ABOUT ISTANBUL
Istanbul, the country’s cultural capital, has been an attractive settlement for various civilizations since ancient times. Today the city is visited each year by millions of travelers who come to catch a glimpse of its ancient city walls, enchanted churches, palaces and mosques, while savoring the delightful tastes of the city’s rich cuisine. İstanbul offers an unforgettable experience with its colorful daily life and dynamic nightlife. It is also an attractive destination for international meetings with its world class accommodation and convention facilities.
Istanbul, Dersaadet, Konstantiniye, Byzantion…
A city where continents meet, Istanbul stands as a vibrant bridge between Europe and Asia, blending rich history with modern life. Formerly known as Byzantium and Constantinople, Istanbul has served as the capital of three great empires: Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman. Today, it is Turkey’s cultural and economic heart, offering visitors a unique mix of heritage and dynamism.
Hagia Sophia
Originally built in 537 AD by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, Hagia Sophia served as the world’s largest cathedral for nearly a thousand years. After the Ottoman conquest in 1453, it was converted into a mosque, and later into a museum in the 20th century. With its massive dome, intricate mosaics, and historical significance, it remains one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks.
Topkapı Palace
The imperial residence of Ottoman sultans for over 400 years, Topkapı Palace is a sprawling complex overlooking the Bosphorus. It houses an impressive collection of treasures, including the Prophet Muhammad’s cloak and sword. Visitors can explore its ornate courtyards, harem quarters, and panoramic terraces.
Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque)
Commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I in the early 17th century, this majestic mosque is famous for its six minarets and interior decorated with more than 20,000 handmade blue tiles. It remains an active place of worship and a must-see for its harmonious architecture and spiritual ambiance.
Grand Bazaar
Established in the 15th century, the Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. With over 4,000 shops spread across dozens of streets, visitors can find carpets, jewelry, leather goods, spices, ceramics, and more. It’s a vibrant place to experience traditional commerce and culture.
Historic Peninsula
As the former capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, present day İstanbul retains the history that emerged from the city and integrates its historical values to the modern life. Sultanahmet, located at the center of the historic peninsula, is where most of the İstanbul’s famous historical sights are located. Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque are both situated in this dynamic part of the city.
A few hundred meters away is the world famous Grand Bazaar, which for the past six centuries has been a center for the trading of gold and authentic Turkish produce. The nearby Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı) is a breathtaking venue for banquets and special events. No visit to İstanbul is complete without crossing the beautiful Golden Horn the natural harbor opening to the Bosphorus- and relaxing on the green parks that stretch along the shore to enjoy magnificent sunsets.
With their mixed Turkish, Greek and Jewish quarters, Eyüp, Fener and Balat are ideal for those who feel in the mood for a little time travel. The Greek Orthodox Patriarchate, which administers 85 churches, stands in the Fener district. North of the historic peninsula, across the Golden Horn, is Galata, crowned by the Galata tower. Galata, Beyoğlu and the İstiklal Street accommodate much of the city’s nightlife venues.
The Heart of the City: Beyoğlu
Beyoğlu, İstanbul’s culture and entertainment center, has always been a meeting point for cultures and peoples. The multiculturalism of this vibrant district is abundantly refl ected in architecture, daily life and culinary culture. İstiklal Street is the heart of this large district full of cinemas, theaters, restaurants, cafes, bars, and clubs and almost every visitor to İstanbul is attracted by the bright lights of the Street.
Galata Tower
Built in 1348 as a watchtower by the Genoese, Galata Tower rises over the city’s historic district. Today, it offers a panoramic 360-degree view of Istanbul from its observation deck. The surrounding Galata neighborhood is also worth exploring for its cafes, boutiques, and lively atmosphere.
Istanbul Modern & Pera Museum
Istanbul Modern is the city’s premier contemporary art museum, featuring works by Turkish and international artists. The Pera Museum, housed in a beautifully restored building, showcases Orientalist paintings, Anatolian weights and measures, and rotating exhibitions. Both contribute to Istanbul’s vibrant cultural scene.
The Spectacular Bosphorus
The Bosphorus, separating Asia and Europe, is the ultimate treasure and beauty of İstanbul, where the city breathes. Both banks of the Bosphorus are decorated by characteristic, wooden waterside mansions, symbols of the old tradition of large, wealthy families residing on the Bosphorus’ shores. Fishing dominates life on the Bosphorus thanks to the fertile sea that brings shoals of fresh fi sh daily and on every shore of the Bosphorus are restaurants serving delicious seafood.
North of Beşiktaş you arrive at Ortaköy, whose cafés, restaurants and bars are enjoyable day or night. The districts beyond Ortaköy on the European side of the Bosphorus all have great natural beauty and places of entertainment: Kuruçeşme, Arnavutköy, Bebek, Rumelihisarı, Baltalimanı, Emirgan, İstinye, Yeniköy, Tarabya, Kireçburnu, Büyükdere, Sarıyer and Rumelifeneri are all charming districts.
Bosphorus Cruise
A cruise along the Bosphorus offers a unique perspective of Istanbul’s skyline, connecting Europe and Asia. Along the way, you’ll see Ottoman-era palaces, historic mansions (yalıs), mosques, and modern bridges. Sunset cruises are particularly popular for their stunning views and ambiance.
