No city in the world can be said to straddle two continents, except for Istanbul. This imposing city with 15 million inhabitants, washed by the mighty Bosphorus from the east, and the Sea of Marmara from the south, represents the fearless capital of the former Eastern Roman Empire, then the Ottoman Empire, and later the state of Turkey. The city also includes groups of islands in the Sea of Marmara, which are better known as the Prince's Islands. As it spans two continents, the city itself can be divided into old Istanbul, which is located in the Asian part, and modern Istanbul, which belongs to Europe.
Discover what is nearby, all attractions, sights and museums , shopping zones, parks and restaurants in Istanbul.
Istanbul is an old city with rich cultural heritage and it will take more then a few days to visit all beautiful places. Sultanahmet, for example, represents the historical and tourist face of Istanbul, where many ancient historical and cultural treasures gather. This part of the city is one of the most beautiful places in Istanbul, an archaeological and tourist area, with many mosques, churches, restaurants, gardens and museums. On this page you will find the complete list of all attractions in Istanbul that you do not want to miss.
Numerous museums in Istanbul are definitely worth a visit. If you only take into consideration that Istanbul is several thousand years old then it is not hard to immagine how rich cultural heritage this city actually has. Here you will find a list of the best museum to visit in Istanbul. You will find all details about the museums as well as ticket prices, working hours of each museum and their locations so that you can plan your visit.
Turks have always been interested in parks and gardens, and why shouldn't they when the climate in Turkey is suitable for growing beautiful flowers and plants. This can also be a consequence of the nomadic culture of the tribes that moved to this area after the fall of the Eastern Roman Empire. There are undoubtedly fascinating parks and gardens in various locations in Istanbul today. Many are located in the city center, and they represent oases of peace that will make you feel like you have left Istanbul and its crowded streets. This page shows the best parks in Istanbul that we would recommend you to visit. Enjoy!
Although Istanbul is thought to have been inhabited as early as 3000 BC, it was not a city until Greek colonists from Megara arrived in the area in the 7th century BC. Megara was led by King Byzas and settled there because of its strategic location along the Bosporus. This is the reason why the city got its name Byzantion. In 196 there was a civil war when Byzantium was besieged by Septimus Severus. In that war, the city suffered great damage, but after coming to power, Septim completely rebuilt Byzantium. In the 300s, Byzantium became part of the Roman Empire.
No city in the world can be said to straddle two continents, except for Istanbul. This imposing city with 15 million inhabitants, washed by the mighty Bosphorus from the east, and the Sea of Marmara from the south, represents the fearless capital of the former Eastern Roman Empire, then the Ottoman Empire, and later the state of Turkey. The city also includes groups of islands in the Sea of Marmara, which are better known as the Prince's Islands. As it spans two continents, the city itself can be divided into old Istanbul, which is located in the Asian part, and modern Istanbul, which belongs to Europe.
