Istanbul skyline view — top attractions and sightseeing

Istanbul Travel Guide

Turkey

About Istanbul

Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey, constituting the country's economic, cultural, and historical center. With a population of over 15 million, it is home to 18% of the population of Turkey. Istanbul is among the largest cities in Europe and in the world by population. It is a city on two continents; about two-thirds of its population live in Europe and the rest in Asia. Istanbul straddles the Bosphorus – one of the world's busiest waterways – in northwestern Turkey, between the Sea of Marmara and the Black Sea.

Best time to visit: March, April, May. Language: Turkish. Currency: TRY.

Learn more about Istanbul on Wikipedia.

Top Attractions in Istanbul

From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, Istanbul offers world-class sightseeing. Whether you're exploring cultural heritage, dining, or capturing the city skyline, there's something for every traveler. Use our map below to plan your visit and discover the best things to do in Istanbul.

Map of Istanbul