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Istanbul is the largest city in the nation of Turkey and and 5th largest city in the entire world. People visit Istanbul every year from all over the world, due to its vibrant outlook and energising mix of Islamic culture and modern culture. Istanbul is an enticing place for many reasons, not the least of which is the amazing food that can be found all throughout the city. With a population of about 13 million people and a history that goes back to the 7th millennium BC, Istanbul is a tourist destination like no other. While there are so many different places for tourists to visit in and around Istanbul, some of the most popular include the Pera Museum, the Sakip Sabanci Museum, the Princes’ Islands, and many of the Turkish baths that are dotted around the city.

A significant and very well known culture has established itself in Turkey around the use of Hamams, the Turkish word for Turkish Bath. No self respecting tourist to Istanbul would miss out on an authentic Turkish bath experience, and there are literally hundreds of baths around the city for tourists to choose from. Some examples of the oldest baths in the city include the Cemberlitas Hamami and the Galatasaray Hamami. A number of hamams are located next to Mosques, such as the Kilic Ali Mosque. Visiting the Mosques themselves is also a popular tourist activity in Istanbul, although non Muslims are not generally allowed inside. Like any modern city, the shopping in Istanbul is also incredible, with a well balanced mixture of modern products and traditional Turkish items for sale all around the city.

Food is central to Istanbul, and there are hundreds of restaurants, cafes, and street stalls where you can experience authentic Turkish cuisine. Along with traditional Turkish eating establishments, there are also many other European and Middle Eastern restaurants in the city, along with numerous wine houses, pubs, and nightclubs in certain areas. Unlike some cities with a strong Islamic population, Istanbul is an incredibly tolerant city and getting hold of alcohol is relatively easy. Some of the most well known traditional Turkish restaurants in Istanbul include the famous seafood restaurant Kumkapi, along with many others that can be found along the shores of the Bosophorus. Istanbul is an amazing place to visit, and there are many famous tourist attractions in Istanbul to experience while you are there.