Things to Do in Istanbul

Istanbul is the only city in the world that straddles two continents — Europe and Asia, separated by the Bosphorus strait. Former capital of the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires, the city layers 2,500 years of history into a modern metropolis of 16 million people. The Sultanahmet district (Old City) concentrates the must-see monuments: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar. The Asian side (Kadikoy, Uskudar) offers a more local, residential experience. Turkish cuisine is among the world's greatest. Peak season is April through October.

Top Experiences

Hagia Sophia — built as a church in 537 AD, converted to a mosque, then museum, now mosque again. Grand Bazaar — one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets (4,000+ shops). Bosphorus cruise for skyline views from the water. Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque) for Ottoman architecture. Topkapi Palace (Ottoman sultans' residence). Turkish hammam experience at Cagaloglu or Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan. Basilica Cistern underground. Kadikoy food market on the Asian side.

Getting Around

Istanbulkart (transit card) works on metro, tram, bus, and ferry ($0.50-1 per ride). The T1 tram runs through the Old City. Ferries cross the Bosphorus frequently. Taxis are cheap but meters can be manipulated — use BiTaksi app. Traffic is severe — use transit.