CITY BREAK ISTANBUL > ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW
Istanbul is a city where East meets West, where ancient history blends seamlessly with modern culture. It’s a city where you can experience the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire at Topkapi Palace, the beauty of Islamic architecture at the Blue Mosque, and the hustle and bustle of the Grand Bazaar. Istanbul offers something for everyone, from delicious street food to world-class museums, and from beautiful beaches to scenic parks.
CITY BREAK TO THE CITY OF THE WORLD’S DESIRE, ISTANBUL
Istanbul will captivate your senses and leave you with unforgettable memories. The city where East meets West, where ancient history blends seamlessly with modern culture. Istanbul is a melting pot of cultures, religions, and traditions, that offers a unique and diverse experience. From the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire at Topkapi Palace, to the beauty of Islamic architecture at the Blue Mosque, Istanbul is a city that is rich in history and culture. The Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, is a must-visit destination for shoppers looking for souvenirs and traditional Turkish products. The city also offers a vibrant culinary scene, from delicious street food to world-class restaurants, where you can taste the flavours of Istanbul.
Istanbul is a city of scenic beauty, with its parks and gardens, including the famous Taksim Square and the historic Galata Tower, offering stunning views of the city. The Bosphorus Strait, which runs through the city, is an ideal spot for a boat trip, where you can admire the beautiful Ottoman mansions, the modern skyscrapers and the picturesque villages. The city also has beaches and seaside resorts, which are perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Istanbul is a city of contrasts, where the ancient and the modern live side by side. It’s a city that will leave you with unforgettable memories, and make you want to come back again and again. With its rich history, vibrant culture and scenic beauty, a City Break to Istanbul should be at the top of your travel bucket list.
City Break Istanbul: Vibrant Neighbourhoods
Sultanahmet
Sultanahmet is a historic neighbourhood, steeped in the rich history and culture of the city. Located at the heart of Istanbul, Sultanahmet is home to some of the most famous landmarks and monuments in the city, including the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace. Take a stroll through the winding streets and admire the stunning Ottoman-era architecture, including the beautifully decorated mosaics and tiles that adorn the many mosques, palaces, and public spaces.
Explore the vibrant bazaars, where you can shop for traditional Turkish goods, from spices and textiles to jewelry and ceramics. Visit the Hagia Sophia, a former mosque and now a museum, and admire the stunning Byzantine architecture and the intricate mosaics that cover its walls and dome. Explore the Blue Mosque, one of the most famous landmarks in Istanbul, with its stunning blue tiles and six minarets. For a taste of local life, head to one of the many cafes and restaurants in Sultanahmet and sample the delicious local cuisine, from savoury kebabs and spicy stews to fresh breads and sweets.
Beyoglu
Beyoglu, also known as Pera, is a bustling place and famous for its rich history, vibrant culture, and thriving arts scene. A melting pot of cultures and influences, Beyoglu is a true reflection of the diverse and dynamic spirit of Istanbul. Begin your visit at the Galata Tower, a medieval stone tower that offers breath-taking views of the city and the Bosphorus Strait. Explore the many shops and boutiques that line the streets of Beyoglu, and shop for everything from designer clothing and accessories to traditional Turkish goods and souvenirs.
Admire the stunning architecture of the neighbourhood, from the grand Ottoman-era mansions to the Art Nouveau buildings and the modern high-rises. Explore the vibrant arts scene of Beyoglu, with its numerous galleries, theatres, and museums, showcasing the works of local and international artists. Head to one of the many cafes and restaurants in Beyoglu and savour the delicious local cuisine, from kebabs and spicy stews to fresh seafood and sweets. Take a stroll through the lively streets and soak up the vibrant energy of this dynamic neighbourhood.
Kadıköy
Kadıköy is a bustling coastal neighborhood located on the Asian side of Istanbul. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage, Kadıköy is a popular destination. Stroll along the scenic seaside promenade, and take in the views of the Marmara Sea and the nearby islands. Visit one of the many historic landmarks in Kadıköy, including the ancient Kadıköy Agora, one of the oldest public squares in Istanbul, and the historic Haydarpaşa Terminal, a stunning Ottoman-era railway station.
Take a break at one of the many cafes and restaurants in Kadıköy, and enjoy a delicious meal or snack while soaking up the local atmosphere. Try the local cuisine, including fresh seafood, grilled meats, and flavourful salads, all made with locally sourced ingredients. Be sure to admire the vibrant street art and murals that adorn the walls and buildings of Kadıköy, showcasing the talents of local artists.
Ortaköy
Ortaköy is a charming and historic district located on the banks of the Bosphorus Strait. With its narrow cobbled streets, historic architecture, and bustling cafes and restaurants, Ortaköy is a must-visit destination if you are looking to experience the true essence of Istanbul. Wander through the picturesque streets of Ortaköy, surrounded by the colorful buildings and shops, and admire the stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait and the city skyline. Visit the beautiful Ortaköy Mosque, one of the oldest and most important religious landmarks in Istanbul, and marvel at its stunning Ottoman-era architecture and intricate tilework.
Stroll along the seaside promenade, and watch the boats and ferries sailing along the Bosphorus Strait. Take a break at one of the many cafes and restaurants in Ortaköy, and enjoy a delicious meal or snack while soaking up the views of the city. For a taste of local life, visit one of the many shops and boutiques in Ortaköy, and shop for everything from handcrafted Turkish goods and souvenirs to designer clothing and accessories. And be sure to admire the vibrant street art and murals that adorn the walls and buildings of Ortaköy, showcasing the talents of local artists.
Besiktas
Besiktas is a vibrant district located along the shores of the Bosphorus Strait. It is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and thriving arts and cultural scene. Take a stroll along the picturesque seaside promenade and admire the stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait and the city skyline. Explore the many shops and boutiques in the neighbourhood, and shop for everything from designer clothing and accessories to traditional Turkish goods and souvenirs.
Discover the rich history of Besiktas, with its numerous landmarks and monuments, including the historic Dolmabahce Palace, the stunning Besiktas Square, and the famous Vodafone Park Stadium. Admire the stunning Ottoman-era architecture, from the grand mansions and palaces to the beautiful mosques and monuments. For a taste of local life, head to one of the many cafes and restaurants in Besiktas. Explore the vibrant arts and cultural scene of Besiktas, with its numerous galleries, theatres, and museums, showcasing the works of local and international artists.
The TOP 10 must-see attractions in Istanbul
Hagia Sophia
This ancient Byzantine cathedral-turned-mosque-turned-museum is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. You can admire the beautiful mosaics and frescoes, and marvel at the architectural innovations of the building, which was once the largest cathedral in the world. The Hagia Sophia is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, and its dome is considered a technical and architectural wonder. It’s a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Istanbul, both for its historical and architectural significance. The Hagia Sophia was built in 537 AD, it served as a church for almost 1000 years and then as a mosque for another 500 years, before it was converted into a museum in 1935.
The Blue Mosque
The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture. You can admire the intricate tile work and the six minarets of the mosque. The Blue Mosque is known for its blue Iznik tiles, which gives it its name. The mosque was built between 1609-1616 and it’s still an active mosque, but also open to visitors. With its grand dome, six minarets, and intricate tile work, the Blue Mosque is a standout attraction, and it’s one of the most famous and visited mosques in the world.
Topkapi Palace
The palace served as the primary residence of the Ottoman sultans for almost 400 years, and is now a museum. You can explore the grand halls, courtyards and the Treasury, where the sultans’ treasures are displayed. The palace offers a glimpse into the lives of the Ottoman sultans and their court, and the palace’s architecture and decoration are a representation of the Ottoman Empire’s grandeur and wealth. The palace complex is made up of four courtyards, and many buildings, including the Harem, the Treasury, and the Audience Chamber, each one with its own rich history and stories.
The Bosphorus Strait
A boat trip on the Bosphorus Strait is a great way to admire the beautiful Ottoman mansions, the modern skyscrapers and the picturesque villages. Enjoy the sunset while taking a cruise on the strait. It separates Europe from Asia and it’s a great way to see the city from a different perspective. A cruise on the Bosphorus Strait offers a great opportunity to witness the blending of two continents, Europe and Asia, and the beauty of the strait with its historical and natural wonders.
Taksim Square
Taksim Square is a central point of Istanbul’s modern culture and entertainment. Here you can enjoy the lively atmosphere, the street performers and the many restaurants and cafes in the area. Taksim Square is a popular spot for locals and tourists, and it’s a great place to people watch and get a feel for the city’s modern culture. Taksim Square is also a starting point for the famous Istiklal street, which is known for its shops, restaurants and nightlife.
Galata Tower
The Galata Tower is a medieval stone located in the Galata district, which is on the European side of Istanbul, just north of the Golden Horn. The tower was built in 1348 and it is one of the most famous landmarks in Istanbul. It stands at a height of 66.9 meters and it offers stunning views of the city and the Bosphorus. It has an observation deck on the top floor which is open to the public and it’s accessible by elevator. The tower has been used for many purposes throughout history, from being a prison to a fire-watch tower.
Dolmabahce Palace
The palace was the residence of the last Ottoman sultans, and it’s now a museum. You can admire the grand halls, the opulent decoration and the beautiful gardens. The palace offers a glimpse into the lives of the Ottoman sultans and their court, and the palace’s architecture and decoration are a representation of the Ottoman Empire’s grandeur and wealth. Dolmabahce palace is considered one of the most beautiful palaces in the world and it was built in the 19th century, it features a grand entrance, a ceremonial hall and many opulent rooms.
Ortaköy Mosque
The Ortaköy Mosque, also known as the Büyük Mecidiye Camii, is a historic mosque located in Ortaköy.It was built in the 19th century during the reign of Ottoman Sultan Abdülmecid and was designed by architect Nigoğos Balyan. The mosque is situated on the European side of the Bosphorus Strait and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul. It features a combination of Ottoman and Baroque architectural styles and is known for its intricate tilework and ornate decoration. The mosque offers stunning views of the Bosphorus and the city of Istanbul.
The Basilica Cistern
The Basilica Cistern is an ancient underground cistern dating back to the Byzantine era. You can explore the cistern and admire the Medusa heads that decorate the bottom of the cistern. The cistern was built in the 6th century, it’s an underground chamber that was used to store water, it’s a unique attraction that offers a glimpse into the city’s history and engineering. The cistern is dimly lit, creating an eerie and mysterious atmosphere.
The Grand Bazaar
One of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, the Grand Bazaar is a must-visit destination for shoppers. Look for souvenirs, traditional Turkish products, and sample some delicious street food. The Grand Bazaar is a labyrinth of streets and alleys where you can find anything from spices, textiles, jewellery, to ceramics and carpets. It’s a great place to experience the bustling atmosphere of Istanbul with it’s maze of streets and alleys. Here you will find anything from spices, textiles, jewellery, to ceramics and carpets. Prepare for some bargaining, as it’s a common practice in the Grand Bazaar.
The best city break activities Istanbul
Shopping
Istanbul is a city with a thriving shopping scene, with a wide range of options for shopping and souvenir hunting. The İstiklâl Caddesi is a pedestrian street located in Istanbul that is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. It is a popular destination for shopping and dining, and it is home to many high-end boutiques and international chain stores. The Kadıköy Market is a large covered market located on the Asian side of Istanbul that is known for its wide variety of goods, including fresh produce, spices, and clothing. It is a great place to experience the local culture and cuisine.
The Galatasaray Square is a popular public square located in Istanbul that is known for its lively atmosphere and shopping. It is home to many high-end boutiques and international chain stores. The Nişantaşı neighbourhood is quite upscale, located on the European side of Istanbul and is known for its fashionable boutiques and international chain stores. Last but not least The Grand Bazaar is a must-visit.
3 Fun activities for Children
Miniaturk
Miniaturk is a miniature park located in Istanbul, it features miniature replicas of famous architectural and cultural landmarks from Turkey and the Ottoman Empire. The park covers an area of 15,000 square meters and it’s a great place to learn about Turkey’s history and culture. You can see the replicas of landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace. Miniaturk is a great place for families and visitors of all ages, it’s an entertaining and educational way to discover the heritage of Turkey.
The Istanbul Aquarium
The Istanbul Aquarium is a modern and interactive attraction located in Florya. It is one of the largest aquariums in Europe and features a wide variety of marine life from the Black Sea, Mediterranean and the Red Sea, including sharks, rays, and tropical fish. The aquarium also has a section dedicated to the sea turtles and the largest underwater tunnel in Turkey. It also includes some interactive exhibits and activities, such as a touch pool where you can interact with some of the animals. It’s a great place to learn about the marine life and the importance of conservation.
Go to the beach
Istanbul is not known for its beaches, however, there are some options for visitors looking to enjoy the sun and the sea. One popular beach is Kilyos, located on the Black Sea, it’s a great place for swimming, sunbathing and having a barbecue. Another option is the Princes’ Islands, which are a group of islands located in the Sea of Marmara. You can reach the islands by ferry and enjoy the beaches, cycling, or horse-drawn carriage rides. Other options include the beaches located on the Bosphorus Strait, which offer a more upscale experience, with restaurants, bars and sunbeds.
Football Istanbul
There are a few ways to get tickets for a football match in Istanbul. You can purchase tickets for most matches on the official website of the football club hosting the match. You can also purchase tickets at the stadium on the day of the match, if there are still available. There are also authorized ticket vendors, such as Biletix, that sell tickets for matches in Istanbul and other cities in Turkey. It’s always a good idea to check and confirm the availability of the tickets before making any travel plan, because sometimes the matches are sold out and it could be difficult to find tickets. It is important to note that it’s not recommended to buy tickets from street vendors or unauthorized sellers, as they may be counterfeit or overpriced.
Beşiktaş JK
Beşiktaş JK was founded in 1903 and plays in the Süper Lig, the top tier of Turkish football. The club is known for its passionate fans and has a fierce rivalry with other Istanbul-based clubs, including Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe. Beşiktaş plays its home matches at the Vodafone Park, a modern stadium located in the Beşiktaş neighbourhood with a seating capacity of over 52,000.
Fenerbahçe SK
Fenerbahçe SK was founded in 1907 and plays in the Süper Lig. Fenerbahçe has a long and storied history, having won numerous domestic and international titles. Fenerbahçe plays its home matches at the Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium, a modern stadium located in Kadıköy with a seating capacity of over 50,000.
Galatasaray SK
Galatasaray SK was founded in 1905 and also plays in the Süper Lig. Galatasaray has a long and storied history, having won numerous domestic and international titles. Galatasaray plays its home matches at the Türk Telekom Stadium, a modern stadium located in the Seyrantepe neighbourhood of Istanbul with a seating capacity of over 52,000.
Cagaloglu Hamam
This hamam was built in 1741 and is one of the oldest and most famous in Istanbul. You can experience the traditional Turkish bath ritual, which includes a sauna, a scrub and a massage. The hamam features a dome, marble floors, and intricate tile work, it’s a beautiful and relaxing place. The hamam also offers a variety of services, including traditional Turkish massages, body treatments, and a relaxation room. The Cagaloglu Hamam is not just a spa, it’s also a cultural experience as you will learn about the traditional Turkish bath and the Ottoman culture.
Spice bazaar
Also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, this bazaar is one of Istanbul’s most popular markets. It’s a colourful and vibrant place full of spices, herbs, teas, and other traditional Turkish products. The market is located in the Eminonu district of Istanbul, it’s a great place to walk around, to smell the spices, to taste the sweets, and to buy souvenirs. The Spice Bazaar is one of the oldest markets in Istanbul. It is a great place to experience the local culture, and to buy some of the famous Turkish spices and other traditional products.
Most Romantic Spot
The Prince’s Islands are located in the Sea of Marmara and can be reached by ferry. The islands offer a peaceful and secluded atmosphere, perfect for a romantic getaway. You can explore the small towns and villages, take a horse-drawn carriage ride, or simply relax on the beaches. There are also many seafood restaurants on the islands where couples can enjoy a romantic dinner with a view of the sea. The Prince’s Islands are a great option for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some quality time together.
Best Kept Secret
Balat is known for its charming streets, colourful houses and rich cultural heritage. Explore the many synagogues, churches, and mosques that dot the neighbourhood, as well as take a stroll through the vibrant marketplaces and sample traditional Turkish food. Balat is home to the Fener Greek Orthodox Patriarchate, one of the oldest and most important religious sites in Istanbul. With its rich history and authentic atmosphere, Balat is a great destination for those looking to get off the beaten path and experience a more local side of Istanbul.
ISTANBUL Food & Drink Scene
Istanbul is known for its rich gastronomy, it’s a melting pot of cultures and flavours. The city offers a wide variety of traditional Turkish dishes, as well as international cuisine. Some of the most popular Turkish dishes include kebab, dolma (stuffed grape leaves), baklava, and Turkish coffee. You will find a variety of seafood dishes, as Istanbul is located on the coast of the Bosphorus strait. Street food is very popular in Istanbul, try the famous Turkish street food such as simit (sesame-covered bread), roasted chestnuts and corn on the cob. The city is also home to many restaurants, from traditional to fine dining, visitors can find a wide range of cuisines and styles to suit all tastes and budgets.
Ayran
Ayran is a traditional Turkish drink made from yogurt, water and salt. It is a very popular and refreshing drink in Istanbul. It is often served as a side dish with meals, particularly with kebabs and also is a common drink during the hot summer months. Ayran is healthy and delicious and high in protein and low in calories. It’s a great alternative to sugary drinks. You will find it at most restaurants and street vendors.
Neolokal
The restaurant is known for its contemporary take on traditional Turkish cuisine, using local and seasonal ingredients. The menu features a variety of dishes that showcase the flavours and techniques of Turkish cuisine, but with a modern twist. Neolokal has been awarded a Michelin star, which is considered one of the highest culinary accolades in the industry. It’s definitely a must visit place for foodies who would like to experience both traditional and modern Turkish Cuisine.
Rooftop bar 16roof
This popular rooftop bar offers breath taking views of the city’s skyline, and is the perfect spot to enjoy a drink while taking in the sights. The bar serves a wide range of cocktails, beers, and wines, as well as a selection of light snacks. The atmosphere is chic and elegant, with comfortable seating and a relaxed vibe. It’s a perfect place to unwind and enjoy the beautiful views. It is especially popular during the summer months when the weather is warm and the sun sets over the city.
Bosphorus Brewing Company
The brewery produces a wide range of beers using locally sourced ingredients. They have a taproom on site where you can sample their beers and enjoy a pint or two. The brewery is known for its focus on quality and innovation, and their beers range from traditional styles like pilsners and ales to more experimental brews. They also have a selection of seasonal beers and limited edition brews. The taproom also serves a selection of food items which complement the beer. Bosphorus Brewing Company is a great place to visit for beer lovers and anyone looking for a unique and locally-sourced craft beer experience in Istanbul.
Top Nightlife Spots instanbul
Istanbul offers a vibrant nightlife scene, with something for everyone. The city is known for its lively clubs and bars, which range from intimate jazz clubs to large, multi-level clubs that host international DJs. Beyoglu is popular for nightlife, with its historic streets lined with bars, clubs and restaurants. The district of Taksim is also a lively spot, with a number of bars and clubs, as well as street performers and vendors. Istanbul has a variety of traditional entertainment options, such as belly dancing shows, live Turkish music, and the famous whirling dervishes. The city has a vibrant street culture, especially in summer, with many outdoor terraces, street vendors and musicians.
Cemal Resit Rey Concert hall
Also known as CRR Concert Hall it is one of the most important concert halls in Turkey and one of the best concert halls in Istanbul. It is home of the Istanbul State Symphony Orchestra, and regularly hosts performances by other orchestras, soloists and ensembles. The hall features excellent acoustics and state-of-the-art technical facilities, as well as a stunning architecture. The hall can seat up to 1600 people and is a popular venue for classical music concerts, as well as other cultural events such as ballet, opera, and theatre performances.
Volkswagen Arena
This multi-purpose indoor arena is primarily used for basketball and concert events, and is the home of the Turkish Basketball League team, Anadolu Efes S.K. The arena has a seating capacity of 14,000 people and it is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and technologies to ensure the best possible experience for the visitors. The Volkswagen Arena hosts a wide range of events including basketball games, concerts, shows and other cultural events.
Clubs Ulus 29
Ulus 29 is a luxury nightclub with an exclusive atmosphere and high-end clientele. The club features a spacious dance floor, a state-of-the-art lighting and sound system, and a VIP area for special guests. The club regularly hosts international DJs and live acts, and it is one of the best clubs in Istanbul for electronic music. The club also has a restaurant and outdoor terrace, which is popular for pre-parties and after-parties. Ulus 29 is not only a club but it’s also a lifestyle destination, where you can enjoy good music, food, and drinks while mingling with Istanbul’s elite crowd.
Istanbul tulip festival
This annual event takes place in April, celebrating the arrival of spring in the city. The festival features a variety of activities, including tulip gardens, exhibitions, and competitions. The main attraction of the festival is the tulip gardens, which are set up in various locations throughout the city, showcasing different varieties of tulips from around the world. You can stroll through the gardens and enjoy the colourful blooms. The Istanbul Tulip Festival is a great opportunity to see the city in a different light, and experience its natural beauty.
Getting around the city
Airports Istanbul
Istanbul Airport (IST) is the main international airport of Istanbul and is located on the European side of the city. It is the largest airport in Turkey and handles a large number of international flights from around the world. The airport is easily accessible by car, taxi, or public transportation, and it has a wide range of amenities, including shopping and dining options.
Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) is located on the Asian side of Istanbul and primarily handles domestic flights within Turkey. It is the second busiest airport in Istanbul and is also easily accessible by car, taxi, or public transportation. The airport has a wide range of amenities, including shopping and dining options.
Public transport
Istanbul has a comprehensive public transportation system that includes buses, metros, trams, ferries, and taxis. Istanbul has an extensive bus network that covers the city and connects it to surrounding areas. The buses are operated by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality and are a convenient and affordable way to get around the city. Istanbul has three metro lines that run through the city and connect it to surrounding areas. The metro is a fast and efficient way to get around the city, and it is relatively cheap compared to other modes of transportation.
Istanbul also has several tram lines that run through the city and connect it to surrounding areas. The trams are a convenient and affordable way to get around the city, and they offer a unique way to experience the city’s landmarks and neighbourhoods. Istanbul is located on the Bosphorus Strait, which separates Europe from Asia, and it is connected by several ferry lines. The ferries are a convenient and affordable way to get around the city, and they offer beautiful views of the city’s waterways.
Istanbul by bike
Istanbul is not known as a bike-friendly city, as biking on the streets can be challenging due to heavy traffic and lack of dedicated bike lanes. However, there are some places where it is possible to rent a bike and explore the city on two wheels. One option is to rent a bike from one of the many bike rental shops located around the city. Another option is to use one of the bike-sharing services that have recently been introduced to the city. These services allow you to rent a bike from a designated station and drop it off at another location.
Some popular bike-sharing services in Istanbul include Bizim Bisiklet and Call-a-Bike. If you choose to bike in Istanbul, it’s recommended to stick to the quieter streets and parks, and always wear a helmet. The city has a project called “Istanbul bike”, which is a bike-sharing system that allows the users to rent a bike and use it on designated bike lanes. The system was launched in 2019, and it’s expanding gradually. The system is available on mobile application and website.
Prepare for your city break to istanbul
Famous movies
The most famous movie that was shot in Istanbul is likely “Skyfall” (2012), which is the twenty-third James Bond film. The film features several iconic locations in Istanbul, including the Grand Bazaar, the Hagia Sophia, and the Basilica Cistern. Some of the iconic action scenes were also filmed in these locations, and it helped showcasing the city’s beauty and rich culture to a worldwide audience. Another movie that was shot in Istanbul and worth mentioning is “From Russia with Love” (1963), which is the second James Bond film. The film also features several iconic locations in Istanbul, including the Hagia Sophia, the Grand Bazaar and the Bosphorus Bridge. The movie was well received and it helped in promoting Istanbul as a tourist destination.
Best travel books
he currency in Istanbul, Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY). The current date and time in Istanbul is (January 24th,2023) 3:37 PM (UTC+3).
Time and money
he currency in Istanbul, Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY). The current date and time in Istanbul is (January 24th,2023) 3:37 PM (UTC+3).
The history of Istanbul
Istanbul is a city with a rich and complex history that spans more than 2,000 years. It has been an important cultural, economic, and political centre for many civilizations, including the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires. The city’s history can be traced back to the 7th century BC, when it was founded as Byzantium by Greek colonists. In the 4th century AD, it was renamed Constantinople and became the capital of the Roman Empire.
During this time, it was a major cultural and economic centre, and it became the centre of the Eastern Roman Empire after the fall of the Western Roman Empire. In the 11th century, Constantinople was conquered by the Byzantine Empire and became the capital of the Byzantine Empire. The city remained an important cultural and economic centre until it was conquered by the Ottoman Empire in 1453. During the Ottoman period, Istanbul became the capital of the Ottoman Empire and was known as the “gateway
between East and West.” It was a major hub of trade and cultural exchange, and it played a significant role in the spread of Islam throughout the world. Istanbul continued to be an important cultural and economic centre after the fall of the Ottoman Empire in 1923. Today, it is a vibrant city that is known for its rich history and culture, and it is a popular tourist destination.