medical tourism. An estimated 3,000 thermal baths offer today’s visitor to Bursa ample opportunity to sample their healing proper- ties. The multitudinous choices include the New Spa, which was built in 1522 and recently restored. Skiing at nearby Mount Uludag tempts many visi- tors in the winter months, and foodies will already know that Bursa is the home of many of Turkey’s most iconic dishes.

27 Storytelling in Bursa

s the first Ottoman capital the 3 Clock Tower of Tophane 6 Pithia Thermal Spa A city of Bursa is rich in religious Situated on a hilltop, the clock tower is the One of the best things about staying monuments, mosques and tombs. The centrepiece of Tophane, the most ancient in the new, centrally-located five-star result is that the city is chock full of part of the city, which is surrounded by the Marigold Hotel is the friendly, helpful important historical sites, but geography remains of the Byzantine walls dating back staff. However, its Pithia Thermal Spa is has also blessed it with some of the most to the first century BC. Enjoy a glass of cay, also one of the best in the area. With the magnificent scenery in Turkey. and admire the view from the gardens at thermal waters at a constant 46° C and the tower’s base. The Gate of Sultanate an assortment of traditional and unique is one of the five gates of Bursa Castle, a therapies on offer, you will feel your body short stroll from the tower. revert to its natural rhythmic balance.

1 Yesil Turbe 4 (Grand Mosque) The sight of the (circa Bursa has more mosques than any other 1421 AD) as you enter through a pair city in Turkey, the grandest of which is the of intricately carved wooden doors is Ulu Cami. Completed in 1399 with 20 dazzling. The depth of the colour and minarets, 20 equal compartments and a detail of the green tiles that ornament striking three-tiered beneath the the interior as well as the Sarcophagus central , it fulfilled Yildirim Bayezid’s of Sultan Mehmet I are breathtaking. promise to build 20 mosques. After dam- Built on a hill among tall cypress trees, it age from earthquakes and fires it has been is an unmissable landmark. exquisitely restored to its original glory.

2 (Silk Market) 5 Uludag National Park Bursa has more Originally built to generate income for Rising above the city, Mount Uludag is the Sultan in 1491, the Koza Han is still a one of Turkey’s most desirable ski areas in mosques than bustling shopping centre. The upper level winter, and during the other months offers any other city houses the Ipek Han, which was estab- a breathtaking view of the surrounding lished to sell the fine silks produced from area. Soar above juniper and aspen trees in Turkey, the the cocoons of Turkish silk worms. Bursa and hyacinths and crocus-covered slopes silk is still heralded for its high quality and from the cable car that transports you to grandest of which brilliant dyes, with each piece proudly a place the Bithynians believed to be the is the Ulu Cami displaying the name of the city. home of the gods.

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29 Zuma Hillside Su Hotel Macakizi Hotel Tel: +90 212 236 2296 Tel: +90 2422490700 Tel: +90 252 3776272 www.zumarestaurant.com www.hillsidesu.com www.macakizi.com

Ciragan Palace - Tugra AlP Pasa Boutique Hotel Rixos Premium Bodrum Tel: +90 212 236 7333 Tel: +90 242 247 5676 Tel: +90 252 337 1122 www.kempinski.com www.alppasa.com www.rixos.com

Dragon Restaurant at Reina Mardan Palace Casa Dell’Arte Tel: +90 212 259 5919 Tel: +90 242 310 4100 Tel: +90 252 367 1848 www.reina.com.tr www.mardanpalace.com www.casadellartebodrum.com

Cipriani Istanbul WOW Kremlin Palace Divan Bodrum Hotel Tel: +90 212 317 7787 Tel: +90 242 310 8212 Tel: +90 252 377 5601 www.cipriani.com www.wowhotels.com www.divan.com.tr

Safran Restaurant Divan Antalya Kempinski Barbaros Bay Tel: +90 212 368 44 44 Tel: +90 242 248 6800 Tel: +90 252 311 0303 www.istanbul.intercontinental.com.tr www.divan.com.tr www.kempinski.com

Kanyon Mall TerraCity Tel: +90 212 317 5300 Tel: +90 242 318 1818 Marigold Hotel Tel: +90 224 444 1626 www.kanyon.com.tr www.terracity.com.tr www.marigold.com.tr Istinye Park Stella’s Manzara Almira Hotel Tel: +90 212 345 5555 Tel: +90 242 316 3596 Tel: +90 224 250 2020 www.istinyepark.com www.stellasmanzara.com www.almira.com.tr

Akmerkez Mall Fishbone Restaurant Bursa Divan Tel: +90 212 282 11 28 Tel: +90 242 710 2000 Tel: +90 224 265 1000 www.akmerkez.com.tr www.rixos.com www.divan.com.tr

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