A Global City - Istanbul
Istanbul, the most populous city in Türkiye, ranks 15th globally in terms of population. Home to people of various races and nationalities, Istanbul is a cosmopolitan city. Besides being a metropolitan hub, it also has a significant historical background. After being conquered from the Byzantines by Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, the city fell into enemy hands centuries later, only to be liberated by Mustafa Kemal Ataturk.
With its rich historical heritage and well-preserved structures, Istanbul holds a position of great importance. This city, with its geographical and historical significance, has always been a dream of many empires. Serving as a bridge between Europe and Asia, Istanbul has territories on both continents.
Known as the city "where the soil is gold," Istanbul has been a magnet for migration from all corners of the country for years. It is accessible through all means of transportation. Intercity bus companies operate almost continuous services to Istanbul, with buses departing every ten minutes. There are two major bus terminals on both the European and Anatolian sides. From these terminals, you can reach your destination by taxi, public transport, or by taking advantage of Istanbul car rental options.
Istanbul is served by two airports. The first is the newly opened Istanbul Airport, which has replaced Atatürk Airport. The second is Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport. Both airports offer direct flights throughout the day. At these locations, you can rent a car from one of the available car rental companies. By choosing the vehicle that suits your needs, you can enjoy your vacation to the fullest.
Alternatively, you can arrange a transfer service in advance, ensuring transportation from the airport to your accommodation. This way, you can comfortably reach your destination without the stress of navigating the city's heavy traffic.
Having served as the capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires for centuries, Istanbul showcases traces of these eras. You can enjoy a cup of tea in a Sarıyer tea garden while admiring the “Golden Horn” of the Bosphorus. Istanbul is adorned with palaces and mosques. Visit Byzantine structures like Hagia Sophia Mosque and St. Thomas Church, or explore Ottoman architectural gems such as Suleymaniye, Sultan Ahmet, and Fatih Mosques.
Hagia Sophia Museum Used as a church until the conquest of Istanbul, Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque by the order of Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror after the city’s capture. In the Republic era, it was turned into a museum, and today it serves again as a mosque. Its columns, intricate carvings, and icons make it a masterpiece of art.
Palaces: Topkapi, Beylerbeyi, Dolmabahce, Ciragan, and Yildiz Palaces add grandeur to Istanbul’s magnificence. Built during the reign of Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, Topkapi Palace served as the residence of all the sultans of the empire and is the largest palace in the city. Every room and area holds historical significance. When visiting these palaces, it is recommended to pay close attention and seek additional information.
Dolmabahce Palace holds a special place as the site where Ataturk, the founder of the Republic, spent his final moments. His room has been preserved in its original state.
Basilica Cistern: Constructed in the 6th century by Eastern Roman Emperor Justinian, the Basilica Cistern covers an area of 9,800 square meters and contains 28 columns. The cistern, with its special lighting and columns, is a must-visit site. Don’t miss the "weeping column," which remains moist unlike the others. Legend has it that this column was built as a memorial to the slaves who lost their lives during the construction. While most columns are cylindrical, two feature cornered designs and are known as the Medusa Heads, showcasing elements of Roman sculpture.
If you’re visiting Istanbul with your family, there are several attractions designed for children.
Miniaturk: A place featuring miniature models of significant structures, such as Topkapi Palace and the Mevlana Tomb, where children can learn about these landmarks.
Madame Tussauds Istanbul: Home to wax statues of 60 renowned figures, this museum offers a fascinating journey through history while providing interesting insights about these individuals.
Istanbul Toy Museum: Spanning three generations, this museum offers a unique perspective on human progress through the lens of toys. From the invention of the train to the industrial revolution, and the journey to the moon, you can witness these milestones via an incredible collection of toys.
The Princes’ Islands: For a serene escape from Istanbul’s hustle and bustle, you can visit the Princes’ Islands. Enjoy a peaceful day on Buyukada, Heybeliada, Burgazada, or Kinaliada, exploring by horse-drawn carriage or bicycle.
You can take advantage of Istanbul car rental services to explore every corner of this grand and beautiful city as you wish.
With its rich historical heritage and well-preserved structures, Istanbul holds a position of great importance. This city, with its geographical and historical significance, has always been a dream of many empires. Serving as a bridge between Europe and Asia, Istanbul has territories on both continents.
How to Get to Istanbul?
Known as the city "where the soil is gold," Istanbul has been a magnet for migration from all corners of the country for years. It is accessible through all means of transportation. Intercity bus companies operate almost continuous services to Istanbul, with buses departing every ten minutes. There are two major bus terminals on both the European and Anatolian sides. From these terminals, you can reach your destination by taxi, public transport, or by taking advantage of Istanbul car rental options.
Airports in Istanbul
Istanbul is served by two airports. The first is the newly opened Istanbul Airport, which has replaced Atatürk Airport. The second is Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport. Both airports offer direct flights throughout the day. At these locations, you can rent a car from one of the available car rental companies. By choosing the vehicle that suits your needs, you can enjoy your vacation to the fullest.
Alternatively, you can arrange a transfer service in advance, ensuring transportation from the airport to your accommodation. This way, you can comfortably reach your destination without the stress of navigating the city's heavy traffic.
Places to Visit in Istanbul
Having served as the capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires for centuries, Istanbul showcases traces of these eras. You can enjoy a cup of tea in a Sarıyer tea garden while admiring the “Golden Horn” of the Bosphorus. Istanbul is adorned with palaces and mosques. Visit Byzantine structures like Hagia Sophia Mosque and St. Thomas Church, or explore Ottoman architectural gems such as Suleymaniye, Sultan Ahmet, and Fatih Mosques.
Hagia Sophia Museum Used as a church until the conquest of Istanbul, Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque by the order of Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror after the city’s capture. In the Republic era, it was turned into a museum, and today it serves again as a mosque. Its columns, intricate carvings, and icons make it a masterpiece of art.
Palaces: Topkapi, Beylerbeyi, Dolmabahce, Ciragan, and Yildiz Palaces add grandeur to Istanbul’s magnificence. Built during the reign of Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, Topkapi Palace served as the residence of all the sultans of the empire and is the largest palace in the city. Every room and area holds historical significance. When visiting these palaces, it is recommended to pay close attention and seek additional information.
Dolmabahce Palace holds a special place as the site where Ataturk, the founder of the Republic, spent his final moments. His room has been preserved in its original state.
Basilica Cistern: Constructed in the 6th century by Eastern Roman Emperor Justinian, the Basilica Cistern covers an area of 9,800 square meters and contains 28 columns. The cistern, with its special lighting and columns, is a must-visit site. Don’t miss the "weeping column," which remains moist unlike the others. Legend has it that this column was built as a memorial to the slaves who lost their lives during the construction. While most columns are cylindrical, two feature cornered designs and are known as the Medusa Heads, showcasing elements of Roman sculpture.
Museums for Children
If you’re visiting Istanbul with your family, there are several attractions designed for children.
Miniaturk: A place featuring miniature models of significant structures, such as Topkapi Palace and the Mevlana Tomb, where children can learn about these landmarks.
Madame Tussauds Istanbul: Home to wax statues of 60 renowned figures, this museum offers a fascinating journey through history while providing interesting insights about these individuals.
Istanbul Toy Museum: Spanning three generations, this museum offers a unique perspective on human progress through the lens of toys. From the invention of the train to the industrial revolution, and the journey to the moon, you can witness these milestones via an incredible collection of toys.
The Princes’ Islands: For a serene escape from Istanbul’s hustle and bustle, you can visit the Princes’ Islands. Enjoy a peaceful day on Buyukada, Heybeliada, Burgazada, or Kinaliada, exploring by horse-drawn carriage or bicycle.
You can take advantage of Istanbul car rental services to explore every corner of this grand and beautiful city as you wish.
