Istanbul information

Istanbul (İstanbul, historically Byzantium and later Constantinople; see Names of Istanbul) is Turkey's most populous city, and its cultural and financial center. The city covers 25 districts of the Istanbul province. It is located on the Bosphorus Strait, and encompasses the natural harbor known as the Golden Horn, in the northwest of the country. It extends both on the European (Thrace) and on the Asian (Anatolia) side of the Bosphorus, and is thereby the only metropolis in the world which is situated on two continents. In its long history, Istanbul served as the capital city of the Roman Empire (330-395), the Byzantine Empire (395-1204 and 1261-1453), the Latin Empire (1204-1261), and the Ottoman Empire (1453-1922). The city was chosen as joint European Capital of Culture for 2010. The historic areas of Istanbul were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1985. (...) more....

Istanbul travel guide by

Istanbul is a place that can be visited all-year long. But of course, certain times are better than others: Spring and fall offer mild weather and less tourists than the hot and dry summers - where many locals are also on vacation along the Turkish coasts.

Istanbul travel guide last edited by philipp

Istanbul has two airports, the international one (IST) on the European side, and the regional one (Sabiha Gokcen) on the Asian. The former is your likely entry point, and the later is an ideal leaving point to various beach destinations. The bus service in Turkey is exquisite and the perfect way for short trips to near cities. But for the inner city use Dolmus (mini buses): they are convenient and a nice experience.

Istanbul travel guide last edited by philipp

Istanbul can be rather expensive, at least in comparison to other areas of Turkey. Going out for dinner in the main tourist areas will cost you more than the average European or North American city. Cultural activities, and means of transportation are usually cheap.

Istanbul travel guide last edited by philipp

Istanbul is the only city in the world extending over two continents. At its heart lies the Bosphorus, and much of the cultural life revolves around it. There are 25 districts in the Istanbul province, almost evenly spread over the Asian and the European side.

Istanbul travel guide last edited by philipp

Istanbul is also a culinary capital. Don't leave it without enjoying meze (the rich Turkich selection of appetizers), and Raki, the beloved Turkish anise schnapps. Long dinners are best enjoyed at Meyhanes (the Turkish form of a tavern)! At the Bosphorus, just try fish from the various street vendors. You can't go wrong!

Istanbul travel guide last edited by philipp

"Crossing the bridge – The sound of Istanbul" is an excellent movie that documents the music scene of the city. The soundtrack is also highly recommended.
Nobel laureate Orhan Pamuk's memoir "Istanbul" covers the city during different periods of time, and hits the city's verve.

Istanbul travel guide last edited by philipp

Istanbul is a bustling metropolitan area, just do as you would in other European cities. Traffic (and drivers) can be awful though, so always watch out for cars, no matter whether on the streets or the pavements.

Istanbul travel guide last edited by philipp

Istanbul is the second biggest city in Europe, so pay attention to your belongings as you would do in other big cities. But generally, Istanbul is a safe city, comparable to other main European cities. Watch out for cab drivers: They have a reputation for overcharging! Just insist on using the meter before the taxi takes off.

Istanbul travel guide last edited by philipp

Unfortunately, we don't have much English information about Istanbul, but we have more information in other languages German, French, Italian, Spanish. Here is the automatic translation by Google:

According to a doctor, you better ask the hotel or the tourist office. Pharmacies (eczane) are generally well sorted. Vaccinations are not required prior to travel. German Hospital (Alman Hastanesi): Sıraselviler Caddesi 119 (Taksim), phone 293 21 50 Austrian hospitals (Avusturya Hastanesi): Bereketzade Medresesi Sokak 7 (Karaköy), phone 243 25 90

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Istanbul travel guide last edited by google-translate