For decades, Istanbul has been a favourite for holidaymakers, keen to explore this fascinating city which was once the centre of the mighty Ottoman Empire.

The city has plenty to offer culturally and the massive onion-shaped domes of its many mosques beautifully demonstrate the intricacies and wonders of Islamic art.

Although a Muslim nation, Turkey is very secular - politics and religion stay in their respect domains and very seldom do the twain meet.

Indeed, Turkey had gone to great lengths to shows the world that the separation of state and religion is something its holds dear - not least in its tireless bid to enter the European Union.

That is one of the interesting paradoxes about Istanbul - it is most certainly overwhelmingly Muslim, but it can rival any European party capital hands down. Turkey is the only nation to straddle both east and west and this dichotomy makes for an interesting visit.

Quaint traditional markets and bazaars are just yards away from designer boutiques and famous brands foreigners will recognise, providing for fantastic shopping opportunities.

When shopping in local traditional bazaars, be sure to haggle, as market traders can sense foreigners a mile off and if you are not careful, you could be taken for a carpet ride.

The impressive Islamic-inspired architecture is juxtaposed with a very modern, 21st century cityscape.

Istanbul is full of history, spectacular sights, ancient ruins and a blend of various local cultures. But it also has an extremely exciting and vibrant nightlife, making it one of the hottest spots in the Mediterranean.

Being only two hours ahead of GMT, UK travellers can even jump on a cheap bargain flight and be in Istanbul in little under four hours.

The best times to visit are spring and autumn, when the climate is just perfect in Istanbul and on the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts. At this time, it will be cool in central Anatolia, but not excessively so.

If you detest creepy crawlies, it might be a good idea to visit before the middle of June or after August to avoid mosquitoes.

Places that cater to backpackers usually see Anzac Day as the official start of the tourism season, while those who cater to package holidaymakers begin to see business boom in early May. With the sole exception of Istanbul, Turkey does not really have a winter tourism season.

The peak season is from July to the middle of September, when most Turkish residents take their holidays. Most tour operators agree that the best time to visit eastern Turkey is from late June to September.

Many travel agents also advise holidaymakers not to venture east before May or after the middle of October unless they are prepared for snow. Yes, snow.

It is also worth remembering to try to avoid travelling during Kurban Bayrami, Turkey's most popular public holiday.

Turkey is generally safe, so holidaymakers would do well to exercise vigilance at all times because sporadic violence due to domestic and regional tensions does occur.

All things said, Istanbul and Turkey in general is the perfect getaway for tourists keen to immerse themselves in a foreign culture while still wanting the party atmosphere of the popular European clubbing capitals.