İstanbul

About this tour

Istanbul is the country’s largest city and serves as its economic, cultural, and historical hub. Istanbul is situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, spanning the Bosporus Strait, which separates the European and Asian continents.

The city has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. It was first founded as Byzantium in the 7th century BC and later became Constantinople, the capital of the Byzantine Empire. In 1453, it was conquered by the Ottoman Empire and served as the capital of the Ottoman Empire until its dissolution in 1922.

Today, Istanbul is a vibrant metropolis with a population of over 15 million people. It is known for its stunning architecture, including iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. The city also boasts a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences, with a mix of modern skyscrapers and ancient structures.

Istanbul is famous for its bustling markets, such as the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar, where visitors can find a wide variety of goods, including spices, textiles, jewelry, and traditional Turkish crafts. The city is also renowned for its delicious cuisine, which blends Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Central Asian flavors.