2. Istanbul
Why you should go: Straddling two continents on the Bosphorus strait, Istanbul is full of history around every corner — from the grandeur of Topkapi Palace to the stunning domes of the Blue Mosque. Whether you want to experience a 17th century bathhouse at Sultanahmet Hamami or sample döner kebab from the Beyoğlu district, Istanbul never ceases to delight.
Flight time: 5 hours