Istanbul Photo Gallery
Tours, hotels and attractions in Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul
Istanbul is located in the Marmara Sea region of Turkey and is unique in that it spans two continents - Europe and Asia. The city stands on the shores of the Bosphorus, which connects the Marmara Sea and the Black Sea, and is close to major regional cities such as Bursa, Kocaeli and Tekirdag. It is an important transport hub with busy sea routes, several bridges across the strait and major road and rail arteries.
The history of Istanbul spans thousands of years: it was Byzantium, then Constantinople, and later the Ottoman capital - a center of global politics, trade and culture. The legacy of these eras is preserved in the architecture, museums and the urban landscape. Thanks to its rich history and significant role in world culture, Istanbul is among the most visited cities in the world.
Modern Istanbul is a metropolis with a population of over 15 million, extensive infrastructure and a wide range of services for travelers - from international conference centers and shopping malls to cozy historic neighborhoods. The city moves at a fast pace, offering business opportunities, lively nightlife and a vibrant cultural scene.
For tourists, Istanbul offers many attractions: historical and religious tourism, walks and cruises on the Bosphorus, culinary routes, shopping in bazaars and malls, as well as tours of art galleries and museums. Surrounding natural areas and coastal walks also make the city attractive for a relaxed holiday.
Istanbul has a temperate maritime climate with mild winters and warm summers - the best times to visit are spring and autumn, when the weather is comfortable for walks and excursions. Two major airports serve arriving tourists - Istanbul Airport on the European side and Sabiha Gokcen Airport on the Asian side.
The main districts of interest to tourists are the historical center with its monuments and museums, Beyoglu with shops and art spaces, Taksim as a transport hub, and the Asian side with lively waterfronts and the Kadikoy neighborhood. These parts of the city offer different perspectives on life in the metropolis and are convenient for planning routes.
Fascinating places for excursions and travel
Istanbul - the Bosphorus, Hagia Sophia, old bazaars and fragrant Turkish cuisine.
Istanbul - Hagia Sophia and cultural treasures
Hagia Sophia is one of Istanbul's symbols and a key landmark for getting to know the city, but beyond it there are many other outstanding monuments: Dolmabahce Palace, Suleymaniye Mosque, the Archaeology Museum and modern venues such as the Museum of Modern Art. The historic neighborhoods of Fener and Balat preserve the atmosphere of the Ottoman and Byzantine past, and a walk through them reveals unexpected facades, old churches and colorful houses.
The Princes' Islands are a way to escape the city's bustle - walking and cycling routes, coastal views and the absence of car traffic make them popular for day trips. For lovers of live culture and the arts, Istanbul regularly hosts festivals, exhibitions and international events, including the Istanbul Biennial and open-air music programs.
The Grand Bazaar and numerous specialized markets attract shopping fans: here you can find carpets, textiles, leather goods and souvenirs. For fans of baths and wellness, traditional Turkish baths - hammams - are available, many of which operate in historic buildings, making a visit both relaxing and a cultural experience.
Istanbul's local cuisine features a variety of seafood, meze, sweets and street food that reflect a blend of regional traditions. The best seasons for outdoor activities are late spring and early autumn, when you can comfortably combine city walks and sea excursions.
City overview – facts & data for travelers
Major international airports – full list
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