Overview

Istanbul is the largest metropolis and the most important seaport in Turkey's heart. It served as the imperial seat of both Byzantine and Ottoman governments. It has long been and continues to be a central global hub.
The metropolis straddles the two continents, embracing both Asia and Europe. There are 14.1 million people in the city, making it Europe's most populous urban agglomeration, the Middle East's most populous and sixth-largest city proper on Earth.
Istanbul is the administrative center, which encompasses an area of 5,343 sq. km. Istanbul can be considered a cross-continental city on the Marmara Sea and the Black Sea.
Istanbul, known as Byzantium, was established just on the Sarayburnu peninsula in 660 BC and grew to be one of the most important towns in history. Over a quarter of Turkey's GDP is generated in this region, which is home to many of the country's largest corporations and media organizations.
Istanbul is a unique city with ancient and modern elements and its Mediterranean-Italian blend of cultures. It is one of the most enjoyable cities to visit and explore.

It's always a good idea to visit Istanbul as it's one of the world's most diverse, beautiful, and exciting places. It's everything here in Istanbul. Over 2,500 years of recorded history, art, and tradition are on display in Istanbul, with incredible landmarks, thriving nightlife, and stunning vistas. You can't afford to miss this cosmopolitan crossroads of the world. It is one of the most enjoyable cities to visit and explore.
Istanbul, a city that stretches across two continents, has welcomed a wide variety of civilizations, which have come and gone over the centuries. It is a melting pot of cultures that blends the old with the new, giving visitors a sense of the city's long history.
There is little doubt that the century-old mix of cultures has profoundly affected the cuisine scene. Like many other cuisines, authentic Ottoman food, traditional Turkish fare, and Western-style fare are all found in Istanbul.
This one-of-a-kind metropolis, known for its picturesque landscape and inviting ambiance, is also a symbol of vibrant, contemporary city life. The time has come to discover Istanbul for yourself!

Things to Do & See in Istanbul

Visit Sultanahmet Square

The Sultanahmet Square, also known as Hippodrome, is one of Istanbul's most renowned tourist attractions in the city's heart and a favorite meeting place for locals and visitors alike. It is a must-see for visitors. Many of the city's most popular attractions can be found here.
The area surrounding Sultanahmet Square is the heart of Istanbul's historic district. It provides access to the city's most important landmarks. Two of Istanbul's most famous landmarks are the Hagia Sophia and the Sultanahmet Mosque, now museums.
For guests, it offers an astonishing array of lodging alternatives for all prices and tastes, a network of tiny alleys and side streets, and breathtaking views of the Bosphorus.
Obelisk, Serpentine Column, Colossus, or Column of the Constantine Porphyrogenitus are Sultanahmet Square's most famous monuments. These three memorials are still standing today in the middle of the location where these racers turn around. During their first day in Istanbul, most tourists head straight there, as it is a well-known landmark.

Shopping at Grand Bazaar

Istanbul's 550-year-old market Grand Bazaar is among the world's largest bazaars and oldest markets, covering an area of more than 30,000 square meters. It is the city's most famous tourist attraction.
With an annual visitor count of 91,250,000, it ranked first among its most popular holiday spots. It's a great spot to buy Turkey-themed gifts for loved ones back home. There is a wide range of choices in this bazaar, something for every taste and budget. It is widely considered one of the world's most important shopping districts.
It's a place where history, flavor, and the aroma of Turkish coffee all come together. At the Grand Bazaar, you'll find one of the world's largest and oldest covered markets.
This maze of covered pathways lined with businesses has something for everyone, no matter their hobbies. Traditional Turkish handicrafts, the most delicate silk shawls and scarves embroidered with traditional patterns and designs, antiques, and leather goods may be found in the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul. Numerous shops are selling unique carpets and rugs within the complex. Traditional Turkish attire can also be found.

Explore Galata Tower

Galata Tower, one of Istanbul's most recognizable landmarks, was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2013. It is one of the most recognizable sights in Istanbul, overlooking the city's two most populous districts of Karakoy and Beyoglu.
The 220-foot-tall tower once stood as the city's highest point in the Genoese colony of Galata, known as the Tower of Christ. With its 12-foot thick walls, the enormous tower is still standing.
Galata Tower served as a prison, observatory, and watchtower throughout the Ottoman period. In 1960, the Galata Tower was reopened to the public as a commercial enterprise following its renovation.
Today, the tower serves as a vantage point to visit in all of Istanbul. There are numerous attractions in the Galata Tower Museum and the surrounding area, including a bustling cultural center.
A significant tourist attraction in Istanbul, the observation deck of Galata Tower, offers a panoramic view of the city. To get to the top, you can take one of the two elevators near the entrance.
A restaurant and cafe provide traditional Turkish fare, and a gift shop is located at the tower's base. Visitors can also buy souvenirs from the gift shop. On the recently refurbished small area surrounding the Galata Tower, visitors can enjoy a pleasant day at the nearby magnificent bars and cafes, restaurants, and gift shops.

Enjoying Ramadan(Ramzan), A Holy Month of Muslims

It's especially magical to visit during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan (or Ramzan in Turkish), which will start from 2 April 2022. The city comes to life at night, even if it's calm during the day. Iftar dinners are organized by local municipalities each night, where thousands of Muslims gather to break their daily fast at dusk and picnic in public locations near mosques. It's a great time to get to know your neighbors and meet new people because it is National Hospitality Month.