Istanbul is the largest and the most historical city in Turkey. The name "Istanbul" comes from the Greek phrase "eis ten polin" used by Constantinople's inhabitants, and which meant "in the city". The city is sometimes referred to as the "Soul of Turkey". Istanbul is the only major city that lies on two continents, Asia & Europe.

Here's a top ten of must-see attractions in Istanbul, Turkey:

1. Topkapi Palace. Topkapi Palace, which means "Cannongate Palace",

is the old palace-city of the sultans. Topkapi Palace was home to all the Ottoman sultans for a period of nearly four centuries. This splendid palace is museum now. The Treasury of the Museum of Topkapi Palace is considered one of the most celebrated treasuries in the world.

2. Blue Mosque. It is called "Sultan Ahmet Mosque" which means "Mosque of Sultan Ahmet". It is famous for the beautiful blue tiles and glasswork ornamenting its walls.

3. Dolmabahçe Palace. It is a palace in what is called Turkish Renaissance style built by Abdul Mecid in 1854, which was the main residence of the Sultans until 1918 and is now a museum. The palace is lavishly decorated with luxurious furniture, crystals and carpets.

4. Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya). One of Istanbul's illustrious landmark, the Hagia Sofia was a former church, mosque and now a museum. It is the most important achievement of Byzantine architecture.

5. Istanbul Archaeology Museum. It has one of the world's richest collection of historical artifacts and treasures. It actually consists of three museums: the Museum of Oriental Antiquities, the Archaeological Museum and the Tiled Pavillion.

6. Hagia Eirene. It is one of the earliest Christian churches in Istanbul. It is located in the outer courtyard of Topkapi Palace. Today, it is now a museum that serves mainly as a concert hall for classical music performances and musical festivals.

7. Galata Tower. It was called "Jesus Tower" by the Genoese and "Great Bastion" by the Byzantine. This is one of the city's most magnificent landmarks whose huge, cone-capped form dominates the skyline. It has a modern restaurant and cafe on its upper floors. From there you will behold a stunning view of Istanbul.

8. The Grand Bazaar. It is named "Kapalicarsi", or "covered bazaar". It is made up of streets of various shops sheltered by roofs and domes. Inside the Grand Bazaar you can enjoy shopping and find great bargains in 5,000 shops.

9. Suleymaniye Mosque. It is one of the most marvelous of the imperial mosque complexes in the city. It is built 450 years ago by the architect, Mimar Sinan for Suleyman the Magnificent , the most powerful Ottoman sultan. The interior, dominated by its great dome with minaret towers, is notable for its impressive design.

10. Old City walls of Istanbul. Old Constantinople was surrounded by walls described as land walls and sea walls. These walls were considered to be the largest fortress ever constructed in the Christian era. With their numerous towers, large and small, they are a magnificent sight.