East meets West: Architecture you have to see for yourself

Tbilisi, Georgia 

The traditional cobblestoned Old Town mixes with contemporary architecture in the picturesque capital city of Tbilisi.

On the Old Town side, you can experience Narikala Fortress – a castle in Georgia renowned for its combination of 4th-century Persian and 8th-century Arab fortifications. Don’t miss Abanotubani either. Here you’ll see the unique blue-tile façade of the sulphur baths.

Head across the Peace Bridge and you’ll be surrounded by contemporary buildings that feel worlds away from where you’ve just been. The most prominent of which is the Millennium Hotel skyscraper. Famed for its unique shape, this modern marvel gives you a true taste of Georgia today.

Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul straddles Europe and Asia, and the influences of both continents can be seen in many of the city’s beautiful buildings and landmarks.

Hagia Sophia, built between 532 and 537AD, has been a cathedral, mosque, church and more recently a museum. The architecture of the building reflects the crossover of Byzantine and Ottoman empires, and its striking exterior has inspired the design of many mosques since.

One of the most popular buildings to visit in Istanbul is Topkapi Palace. Constructed during the Ottoman era, this building dates back to the 15th century and has long been a beloved landmark of the city. As you explore it, you can take in stunning views across the Sea of Marmara, Bosphorus and Golden Horn.

Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina 

Sarajevo has developed into an exciting and cosmopolitan destination. The architecture is an intriguing mixture of Ottoman, Yugoslav and Austro-Hungarian influences. Head to the Bascarsija for a taste of a real Ottoman market. Simply pick up a delicious Turkish coffee and set aside an afternoon to explore the winding 15th century side streets.

Head a little further afield and visit the city of Mostar. Here, you’ll find the Stari Most, one of the most famous architectural structures in the Balkans. The 16th century bridge offers beautiful views over the Neretva River and if you’re after an adrenaline rush, this is the perfect location to have a go at bridge diving.

Baku, Azerbaijan 

Formerly part of the Soviet Union, the urbanism and architecture of Baku is heavily influenced by this era. Since gaining its independence in 1991, the city has invested in modernising and developing the city’s infrastructure and architecture.

However, the Walled City of Baku is sprinkled with a variety of cultural influences including Zoroastrian, Sasanian, Arabic, Persian, Shirvani, Ottoman and Russian. All that, along with a clear Azerbaijani presence, creates a rare and vibrant mix of architecture to explore.

The 12th-century Maiden Tower is well worth the climb to the top floor, with rooftop views stretching across the historical centre of the city. From there, visit the 15th-century Shirvanshahs Palace. One of the most impressive historical monuments in the whole of Azerbaijan, you can spend a whole day wandering the sandstone building and exploring the museum.

To get a real feel for this incredible architecture book a flight with flydubai and see these fascinating destinations with your own eyes.