Overview of the State

Byzas, who set out from Megara in Greece, wants to establish a new state. He goes and consults the Delphi Oracle about the place. The oracle says that he will establish his state "across the Land of the Blind." While Byzas was wandering around confused, looking at today's Chalcedon (Kadıköy) from today's Sarayburnu, he said, "Why did these blind people build their state on that barren place while this beautiful place stood still?" he thinks. And, of course, the words of the Delphi Oracle come to mind.

On the other hand, the name Istanbul was not given to the state by the Ottomans, as is believed. It is older. It is introduced as a human name in a piece of literature called Fütuh'üş-Şam in the 9th century. Istanbul, the son of Greek Meliki Timaoş, worked for the state's construction during his four-year reign. But Constantine, who replaces the state, completes and names it. It is mentioned as Istinbolin in the 10th-century book Tenbih (Mesudi). In addition, Istanbul has been called numerous names such as Byzantion, Constantinople, Konstantiniyye, Asitane, Darülhilafe, and Dersaadet for thousands of years.

Istanbul Through History

Byzantium, Constantinople, and Istanbul. These three magic names symbolize the magnificent history of Istanbul. Few cities in the world are this special and exciting to explore. Istanbul has been ruled by 120 kaisers and emperors throughout history and has hosted the three great civilizations mentioned above.

Given its historical depth, finding numerous cultural elements throughout the city is inevitable. Istanbul fascinates its visitors with its magnificent natural beauties and geolocation that unites the Asian and European continents. The Bosphorus-Istanbul Strait will affect you profoundly. When the outstanding natural beauties of Istanbul are added to the historical monuments of the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empire, a magnificent picture reflects itself all over the city.

The places to visit in the state are also unlimited. The most impressive places in Istanbul that first stand out are the Historical Peninsula and the Bosphorus. Visiting the Historical Peninsula, which contains historical places such as Topkapı Palace, Hagia Sophia, and Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Basilica Cistern, and the impressive Bosphorus tour, which starts from Eminönü Galata Bridge and continues to Anadolu Kavağı, are among the must-do activities for the city's visitors. Your state tour would not be complete without a traditional and unforgettable sea cruise by ferry or boat on the Bosphorus, separating Europe and Asia.

Istanbul's nightlife is different. First of all, Taksim, Istiklal Street, and Tünel line contain the most important venues of Istanbul nights. We can say that art and cultural activities are unlimited in Istanbul.

Together with the Republic, Istanbul's 2500-year capital period ended on October 29, 1923. However, from this date on, it will take decisive and steady steps towards becoming the most populated, economically, and culturally visited city in the world.

Taking its share of Turkey's modernization adventure with its young population, Istanbul has become a state that has been integrated into the world in many areas today. 

Districts of Istanbul

Turkey's most visited city naturally is Istanbul; because it has a vibrant history in terms of historic streets, squares, museums, parks, picnic areas, surrounding islands, and entertainment places to visit. Istanbul is a state where you will have a great time with its tram, entertainment venues, churches, and passages.

• Besiktas: It is a famous district for tourists with its pier and mansions.

• Ortakoy: It is a district with many cultures. It is fascinating to watch the scenery formed by the lights of the Bosphorus in the evening.

• Sultanahmet: It is a place that gives cultural pleasure with its mosque, inns, madrasah, churches and markets, and historical areas.

• Fatih: It is the district that forms the center of Istanbul, such as the municipality, the governor's office, the police department, the tax office.

• Kuzguncuk: It is one of the districts that best describes the history of Istanbul. How about a fun tour where you can take great photos with its narrow streets, mosques, and mansions? 

• Balat: It houses traces of Ottoman history on its streets. Especially the Stephen Church, the Fener Greek Patriarchate, the Red School, the cafes, and the narrow streets attract attention. 

• Bakirkoy: It is one of the only places decorated with historical places and modern culture today. Yenikapı Mevlevi Lodge and Medicinal Plants Garden are among the places to visit. 

• Kadikoy: It is the only district of Istanbul that has beaches with beautiful air with boutique bars and cafes.

• Uskudar: It is a transition point to the Anatolian side. It has unique places such as Maiden's Tower and Fethi Pasha Grove that you cannot get enough of.

Apart from the fact that Istanbul is the most visited city in Turkey, its history arouses great curiosity and excitement.

Istanbul is located in an accessible location in terms of transportation. It is possible to reach by sea and airways, apart from land transportation. There are regular bus services to Istanbul from metropolitan cities such as Ankara, Izmir, Bursa, and Antalya. For Istanbul Seaway transportation, there are regular ferry services from Bursa and ferry services from Mudanya Burgaz pier, and ferry services from Yalova from Topçular Pier. You can use Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gökçen Airport for your Istanbul Airway transportation.