Istanbul Turkey
Overview
Istanbul is a vast city spanning two continents, blending Byzantine and Ottoman heritage. Sultanahmet's monuments, Bosphorus shores, Beyoğlu's art scene and superb street food all fit on one route. A short ferry ride takes you to the Asian side and to nature.
Getting around
Get an Istanbulkart; it works on the metro, trams, Marmaray, buses and ferries. The T1 tram serves Sultanahmet, while Marmaray or ferries are fastest between continents. From the airport use the M11 metro or Havaist buses, and avoid rush-hour traffic.
Where to stay
- Sultanahmet – The historic peninsula with Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapı.
- Beyoğlu – Hub of art, bars and nightlife around İstiklal Avenue, Galata and Karaköy.
- Kadıköy – Lively Asian-side district known for its market, cafes and local food scene.
- Balat – Historic Golden Horn quarter of colorful houses, antique shops and cafes.
- Beşiktaş – District of Dolmabahçe Palace, Bosphorus promenades, a market and fish restaurants.
- Üsküdar – Old Asian-side district with Maiden's Tower views, mosques and a traditional market.
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Food & Drink
Istanbul's cuisine joins Ottoman palace cooking, Anatolian dishes and Bosphorus fish. Enjoy menemen and tea at breakfast, kebab or a lokanta lunch, and a meyhane dinner.
Museums
Istanbul's museums range from Byzantine and Ottoman palaces to modern art galleries. Explore the old peninsula on foot and the modern museums along Beyoğlu and the Bosphorus.
Hiking
Just outside the city, Belgrad Forest, Bosphorus hills and Black Sea coasts offer easy day hikes. The Islands and Polonezköy make ideal one-day escapes.
Extreme Sports
Around Istanbul you can paraglide, dive and kitesurf on the Black Sea, kayak the Bosphorus, and try ziplines and mountain biking in the forests. Always use licensed operators and check the weather.
Culture
Istanbul keeps Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman layers side by side. Mosques, hammams, bazaars and whirling dervish ceremonies keep its culture alive.
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