The connection point between Europe and Asia, Istanbul is one of the unique cities that attracts the attention of the whole world. Its texture, history, culture; and with its architecture, it has made a name for itself for centuries. With all its beauties, it is a source of interest for domestic and foreign tourists.

The city that has hosted many civilizations, Anatolian Side and European Side. These two continents, separated by the Sea of Marmara, have had countless artifacts and textures throughout history. 

As Turkey's most modern and largest city, Istanbul is considered a metropolitan city. It hosts various programs in terms of culture, art and history. It is in the first place among the cities that constantly receive tourists from home and abroad. 

If you want to have a holiday in this unique city, which was the capital of the Ottoman and Roman Empires, you can find the best hotels at the most ideal prices on Otelz.com You can. 

How to Get to Istanbul?

Turkey's most developed big city, Istanbul, has direct flights departing from all airports. In addition to direct flights from domestic and international airports, it also operates reciprocal flights to many cities. 

There are direct flights to Istanbul not only by air, but also by road, rail and sea. Buses departing from all provinces in Turkey provide access to Istanbul in a short time.

You can provide transportation to Istanbul from Europe and many cities in the world by plane flights. Due to the metropolitan city feature, you can find tickets at any time. 

Air Transportation to Istanbul

Two different airports have been established for Istanbul flights. Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport and New Istanbul Airport is located on the European Side and the Anatolian Side. 

The airports that receive regular flights from every province of Turkey also host regular flights from many international airports around the world. 

Every day of the week, via airports in Turkey's provinces; Istanbul airports, where flights are organized, are also the meeting point for domestic transit flights to Turkey. 

Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport is located within the borders of Tuzla Province on the Anatolian Side. It has a location close to the centers. Istanbul Airport, on the other hand, was built within the borders of Arnavutky province on the European side. 

Alternatives such as taxi, bus and minibus have been developed to provide transportation within the city from both airports. Passengers landing at Istanbul Sabiha Emerging Airport and Istanbul Airport can depart from the Airport upon request; They can request a rental. 

Istanbul Highway Transportation

There are regular bus services to Istanbul via the bus stations in every province of Turkey. Preferring the highway as well as the airline increases the number of bus services in Istanbul travels. 

Istanbul buses, which are organized by many companies without interruption, provide arrival to Esenler Bus Terminal or Harem Bus Station. In addition, Alibeyköy Bus Station provides active service for European Side travels.

Depending on the desired destination, it is left to the preference of the passengers at which bus station to get off. Shuttle services are also provided by bus companies for passengers to easily access the cities. Istanbul metro, metrobus, IETT buses, Marmaray, minibuses and taxis also facilitate the transportation of passengers at the bus station. 

Istanbul Railway Transportation

People who want to travel to Istanbul by using the railway can buy tickets to Istanbul from all stations and online services in Turkey. All flights between the destination in Istanbul serve passengers uninterruptedly. 

Istanbul Sea Transportation

There is also the possibility of transportation to Istanbul by sea. Thanks to the ferry services organized by IDO and BUDO, journeys are made to the coastal cities around Istanbul. 

Which Season to Go to Istanbul in?

Istanbul, which receives tourists in all seasons and continues its activities non-stop, is suitable to be visited throughout the four seasons. People who plan to travel to Istanbul for touristic purposes should especially prefer the spring and autumn periods.

The city, whose temperature rises above 30 degrees during the summer months, feels very humid. In order to get away from the feeling of suffocation caused by the humidity and heat, Istanbul trips should be made during the spring and late business periods. However, for those who love the heat, the summer season in Istanbul is also very pleasant.

The city receives rain and snowfall during the winter months. Traveling can be difficult due to the cold. However, those who want to take a trip to Istanbul under the snow and enjoy the unique Bosphorus view can also spend quality time in snowy periods. 

The city accompanies a different beauty in every period. It is among the cities that are suitable for touristic visits throughout the four seasons. Known for its redbud flowers and tulips that bloom especially in spring, Istanbul encounters the most crowded tourist visits of the year in the spring months. 

Many events are held in summer and winter. Although it is cold in winter, it does not bother the cold too much. For this reason, it is suitable for visiting and visiting in all seasons. 

Istanbul City Transportation

A large part of the transportation in Istanbul is carried out by personal vehicles. However, you can easily reach the four corners of the city by public transport at any hour. In this way, it is easier to reach from one place to another.

In order to make transportation easier, especially between the European and Anatolian sides; different bridge is found. The Bosphorus offers transportation opportunities not only above the sea but also under the sea. Thanks to the Eurasia Tunnel, vehicles do not need to use bridges. The transportation between the two sides of the Marmara Sea becomes easier. 

Öspecial vehicleç and other public transportation vehicles, Istanbul Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, Istanbul 15 July Martyrs Bridge; and Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge; provides service. July 15 Martyrs Bridge; Metrobuses departing from it offer public transportation services between the two sides without encountering traffic problems. 

Thanks to the metro lines, which are surrounded by a wide network on both sides, people's journeys have been moved underground. The fact that the metro services provide access to all cities and has many stops accelerates the transportation of pedestrians. 

Metro lines, which are the most preferred transportation model in the city, are connected to each other by the Marmaray line. Passing under the Marmara Sea, Marmaray has been designed to operate in the direction of Halkalı and Gebze. 

Using IETT buses and minibuses, transportation is easily provided to points that metro and Marmaray services do not reach. Taxi and rental car Istanbul, which also has options, makes the travels of tourists easy and hassle-free. 

Popular Districts and Provinces of Istanbul

Istanbul, which is in the center of every province and stands out with its level of development, draws attention with different central points in all its provinces. The historical and popular cities within the borders of Istanbul are considered as the city's most popular tourist destinations.

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One of the historical districts of Istanbul, Eminön&a>, It is located within the borders of Fatih province. It is considered as the center of shopping in Istanbul. It is known for many districts such as Tahtakale. 

Eminence, which is frequently visited by local and foreign tourists as well as people from Istanbul, hosts the Historical Grand Bazaar and the Historical Egyptian Arch. Famous for its ancient history There are also many mosques and mausoleums in the region. Emin's reputation, which came to the fore with fish bread and pickles; Visitors should not pass by without buying pickle juice from the fish on the beach. 

Kadiköy

Anatolian Side, is one of the most crowded and densest cities of the region. What it looks like with its common garden and seaside view. Moda district on the coastline of the city has a unique view. 

There are Haydarpaşa Train Station and many historical places in the province. The region is also the last stop of the Anatolian Side metro. Also Karaköy, Beşiktaş and Eminönü provinces by taking the ferry to the pier on Kadıköy coast with ease.  

Islands 

Prince Islands, one of the most curious spots of Istanbul, has managed to preserve its historical texture until today. The Istanbul Islands, which can only be accessed by sea, are located on the Anatolian side. 

Transportation to Islands is provided by sea tours organized from points such as Kartal, Maltepe and Kadık. Heybeliada, Kınalıada and Magic takes its place among the Islands that host the highest number of tourists. 

Istiklal Caddesi – Beyoglu

One of the most famous districts of Istanbul, Beyoğlu comes to the fore with Istiklal Street. . The street, which has been open to the public since the 19th century, is among the most famous regions of Turkey. 

Istiklal Street is extremely popular with its shopping and cultural and art events. It is also famous for its historical church. People who want to book the most affordable hotels on trips to Istiklal Street can check out the hotels on Otelz.com. 

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Especially, it is home to historical structures such as Sultanahmet Square, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia Mosque and the Grand Arch. Fatih is considered as the most touristic point of Istanbul. 

Üsküdar

One of the most private cities of the Anatolian Side, Üsküdar, natural and historical beauty It is the junction point of the features. The province hosts numerous works and heritages of the Ottoman Period. It attracts attention with its coast directly overlooking the waters of the Bosphorus and Amlıca Hill.

Üsküdar is the indispensable stop of Anatolian Side tours. Maiden's Tower and Bosphorus Bridge; It is known for its coast that reveals its scenery. It is among the first places to be added to the itinerary for those who want to see historical buildings, mosques and many Ottoman artifacts.

Places to Visit in Istanbul

Istanbul, which is a favorite city in every sense with its historical structure, natural beauties and cultural activities, allows visitors to encounter a different beauty every day. 

The unique Bosphorus and the Historic Peninsula should be among the must-visit spots in Istanbul trips. 

Through Otelz.com, you can find the most affordable and ideal hotels for your Istanbul trips and get reservation information. 

Bosphorus of Istanbul 

It is one of the unique beauties that everyone who comes to Istanbul should see. It is famous around the world with its beauty. 

The Bosphorus, which is known for its 3 separate bridges, fisheries and stunning blue, is described as the most popular natural beauty of Istanbul. 

Maiden's Tower

The Maiden's Tower, which was built on a small islet located in the openings of Üsküdar Salacak, is directly visible from the Üuml;sküdar coast. MÖ Its history dating back to 24 BC makes it difficult to reach the information on when and by whom the Maiden's Tower was built. 

Maiden's Tower visits are organized with boats that take off from the beaches of Üsküdar, Salacak and Ortakoy. 

Çamlıca Hill

Ccedil;amlıca Hill, located in the district of Üsküdar, has been described as the meeting and viewing point of people for centuries. The hills, which are divided into two as Büyük Amlıca and Küçük Amlıca, are among the few places where the Bosphorus view and greenery are together. 

Ccedil;amlıca Hill, which is 4 km from the center of Üsküdar, is 260 meters high. There are different restaurants and cafes on the hill, which has open moon gardens and seating areas. 

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Historical Places of Istanbul

Istanbul, which is famous for its ancient history, manages to make a name for itself throughout the world with its structures remaining from many civilizations. 

Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace, located within the borders of Fatih Cankurtaran, was built by the order of Fatih Sultan Mehmet. Istanbul, which was the capital of the Ottoman Empire, and the entire empire were ruled over Topkapi Palace.

The building, which serves as a museum today, has a history of 600 years. 

Topkapi Palace, which can be visited in exchange for a museum card or by purchasing a ticket, is one of the must-sees for anyone visiting Istanbul. 

Galata Tower

The Galata Tower, located in the Beyoğlu province, was built in a romanesque architectural style. 

It is one of the oldest structures in Istanbul. It has been used for centuries as a watchtower. 

The Galata Tower, built during the Byzantine Empire, is one of the landmarks of Istanbul. 

Hagia Sophia Mosque

Hagia Sophia Mosque, which was transformed from a museum to a mosque in 2020, was built by the Byzantine Empire. 

After the conquest of Istanbul, the building, which was renamed Conqueror Mosque, is considered the greatest temple in its history.

Although the Hagia Sophia Mosque, located in Sultanahmet Square, was open to paid visits when it was a museum, the entrance was made free after it became a mosque. 

Sultanahmet Mosque

The Blue Mosque, located opposite the Hagia Sophia Mosque, was built by Ahmet I. 

The Blue Mosque, which has 6 minarets, is open for worship and visits. 

The mosque decorated with Iznik dens was built by Sedefkar Mehmet Ağa. 

Because the mosque has 6 minarets and a high dome, it seems more majestic than the Hagia Sophia Mosque. 

The Sultanahmet, which is described as the main mosque of Istanbul, is one of the places that receives the most tourists throughout the year. 

Popular Museums of Istanbul

Istanbul, which has come to the fore with its historical texture, preserves its cultural heritage with its advanced museums. Visitors who want to see Istanbul's historical heritage closely can visit popular museums. 

Istanbul Basilica Cistern Museum

The Basilica Cistern, one of the oldest structures in Istanbul, was built in 532 by the Byzantine Empire. Inside the Basilica Cistern, which was built to meet the water needs of the Byzantine palace and the surrounding people, there is the famous snake-headed Medusa statue. 

Istanbul Topkapi Palace Museum

Topkapi Palace, located within the borders of the Historical Peninsula, has been made open to visits as a museum. In the Topkapı Palace Museum, which consists of open and closed areas, the opportunity to enter certain parts of the palace is offered. 

Istanbul Panorama 1453 History Museum 

The only top in the world; Panorama History Museum, which is considered as a closed panoramic museum, is about the 1453 Conquest of Istanbul. The history museum, supported by 3D panoramic photographs and real materials; the sky of the closed dome; It draws attention with its design. 

What to Eat in Istanbul?

Host to countless cultures for centuries, Istanbul draws attention especially with its street food. Istanbul Cuisine, which emerged with the combination of many cultures, offers meat and seafood together.

Istanbul is the face of taste lovers with its rich alternatives in terms of food and beverage options. laughs. You can have a tour full of flavor at every moment in Istanbul, where you can find dozens of options from street delicacies to luxury restaurants. You can eat doner kebabs on almost every street corner, buy bagels from peddlers, enjoy fish and bread on the beach in Karak, or make a reservation for an elegant dinner at a restaurant with a Bosphorus view.

It is possible to find foods suitable for every palate in Istanbul, thanks to the places that offer many different tastes from the world and Ottoman palace cuisine. You can also find many fish restaurants in Istanbul. Especially the Galata Bridge; The fish restaurants nearby and in Yeniköy are ideal for seafood lovers. You can also try successful restaurants that offer examples from world cuisines for different tastes.

Simit 

Istanbul simit is one of the most popular street flavors of the city. It is one of the items that is the symbol of Istanbul. Unique to Istanbul The street bagel, which is famous for its crispness and crispness, stands out.

All visitors to Istanbul should try the moon and simit duo, which are indispensable for ferry trips. 

Kumpir

The most famous flavor of Istanbul Ortakoy district, kumpir is one of the symbols of Istanbul. It is obtained by adding side dishes that appeal to every palate into the baked buttered potatoes. 

Fish Bread

Fish bread that you can find in districts such as Emin, Karaköy, Beşiktaş and Uuml;sküdar, especially Emin's; It is among the flavors that should be preferred during their visits. 

Shopping in Istanbul

Istanbul is also an ideal travel route for shopping enthusiasts. One of the symbols of Istanbul, the Grand Bazaar is the first of the popular shopping spots. You can find many different types of items, from clothing to jewelry, from food to souvenirs, in the Covered Aisle, where there is a historical atmosphere.

Istiklal Street, located in Beyoğlu, is one of the first places to be visited by those who want to shop in Istanbul. This world famous; On the street, you can find different stores suitable for all sizes, and you can shop from the boutiques in the historical passages.

Istanbul offers options that will also make luxury shopping lovers happy. Bagdat Street and World famous in Nisantasi; You can visit the stores of the brands. Many shopping malls in the city are also places where you can shop and have a good time.

Events in Istanbul

Istanbul, which is a cultural capital; It also offers a very satisfying selection of cultural, artistic and sporting events. During your Istanbul trip, you can go to the plays performed by state and city theaters, and you can find the opportunity to watch the plays of the private theaters, which are quite numerous.

Istanbul also has a colorful agenda for music lovers. Many event venues, especially in Kadıköy and Taksim, host entertaining concerts on weekends. World famous; The stars also make the city famous in summer. He meets his audience on stage. 

Istanbul also pleases its visitors in terms of nightlife. During your stay in the city, you can discover nightclubs in Ortakoy area, bars in Karaköy and entertainment venues in Beyoğlu.

Another special event that draws attention in Istanbul is the open-air concerts and festivals held in the summer. If your trip is in the summer months, you can attend the Istanbul Jazz Festival, one of the most famous of these festivals.