Istanbul is not a city like all rest: situated on two continents - Europe and Asia, with a population of over 14 million and so many historical places of interest, Istanbul is an incredibly beautiful and unique city.
Bearing the spirit and elements of the Byzantine, Roman, Ottoman and contemporary Turkish civilization, Istanbul has been a center of great cultural heritage for centuries. Apart from the main historical and religious sights, the city hosts numerous contemporary museums, art galleries and music stages. The creative spirit and energy on the streets of Istanbul can be sensed quite clearly.
However, Istanbul is also a city of great contrasts – from huge and fabulous malls satisfying every whim, to traditional and ordinary street markets.
Yet the sea definitely offers the most splendid view in Istanbul. Located between four different water ways, Istanbul is literally surrounded by water, which makes it a perfect place for a trip by boat or ship. Whenever you wish to go from Europe to Asia, you can do that by a cruise through the Golden Horn or the Bosphorus to the Black Sea, to visit the Prince Islands or the nearby city of Bursa located at the coastline of the Sea of Marmara, which is another wonderful way to get to know the city.
Wondering where to go? Sultanahmet lies in the historical heart of the city, on Eminönü peninsula which is a key tourist region, and you must visit Hagia Sofia, the Blue Mosque and the Hippodrome.
Opposite to Eminönü, on the Golden Horn, is located the modern entertainment center of Istanbul - Beyoğlu, and on the other side of the Bosphorus is the less visited by tourists, yet also beautiful, Asian part of the city.