Istanbul – City information

Istanbul is one of the biggest cities in Turkey and Europe and was the capital of various empires throughout history.

With approximately 11 million people the city ranks sixth among the world’s most crowded cities. As regards annual production, Istanbul ranks thirtyfourth worldwide with 133 million dollars and is thus the financial and cultural center of Turkey. Istanbul is a unique city featuring two metropolises both in Asia and Europe.

Istanbul is a popular tourist city featuring numerous monuments and, of course, the Bosphorus. The largest share among tourists belongs to the Germans, followed by the Russians, Americans, Italians and French. In 2011 , just under 9 million tourists visited the city.

Weather

Because of Istanbul’s location between the Black Sea and Mediterrenean Sea, the city has a moderate climate.

Tourist Places

City Walls, Dolmabahçe Palace, Golden Horn, Beylerbeyi Palace, Topkapı Palace, Yıldız Palace, Çırağan Palace, Galata Tower, Taksim Square, Sultanahmet Square, Beyazıt Square, Kapalıçarşı Grand Bazar.

Restaurants & Cafés

Istanbul has a huge variety of different and excellent cuisines. The city’s most famous pubs, bars, and restaurants are located around Istiklal Avenue. Istiklal Avenue (Taksim area) is the hot spot of the European side of Istanbul. It is the place where young and old come together, where one finds restaurants and bars.

Istanbul provides many famous and very delicious fish restaurants. The most popular ones can be found along the Bosporus River and at the south side of Marmara Sea.

Entertainment

Istanbul becomes more important cultural city day by day. The city selected as European Capital of Culture in 2010.

Known as “Historical Peninsula” region it has numerous of theatres, cinemas, art galleries, and museums.