Istanbul Districts Guide

The only city worldwide that remains in both Asia and Europe, Istanbul also straddles the ancient and modern worlds.

The very best way to experience Istanbul is to enable unscheduled roaming in between check outs to historical sites and museums. Rise early enough to partake of the renowned Turkish breakfast. And ride the ferryboats, frequently. They're not just a method to get from here to there; on a ferryboat you can rest feet weary from sightseeing, beverage tea, or consume a grilled-cheese sandwich and take in the best views of throughout the city.

The ghosts of marauding Crusaders and marching janissaries haunt the city's historic alleys-- however this is no museum: the Bosporus is still a buzzing artery traveling in turkey for maritime trade, and the sounds of structure construction play a constant counterpoint to the shouts of street hawkers and the call of the muezzin. There are several reasons visitors return consistently: the setting is exceptional, ideal on the Sea of Marmara and astride the busy Bosporus Strait. And Istanbul's horizon is a spectacular mélange of domes, minarets, middle ages towers, and office complex looming over low-rise residential structures.

Today the cultural and financial center of Turkey, Istanbul has actually been the capital of three empires-- Byzantine, Roman, and Ottoman. Our Istanbul travel guide integrates the best of Istanbul old and brand-new.