Dreaming of a quick getaway over the upcoming Eid break? There are a few destinations nearby, only a few hours away from the UAE, which offer everything from grand bazaars to sulfur baths to mountain hikes.

Here’s a shortlist of easy jaunts from the UAE to satisfy your wanderlust and make most of your 3 days off.

The Most Beautiful Religious Monuments in Istanbul

Turkey has an incredible history, home to some of the greatest empires and a strategic location that led to its control of some of the world’s most lucrative trade routes. Its rich heritage has left a number of ancient structures such as mosques, churches, monasteries, and synagogues, reminiscent of bygone eras. Inspired by @aljvd’s jaw-dropping photography and fantastic suggestions, I was seriously blown away. Here’s my guide to visiting a few of these monuments.

Travel Guide to Istanbul

Istanbul is simply breathtaking. It’s a must-visit destination hosting beautiful religious sites, colorful streets, historical bazaars, heavenly cuisine, and an endless number of cats. IMO, it’s not a city you can cover in 1 or 2 or even 3 days. The architecture alone is mind-blowing and can be easily gazed it for hours. In fact, I feel like I barely even scratched the surface. Come and wander in its narrow streets, sip on endless cups of Turkish tea, and discover an Istanbul that’s extraordinarily unique. Here’s my guide to visiting this ancient city.