The Burnt Column

Standing tall in central Istanbul it is easy to mistake the Column of Constantine (also known as the Burnt Column) for a simple brick obelisk, but it once held an impressive statue of Constantine as the god Apollo.  Its name and appearance come from a fire it survived in 1779 which destroyed the rest of the neighborhood while only scorching the column.  Constructed in 330AD, it is still rather well intact (aside from the loss of its focal point).  Stop and see the Column of Constantine on your tour of Istanbul by car rental.

Hagia Sophia

Plan a trip by 7 seater car rental in Istanbul to the famous Hagia Sophia.  Called the museum of Holy Wisdom, the building was once an Orthodox patriarchal basilica, then later a mosque.  An impressive and iconic image along the Istanbul skyline, the Hagia Sophia is instantly recognizable for its distinctive dome and is considered a perfect representation of Byzantine architecture.  

Though its numerous "changes in management" over the centuries have seen the Hagia Sophia redecorated, renovated, and its priceless historic and religious art wiped clean or covered, efforts have been made to bring the light of day once again to its hidden wonders.  Carpets have been removed to reveal decorative marble floors centuries covered, and mosaics once covered in plaster are again on display thanks to the labors of expert restorers.

Galata Tower

To get the best view available of the city of Istanbul plan a stop at the Galata Tower during your tour of the city by car rental with seven seats.  An impressive medieval stone tower inside and out, the top of the tower features a fantastic restaurant and cafe as well as a nightclub.