Turkey's largest city has far more to offer than just breathtaking scenery and a great climate. Situated on the Bosphorus Strait, it is where East meets West in terms of both geography and culture. It's also where modern and traditional Turkey collide. Shop in malls or bazaars, visit galleries or mosques, and spend your evenings in traditional taverns or fashionable nightclubs.This ancient city, one of the oldest in the world, has officially been called Istanbul since 1923, when Atatürk founded the Turkish Republic. First known as Byzantium, and later Constantinople, it served as the capital of Islam for centuries and was at the centre of some of the greatest realms in history: the Roman, Byzantine, Latin and Ottoman empires. It owes its prosperity in part to its strategic location at the point where the Sea of Marmara and the Black Sea meet.To get a sense of Istanbul's diverse history head to the Old City on the Sultanahmet Peninsula. Here you'll find a wealth of architectural gems. If you need to orient yourself, the 14th-century Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) is a great place to start. Plot the historical changes in the city's political and religious landscape as you visit Topkapi Palace (Topkapı Sarayı), the Hippodrome (Hipodrom) and the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque). Don't miss the magnificent Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) either, formerly a cathedral and mosque and now an impressive museum.If you've still got plenty of energy, get ready to haggle at the Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı). Or, if it's peace and quiet you're after, chill out in the underground Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi). Alternatively, cross the Golden Horn via the Galata Bridge to the New City for some retail therapy at one of the many modern shopping centres. Take in the atmosphere of Taksim Square while you're there as the professionals leave the skyscrapers the trendy young things arrive to hit the clubs.It's worth buying an Istanbulkart if you're going to use public transport, especially since it includes the ferry across the Bosphorus to see the Beylerbeyi Palace.A bridge between cultures, Europe's most populous city is also one of its most ancient and most beautiful. As soon as you arrive in Istanbul you'll understand why this fascinating city has prospered for so long.
Istanbul Travel Guide
Where to stay in Istanbul
Sultanahmet
Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Blue Mosque to Hagia Sophia – discover Sultanahmet, a destination also famous for its shopping.
Taksim
Enjoy the popular shops in Taksim. Taksim Square is a worthwhile stop, and you can jump on the metro at Taksim Station or Findikli Station to see more of Istanbul.
Istanbul City Center
Known for its charming cafes and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Istanbul City Center. Check out top attractions like Grand Bazaar and Blue Mosque, and jump on the metro at Aksaray Station or Aksaray Tram Station to see more of the city.
Kadıköy
You might take some time to check out the abundant dining options in Kadıköy. Spend some time visiting top spots like Istanbul Toy Museum, and catch the metro at Bahariye Station or Acibadem Station to see more of the area.
Fatih
Enjoy the popular shops in Fatih. Grand Bazaar is a worthwhile stop, and you can jump on the metro at Aksaray Station or Yusufpasa Station to see more of Istanbul.
Beşiktaş
Spend some time visiting places like Zorlu Performing Arts Center while getting to know Beşiktaş, and be sure to check out the abundant dining options. You can hop aboard the metro at Nispetiye Station or Etiler Station to see more of the area.
Reviewed on 2 May 2024
Reviewed on 10 May 2024
Reviewed on 11 May 2024
Reviewed on 5 May 2024
Reviewed on 12 Nov. 2023
Reviewed on 2 May 2024
Popular places to visit
Taksim Square
You can learn about the local history of Istanbul during your trip to a well-known site such as Taksim Square. Stroll along the area's seaside or experience its fascinating museums.
Blue Mosque
The bright blue ceramic tiles that line the interior of this great traditional mosque are a sight to behold.
Hagia Sophia
Throughout its various incarnations as a church, an Orthodox cathedral, a mosque, and a museum, this magnificent structure has dominated Istanbul's skyline.
Grand Bazaar
Stock up on artisanal curios as you explore thousands of shops in Istanbul's enormous covered market, one of the largest and oldest in the world.
Galata Tower
Marvel at Istanbul's natural and architectural beauty from this medieval watchtower.
Topkapi Palace
Admire a vast array of artefacts as you explore this magnificent palace in the Old City, home to the Ottoman sultans for around 400 years.
Activities
Istanbul Historical Tour with Guide, Lunch and Transfers
Bosphorus Dinner & Show Cruise (All Inclusive)
Monuments of Ottoman Empire Tour - Skip the Line Tickets
Bosphorus Sunset Yacht Cruise with Snacks and Live Guide
2-Day Tour of Cappadocia, with Flights & Accommodation
Istanbul Turkish Bath in Ottoman Style at Hammam with Drinks
Reviews of Istanbul
4/5 - Good
It’s a excellent city to visit
5/5 - Excellent
Very nice city l will be coming back
5/5 - Excellent
Love Istanbul... been to over 40 countries and this is a favourite!
5/5 - Excellent
Good food, friendly locals,
5/5 - Excellent
This is excellent place to visit with so much variety and diversity in people and the best of all, the food. It is an ideal place for foodies.
4/5 - Good
Beautiful city but traffic
Other places like Istanbul
- Blue Mosque
- Hagia Sophia
- Grand Bazaar
- Galata Tower
- Topkapi Palace
- Bosphorus Bridge
- Sultanahmet Square
- Dolmabahçe Palace
- Ataturk Olympic Stadium
- Süleymaniye Mosque
- Tüyap Fair Convention and Congress Center
- Basilica Cistern
- Bahçeşehir Gölet Park
- Florya Beach
- Viaport Outlet Shopping
- Sedef Island
- Medicana International Istanbul Hospital
- Istinye Park
- Yorukali Beach