Istanbul part of updated 'grand tour' of Europe

Turkish capital perfectly blends ancient history and modern metropolitan style

The Turkish capital of Istanbul should be part of any 'grand tour' of European adventure holidays, despite not being entirely inside the continent, according to a travel expert.

Robert Reid, a Lonely Planet editor and writer, has said the city is one of the most essential places to visit in Europe.

Istanbul melds together the ancient history that permeates the city's stone pavements with a metropolitan style that is seen in every major European conurbation.

"Once you've touched down you've reached the edge of Europe, where east meets west," Mr Reid wrote. "In Old Istanbul explore the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Aya Sofya, then shop and dine in modern Beyoglu, centre of the city's nightlife."

The original grand tour was taken by many young British men in the 19th century so that they could see the breath-taking sights and have new experiences, but did not extend as far as the Asian border.

One of the destinations visited on the original grand tour were the Alps, which were immortalised by Percy Bysshe Shelley - a grand tour traveller himself - in his poem Mont Blanc.