The city that bridges two continents, layered with empires and alive with colour.
Istanbul straddles Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus strait, the only city in the world to span two continents. As capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, it is layered with more than fifteen centuries of history.
Grand mosques, palaces and bazaars sit alongside a thriving modern city of ferries, waterfront neighbourhoods and world-class food. Its historic peninsula is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Centuries of empire in one skyline — these are the landmarks not to miss.
A soaring 6th-century marvel that has been a cathedral, a mosque and a museum across its long history.
The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, famous for its six minarets and thousands of blue İznik tiles.
The opulent former residence of Ottoman sultans, overlooking the Bosphorus and Golden Horn.
One of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, with thousands of shops along its lanes.
A classic boat trip along the strait, gliding past palaces, fortresses and waterside mansions.
An atmospheric underground Byzantine cistern of columns, arches and the famous Medusa heads.
Istanbul has warm summers, cool winters and changeable weather in between. It is a year-round city, but the shoulder seasons are the most pleasant for walking and sightseeing.
April to May and September to October bring mild temperatures and clear skies — ideal for combining historic sites with a Bosphorus cruise.
Istanbul
Istanbul
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