Istanbul is one of the 'best cities to get lost in'

People planning to take a solo holiday to Turkey could visit the second-city and just explore, as it is one of the most fantastic cities in the world to simply find your own way and "get lost".

That is the opinion of Rose Mulready, an author for guide book company Lonely Planet, who reserved special praise for the Turkish city when outlining the best cities in the world "to get lost in" on the travel firm's website.

Ms Mulready notes that once you start wandering around and following your nose, a more authentic - and less touristy - city presents itself.

"There are (at least) two great things about getting out of the tourist centre in Istanbul. One - the hotels and hard-sell rug merchants fall away, replaced by local tea shops, parks and houses," she said.

"Two - the city's rollercoaster hills reward you with Bosphorus views and toned-up legs. Get lost every day and see your fitness soar."

The Lonely Planet author is a specialist in all things Turkey, having written the BBC's guide to the European-Asian country.