Istanbul
Istanbul is a transcontinental city straddling Europe and Asia, separated by the Bosphorus Strait. It's a city of immense history, from Byzantine churches to Ottoman mosques, with a vibrant modern culture.
History
Founded as Byzantium, then Constantinople, it served as the capital of the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires. The city fell to the Ottomans in 1453, who made it their capital until 1922. It was renamed Istanbul in 1930. Its strategic location has made it a crossroads of civilizations for millennia.
Famous for
How to reach
By air: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW). By rail: Sirkeci station (European side). By road: connected to Europe and Asia via highways.
Nearby attractions
Emergency contacts
About
Istanbul is the only city in the world spanning two continents. The historic Sultanahmet district contains the city's greatest monuments: Hagia Sophia, a former Byzantine cathedral turned mosque turned museum turned mosque again; the Blue Mosque with its six minarets and blue tiles; and Topkapi Palace, the lavish home of Ottoman sultans.
The Grand Bazaar is one of the world's largest and oldest covered markets, with over 4,000 shops. The Spice Bazaar offers aromatic herbs, spices, and Turkish delights. A Bosphorus cruise offers stunning views of palaces, mansions, and fortresses lining the strait.
Istanbul's food scene is incredible, blending Ottoman, Balkan, and Middle Eastern influences. Doner kebabs, lahmacun, mezes, and fresh seafood are staples. The city's tea culture is everywhere, with çay (Turkish tea) served in tulip-shaped glasses throughout the day.