With a nickname like “City of the World’s Desire," it’s hard not to be intrigued by Istanbul. Situated at the intersection of East and West, the former Constantinople offers a mesmerizing mix of the old and the new. The best way to experience all of its captivating contrasts for yourself? Plan a visit — with a little help from Business Class’s cheap first-class flights to Istanbul and business-class flights to Istanbul.

Over the past 2,500 years, Istanbul's positioning at the crossroads of Europe and Asia has led to the development of a truly inimitable environment in which the vestiges of the city’s ancient past still very much inform its modern-day existence. As you stroll down the bustling streets of Istanbul’s Sultanahmet District, you’ll pass lively bazaars, aromatic spice markets, and moody tea houses — all while taking in the breathtaking beauty of the city’s majestic Islamic architecture in the form of everything from historic mosques to grand waterfront palaces. Some must-see attractions to discover during your time in Istanbul include the Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, the “Blue Mosque,” Basilica Cistern, Gülhane Park, and the Çiçek Pasajı. Looking for a different vantage point on it all? Take in extraordinary panoramic views from the Galata Tower, Camlica Hill, or Maiden’s Tower. A cruise down the Bosphorus Strait, which divides the two continents, is also a highlight of any Istanbul vacation.

Wondering when to visit Istanbul? There’s no right or wrong answer to this question. Rather, every season offers different yet equally delightful allures. Summertime brings with it abundant Mediterranean sunshine, while fall comes with magnificent foliage and spring is the season of tulips in Istanbul. Meanwhile, this enchanting city comes alive in wintertime with lights and decorations. Not to mention that we can’t think of a better place to hunker down and warm up on a cold day than in one of Istanbul's cozy coffee shops.

Speaking of cozy coffee shops, Istanbul boasts a centuries-old cafe culture where locals and visitors alike indulge in a variety of coffees, decadent pastries, and good company. Looking for more than a light snack? Istanbul's culinary scene is a wonderland for adventurous epicureans thanks to everything from savory kebabs and fragrant pide (AKA Turkish pizza) to freshly caught seafood from the Bosphorus. Regarding cuisine, Istanbul offers something for every appetite — from world-class fine dining to a famously diverse street food scene showcasing local specialties like lahmacun, borek, Islak burgers, and balik ekmek. With its posh rooftop bars overlooking the Bosphorus, Istanbul’s nightlife is equally exhilarating.

With a history spanning four empires and as the only city in the world bordering two different continents, the thriving transcontinental metropolis of Istanbul is a unique destination full of history, culture, cuisine, coffee, and much more. The only thing standing between you and everything it has to offer? Getting there. When it comes to answering frequently asked questions like where to find first-class flights to Istanbul and how to find first-class flights to Istanbul, you’re in the right place. Business Class is your source for the best luxury airfare to Istanbul and other top global destinations.

To save up to 60 percent off your first-class flights to Istanbul, visit Business Class today.