Istanbul is one of the world's most interesting cities because it has a history that spans the rise and fall of the world's most famous empires. The city has been known by many names over the years, including Constantinople and Byzantium, and it has been home to both the Roman and Ottoman Empires. Today, Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey and is among the 15 largest urban areas in the world. It is located on the Bosporus Strait and covers the entire area of the Golden Horn, a natural harbour. Because of its size, Istanbul extends into both Europe and Asia. The city is the world’s only metropolis to be on more than one continent. As a result, Istanbul is an important centre for trade and culture, and it is a fascinating place to visit.
Europe Istanbul vs. Asian Istanbul
Travellers to Istanbul are often struck by the city’s unique location, straddling both Europe and Asia. The Bosphorus strait, which runs through the centre of the city, provides a natural boundary between the two continents. On the European side of the city, visitors will find many of Istanbul’s most famous historical landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia and the Topkapi Palace. This side of the city is also its commercial centre, with banks, stores and corporations. In contrast, the Asian side of Istanbul feels more relaxed, with wide boulevards and residential neighbourhoods. Fewer hotels and tourist attractions can be found here, making it a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Whether you’re interested in history or just looking for a place to relax, Istanbul has something to offer everyone.
Best time to visit Istanbul
Many people think that the best time to visit a new place is during the summertime. However, this isn't always the case. For example, the best times to visit Istanbul are from March to May and between September and November. That's when crowds at the city's attractions are manageable, room rates are average and daytime temperatures (°F) generally sit in the 60s and 70s. Peak season – from June to August – sees temps (°F) soar into the low 60s to low 80s, and accommodation prices increase to match the demand from incoming tourists. December through February, meanwhile, are the cheapest months to visit, but Istanbul's rainy, snowy and chilly conditions (temps (°F) are in the high 30s to high 50s) mean you'll have to don cold weather attire and lug an umbrella during your stay. So if you're looking to save some money and avoid the crowds, consider visiting Istanbul during the shoulder seasons. You'll be glad you did!
Getting around Istanbul
Walking
Walking is simple and fun in districts such as Sultanahmet and Eminönü, although other regions are less crowded. Explore the lanes and bazaars on foot, but take a bus or tram if you need to go further distances. Also, have a good map with you.
Bus
Istanbul's bus system, which is operated by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, is quite efficient, with lines running across the city. Because buses do not have maps, you should know where you're going before boarding. Any terminal may provide a bus map, and timetables for all routes are accessible on the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality's Route/Station Search page. Most buses operate between 6 a.m. and midnight every day. You must purchase a limited-use ticket or an Istanbulkart card to ride the city's buses.
Tram
You'll notice the tram dashing through the streets and want to get aboard. They are a convenient method to go around the city and get from one location to another. There are four tram lines accessible, however, the Bagcilar-Kabatas (T1) Tram will most likely be the most useful for getting about the popular areas, since it makes stops at must-see attractions such as Galata Tower, Istanbul Modern, and the Hagia Sophia Museum.
Metro
Metro Istanbul has six lines, the majority of which serve the city's European side. The Yenikapi-Atatürk Havalimani (M1A) bus runs between the airport and the central bus terminal (Otogar). The majority of metro stations are not the most convenient public transit alternative to prominent destinations, but the system's underground lines make it a faster choice during rush hour.
Ferry
Known locally as vapurlar, ferries – which are operated by Sehir Hatlari – depart multiple times a day from the city's European and Asian sides. Several ports along the Bosphorus, the Sea of Marmara and the Golden Horn are available, including ones in Kadiköy, Eminönü, Ortaköy and Karaköy. Using the ferry system is the best way to reach the Princes' Islands, and it is also the most affordable way to tour the Bosphorus.
Taxi
Taxis are numerous, inexpensive, and convenient in Istanbul, but drivers have a reputation for defrauding passengers. A smart cabbie may claim that the metre is broken and charge you a larger flat fare. If this occurs, you should have no hesitation in exiting the cab and boarding another. It may also be beneficial to write down and show your driver the address of your ultimate destination; this will make communication much easier.
Taxis may be hailed on the street, but to avoid being cheated, ask your hotel to call one for you. Taxi drivers are less inclined to overcharge hotel clients since it may harm their future business.
Car
Driving in Istanbul is not advised. Istanbul traffic is notoriously sluggish and crowded, distances are measured in kilometres, parking is difficult to come by, and petrol is costly. The roads are extremely challenging to navigate. If you really must have your own set of wheels, you may rent one at the airport. You'll need an international driving permit, which may be obtained via AAA or DMV.org.
Top-Rated Tourist Attractions
Istanbul is a city rich in history and culture, and there is no shortage of amazing tourist attractions to explore. From the iconic Hagia Sophia to the magnificent Topkapı Palace, there is something to marvel at around every corner. However, with so many world-renowned attractions, it can be difficult to know where to start. To help you make the most of your trip, here are 10 of the top-rated tourist attractions in Istanbul:
Hagia Sophia: This awe-inspiring mosque was once a Christian cathedral before being converted into a Muslim place of worship. Today, it stands as one of the most iconic sights in Istanbul.
Topkapı Palace: This massive palace complex served as the primary residence of the Ottoman sultans for centuries. Visitors can explore countless rooms and halls, each more impressive than the last.
Blue Mosque: This stunning mosque is easily recognized by its six minarets and beautiful blue tiles. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Istanbul.
Dolmabahçe Palace: This lavish palace was built in the 19th century and served as the primary residence of the Ottoman sultans until 1922. Today, it is open to the public as a museum.
Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts (Türk ve Islam Eserleri Müzesi): This museum houses an impressive collection of Turkish and Islamic art, making it a must-see for history and culture buffs.
Istanbul Archaeology Museum: This world-renowned museum is home to over one million artefacts, making it one of Turkey's largest and most comprehensive museums.
Fatih Mosque: This mosque is one of the largest in Istanbul and features a beautiful courtyard and an impressive collection of Ottoman-era relics.
Süleymaniye Mosque: This mosque was built in the 16th century by the renowned Ottoman architect Sinan and is considered one of his finest works.
Galata Tower: This historic tower offers stunning views of Istanbul from its observation deck. Visitors can also enjoy a meal or drink at the tower’s restaurant or café.
Chora Church: This beautiful Byzantine church is decorated with stunning mosaics and frescoes. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Istanbul’s Old City.
Bosphorus Cruise: A cruise down the Bosphorus Strait is one of the best ways to see Istanbul. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the city’s skyline and landmarks from the comfort of a boat.
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Delicious foods that you can find in Istanbul
Istanbul is a city with a rich culinary tradition. From kebabs to pilafs, there is something for everyone to enjoy. And, of course, no visit to Istanbul would be complete without trying a few of the city's signature dishes. Here are just a few of the many delicious foods that you can find in Istanbul
Köfte: Köfte are Turkish meatballs, usually made from ground lamb or beef. They can be grilled, baked, or fried, and are often served with rice or bulgur.
Lahmacun: Also known as Turkish pizza, lahmacun is a thin flatbread topped with minced meat, vegetables, and spices. It's simple but delicious and makes for a great street food snack.
Şakşuka: Şakşuka is a dish of eggplants and tomatoes stewed in olive oil and spices. It's often served as part of a meze spread, but can also be eaten on its own as a side dish.
Imam bayıldı: Imam bayıldı is a dish of eggplants stuffed with rice, pine nuts, and currants. The name of the dish means "the imam fainted," and it's said to be so named because the imam who first tried it fainted from how delicious it was!
Karnıyarık: Karnıyarık is a dish of eggplants stuffed with minced meat, onions, and tomatoes. It's a hearty and filling main course, perfect for a winter night.
İskender kebap: İskender kebap is a dish of lamb or beef served on a bed of pide bread and topped with yoghurt and tomato sauce. It's a popular dish in Istanbul, and you can find it at many kebab restaurants around the city.
Döner kebap: Döner kebap is another type of kebab, but instead of being served on a plate, it's served in a pita bread wrap. It's a great street food option; you can find it all over Istanbul.
Pide: Pide is a type of Turkish flatbread, often topped with cheese, vegetables, or meat. It's similar to pizza and makes for a great quick and easy meal.
Börek: Börek is a type of pastry made with phyllo dough and filled with cheese, vegetables, or meat. It's popular as a breakfast food, but can also be eaten as a snack or light meal.
Gözleme: Gözleme is a type of flatbread made with phyllo dough and filled with cheese, vegetables, or meat. It's similar to a börek but is usually smaller in size.
Künefe: Künefe is a dessert made with kadayıf (shredded wheat) and cheese, soaked in syrup and served with pistachios. It's a popular dessert in Istanbul, and you can find it at many pastry shops around the city.
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Shopping in Istanbul
Istiklal Avenue: This pedestrian-only street is one of the best places to shop, eat, and people watch in Istanbul. It is also home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Galata Tower.
Grand Bazaar: This sprawling market is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. With over 4,000 shops, it is a paradise for shoppers and bargain hunters alike.
Spice Bazaar: Also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, this market is famous for its wide selection of spices and herbs. It is the perfect place to find ingredients for a traditional Turkey.
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Istanbul’s Top Cities
Bahçeşehir
If you're looking for a place to call home in Istanbul, you may want to consider Bahçeşehir. This neighbourhood, literally meaning "garden city", gets its name from the lush greenery that surrounds it. And it's not just a pretty face – Bahçeşehir has everything you need, from restaurants and bars to shops, schools, and concert halls. Plus, it's well-connected, with regular buses to central Istanbul and Istanbul Atatürk Airport. And when Istanbul's third international airport is up and running (currently under construction), Bahçeşehir will be perfectly located for making quick getaways. So if you're searching for a suburban oasis in Istanbul, keep Bahçeşehir on your radar.
Sarıyer
If you're looking for a quieter, more suburban feel within Istanbul, then Sarıyer might be the district for you. Situated at the city's northernmost point, Sarıyer is home to some of Istanbul's most beautiful neighbourhoods - Rumelifeneri, Tarabya, Yeniköy, İstinye and Rumelihisarı - as well as a number of Black Sea coastal resorts. The area is also renowned for its expansive Belgrade Forest, making it a popular spot for hiking and outdoor activities among locals. With the construction of the third Bosphorus Bridge set to be completed in 2015, Sarıyer will also have convenient access to Istanbul's third airport. If you're looking for a slower-paced alternative to Istanbul's hustle and bustle, then Sarıyer might just be the perfect place for you.
Zincirlikuyu
Zincirlikuyu is one of Istanbul's busiest neighbourhoods and it is no surprise why. It is perfectly located in the heart of the city's business districts and it is very well connected to the rest of Istanbul. There are many bus routes that pass through Zincirlikuyu and it also serves five of the city's metro bus lines. This means that you can easily get to the Asian side of the city (or anywhere else) very quickly. In addition, Zincirlikuyu is also connected to the underground Metro system via the Gayrettepe station. In 2014, the multipurpose Zorlu Center opened in this district. This sleekly designed space boasts over 200 shops, some of Istanbul's top international restaurants and the city's largest performing arts centre. If you are ever in Istanbul, be sure to check out Zincirlikuyu!
Beylikdüzü
If you're looking for a modern, convenient place to live in Istanbul, Beylikdüzü is definitely worth considering. This former farming village is now home to affluent middle-class families who are attracted by the newer, more modern housing developments in the area. It's also a commuter's dream, with the metro bus service running 24 hours a day and connecting Beylikdüzü directly to central Istanbul in just 60 minutes. And if you're an international traveller, it's even more ideal, as it's only 12km from Istanbul Atatürk airport. The locals know Beylikdüzü as a great shopping destination, thanks to the number of malls and mega markets in the area. So if you're looking for a comfortable place to call home, Beylikdüzü should definitely be at the top of your list!
Esenyurt
If you're looking for an affordable place to live in Istanbul, then Esenyurt is definitely worth considering. This rapidly-growing residential district is flanked by two major highways and well-connected to the city centre via various bus and metro bus lines. In response to the increasing demand from new residents, several shopping malls, culture centres and parks have been built in recent years, making Esenyurt a lively and vibrant place to live. So if you're on the hunt for a budget-friendly neighbourhood with plenty of amenities, be sure to check out Esenyurt.
Guneşli & Halkalı
If you're looking for a convenient place to stay when travelling to Istanbul, you can't go wrong with the neighbourhoods of Guneşli and Halkalı. Just 15 minutes from Atatürk Airport, these two areas offer easy access to all the best that Istanbul has to offer, whether you're looking for great seafood restaurants, lovely views of the Marmara coast, or a peaceful stroll by Küyükçekmece Lake. Plus, with the opening of the Halkalı railway station in 2014, getting around town will be a breeze. Whether you're headed downtown or to the Asia side, you'll be able to get there in just minutes. So if you're looking for a great place to stay in Istanbul, make sure to check out Guneşli and Halkalı.
Levent
Levent is one of the most desirable places to live in Istanbul. It's a modern, cosmopolitan neighbourhood with all the amenities you could want. There are plenty of shopping centres and restaurants, and the views of the Bosphorus strait are simply stunning. The downside to living in Levent is that it's a bit of a bubble. It can be quite insular, and it can be hard to meet people from outside your social circle. But if you're looking for a place to call home in Istanbul, Levent is definitely worth considering.