Immerse yourself in the heart and soul of the city that crosses two continents. Visit off the beaten track locations, explore the maze of local streets, see Istanbul’s top attractions such as Ayasofya, Basilica Cistern, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome Area and Grand Bazaar. Explore a series of trip ideas that include Istanbul as a destination not to be missed.
Istanbul is a world center of great importance in the past and present. The city embraces Asia on the one hand and Europe on the other. Istanbul is Turkey's most famous city and its cultural and financial center. Located on both sides of the Bosphorus, the narrow strait between the Black Sea and the Marmara Sea, Istanbul bridges Asia and Europe both physically and culturally. With its historical peninsula, numerous scenic and historical sites, Istanbul is a magnificently unique city that has been the capital to many civilizations from past to present and continues to be home to residents from all over the world. Istanbul's population is making it one of the largest cities in Europe and the world.