Istanbul Travel Guide E-Book

Captivating Travels

• Herausgeber: Captivating Travels
• Kategorie: Lebensstil
• Sprache: Englisch

Seitenzahl: 190

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2025

Beschreibung

Unlock Istanbul's Secrets: Maps, Stunning Pictures, and Easy QR Codes for a Seamless Adventure Packed with  70+ stunning images and maps and  40+ QR codes, this guide makes exploring Istanbul effortless and unforgettable. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this book provides everything you need to uncover the city's Byzantine wonders, Ottoman splendor, and hidden gems. Stop searching through endless guidebooks!  This guide offers more than just tourist hotspots—it's your key to understanding Istanbul's rich history, local culture, and unique charm.    What's Inside:  - Explore Istanbul's Culture and History: Dive into the city's captivating past and learn how to navigate it like a local.  - Master Airport Navigation: Seamlessly manage your journey through Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) with detailed tips.  - Discover Iconic European Landmarks: Visit must-see districts like Sultanahmet, Eminönü, and Fatih, home to world-renowned sites like the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace.  - Experience the Asian Side's Charm: Wander through Kadıköy and Üsküdar, or enjoy the scenic beauty of the Princes' Islands.  - Curated Itineraries: Choose from thematic trips tailored to foodies, history buffs, or adventure seekers, with ready-to-use plans for 3, 4, or 5 days.  - Day Trips Beyond the City: Explore mesmerizing spots just a few hours away, such as Bursa, Edirne, and Sapanca.  - Easy Turkish Survival Phrases: Learn key phrases to shop, dine, and explore confidently.   Why This Guide Is Essential:  - Maps: Navigate every corner of Istanbul with ease.  - Stunning Pictures: Visualize your destinations before you arrive.  - 40+ QR Codes: Instantly access directions, schedules, and additional resources to simplify your trip.    Click "Add to Cart" and let this guide lead you to the trip of a lifetime. With this book in hand, Istanbul will feel like a home away from home.

Leseprobe

Istanbul Travel Guide

Captivating Adventures Through Ottoman Splendor, Byzantine Wonders, Turkish Landmarks, Hidden Gems, and More

Table of Contents

Title Page

Istanbul Travel Guide

Introduction

Chapter 1: Get to Know Istanbul

Chapter 2: To and From the Airport

Chapter 3: The European Side

Chapter 4: The Asian Side

Chapter 5: The Princes Islands

Chapter 6: Tourist Hotspots: Kadikoy and Uskudar

Chapter 7: Tourist Hotspots: Beyoğlu, Fatih, Şişli and Beşiktaş

Chapter 8: Itineraries and Programs

Chapter 9: Day Trips Beyond the City

Bonus Chapter: Useful Survival Phrases

Conclusion

Appendix

References

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Please note the information contained within this document is for educational and entertainment purposes only. All effort has been executed to present accurate, up-to-date, reliable, and complete information. No warranties of any kind are declared or implied. Readers acknowledge that the author is not engaging in the rendering of legal, financial, medical, or professional advice. The content within this book has been derived from various sources. Please consult a licensed professional before attempting any techniques outlined in this book.

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Introduction

Istanbul is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Millions of tourists worldwide visit the city every year to explore its colorful and fascinating districts and neighborhoods. It is a blend of the past and present. Istanbul’s history is reflected in its ancient monuments and architecture that tell the story of a city that has survived multiple destructions and managed to stand tall until it became one of the most influential cities in the world. If you are looking for a place to explore, you will find everything you are looking for and more in Istanbul.

Regions in chapters.

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Istanbul-map-blank.svg

This book provides all the information you need before your journey. It is ideal for first-time travelers and easy to understand. You won’t need to look for any other resources.

It starts with a detailed introduction to Istanbul. You will learn about its history, location, and association with many ancient empires. You will also learn about Istanbulites’ life, traditions, and customs. You will also learn about the city’s main airports and transportation options.

The book then takes you to explore all the popular regions in Istanbul. You will begin with the city’s European side and its most beautiful districts like Sultanahmet, Bakırköy, Ortaköy, Nişantaşı, Eyüp Sultan, and Sarıyer. You will then head to the Eastern side, called the “Asian side,” and discover its magnificent districts like Beykoz, Pendik, Sancaktepe, Maltepe, and Ataşehir.

You will then take a tour of the breathtaking Prince Islands and explore its peaceful and interesting districts like Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada, and Kınalıada.

Next, add the tourist hotspots in the Asian and European sections and all the famous landmarks and locations in Kadıköy, Üsküdar, Beyoğlu, Beşiktaş, Fatih, and Şişli.

Each district mentioned includes its historical background, fun facts, main attractions, transportation, fun experiences, family activities, restaurants, popular stores, an entertainment section, sports and leisure, and accommodations.

You don’t have to waste time preparing itineraries for your journey. You will find multiple thematic or traveler-oriented programs in every district to enjoy your vacation and explore everything the city offers in the suggested itineraries towards the end of the book.

It isn’t just Istanbul worth visiting. There are exciting destinations just a couple of hours away from the city that you shouldn’t miss. You will discover places like Edirne, Bursa, Princes’ Islands, Sapanca and Maşukiye, and İznik.

One of the main challenges tourists face when visiting a new country is the language barrier. You will find many Turkish phrases and their meaning to communicate easily with the locals and make new friends.

Now, head to the first chapter and start your journey.

Chapter 1: Get to Know Istanbul

If you Google the most popular tourist destinations worldwide, you will find Istanbul on every list. About 17 million people visit the city annually, many of whom return as they can’t get enough of Turkey’s gem. With its long history, famous landmarks, rich culture, tasty cuisine, and popular nightlife, Istanbul has everything to satisfy your wanderlust.

Istanbul map.

See page for author, CC BY 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Istanbul_location_districts.svg

Istanbul is a mix of the old and new. You will be transported back in time as you explore its ancient monuments. The city that has witnessed the rise and fall of many empires will speak to you and tell you its incredible story. You will also be amazed by its culture and modern lifestyle. Istanbul is a blend of the East and the West, a timeless city that is impossible to define or sum up in a few words.

This chapter takes you on a journey in this enchanting city to see why it’s on many people’s bucket lists.

​Istanbul’s Strategic Geographical Location

Istanbul’s strategic geographical location is one of the many characteristics that make it Turkey’s most famous city. It is one of the few cities in the world that is a part of Asia and Europe. The eastern part is in Asia, and the western is in Europe, and it acts as a bridge between the two continents. Istanbul is divided by the famous Bosporus Strait, which is 19 miles (30 kilometers) long and connects the north’s Black Sea to the south’s Sea of Marmara. It is also a seaport, the closest European city to Asia and the closest Asian city to Europe.

When the Romans ruled, they built the city on seven hills to mimic other Roman cities. Just like in Rome, the city walls surrounded the hills.

Thanks to Istanbul’s strategic location, the city was the region’s main trade route linking the Mediterranean Basin, the Balkans, the Russian steppe, the Caucasus, the Horn of Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, Iran, and Europe. Venice was also a central trading route at the time. Although the two cities traded, they were mainly rivals and enemies.

Trading ships sailed from the Black Sea to the Mediterranean Sea. Horse and camel caravans often took routes stretching from Europe to the Anatolian Plateau, heading east, south, and north.

Istanbul’s location made it the envy of Europe and the Middle East. Many countries’ leaders recognized its unique position. They wanted to control the city, leading to wars and crusades that have impacted Istanbul to this day.

Fun Fact:

​The Bosporus Strait is associated with an interesting legend. A beautiful woman called Io was having an affair with the Greek God Zeus. Zeus was afraid that his wife Hera would find out and kill his lover, so he turned her into a cow. However, Hera discovered her husband’s betrayal and stung Io with a horsefly. Io crashed away, leaving behind the Bosporus Strait, which means “The passage of the cow.”

Istanbul’s Distinctive Districts and Neighborhoods

Istanbul is Turkey’s largest city, with 39 districts. Until recently, there were only 32 districts. However, its growing population led to urban restructuring, and additional districts were created.

Istanbul’s History

Istanbul is one of the world’s most ancient cities and has a long and rich history. It was a part of many empires that rose and fell. Interestingly, the city wasn’t always called Istanbul and has undergone multiple name changes throughout its history.

Byzantium

Early settlers inhabited Istanbul in 2 BC and lived in the Asian section. However, it wasn’t a city back then. In 7 BCE, Greek King Byzas and his colonists arrived in the Bosporus region. They were fascinated by its location and decided to establish a colony and settle there. Byzas knew that this region would prosper one day because his oracle Delphi told him to go to the land of the blind. This unusual description of ancient Istanbul was due to Byzas believing that early settlers were too blind to overlook a region with such a strategic and magnificent location. Byzas was so fond of it that he named it after himself, Byzantium.

In the 5th century, Persians invaded Byzantium and destroyed it. In 479 B.C., Spartan general Pausanias reconstructed it and returned it to its former glory. In 409 B.C., the Athenians occupied the land for four years until the Spartans invaded it again. However, in 390 B.C., Athenians regained control of Byzantium.

Byzantium was also a part of the Macedonian empire and was under the rule of Alexander the Great for years. In 191 B.C. the city gained its independence, but this didn’t last long. In 197, Roman Emperor Septimius Severus and his army attacked Byzantium and destroyed it. However, he later rebuilt the city in the image of Eastern Roman colonies. It stayed a part of the Roman Empire for over a thousand years and underwent many changes, including its name.

Constantinople

In 324 B.C., Roman Emperor Constantine the Great rebuilt Byzantium as a part of the Roman Empire. He added many Roman monuments to the city and made sure it stood out as he planned to honor it with a new name in 330 B.C. He named the city Constantinople after himself and made it the capital of the Roman Empire. During this time, it prospered and became one of the region’s most influential and powerful cities.

In 395, Roman Emperor Theodosius the Great passed away. His two sons divided the Empire into Eastern and Western parts, and it was never reunited again. Constantinople was no longer the capital of the Roman Empire.

In the 400s, it became the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire, also called the Byzantine Empire, which became a Greek colony. Gradually, Constantinople started to lose its Roman identity and was hugely influenced by the Greeks.

Because of Constantinople’s strategic position, it became the center of diplomacy, culture, and commerce. In 532, the people weren’t pleased with how Roman Emperor Justinian I handled certain political issues, leading to one of the most devastating events in Constantinople’s history, the Nika Riot. This resulted in an unprecedented loss of human life and the destruction of the city.

The city was rebuilt again including many of its monuments like the Hagia Sophia church, which later became a mosque. At the time, the city became the Greek Orthodox Church’s center.

For decades, Constantinople prospered under the reign of the Byzantine Empire for many reasons, including its unique location. However, its success was a blessing and a curse as it drew the eyes of the world to it and attracted many invaders. For centuries, many Middle Eastern countries attacked the city. In 1204, it was defiled by the Crusaders and remained under their control for years. Eventually, it became the center of the Catholic Latin Empire.

Constant rivalry existed between the Greek Orthodox Church and the Catholic Latin Empire. Constantinople’s association with them meant it was dragged into the middle of this, resulting in devastating consequences. The city became defenseless, its population declined, and it went bankrupt. In 1261, while the city was still reeling, it was recaptured by the Nicaea Empire and joined the Byzantine Empire again.

During this time, the Ottoman Turks were gaining power and invading Constantinople’s neighboring cities, cutting it off from the rest of the world.

Istanbul

After the previous events, Constantinople became vulnerable and an easy target for invaders. In 1453, Ottoman Sultan Mehmed II and his troops conquered the city and declared it the Ottoman Empire’s capital. They changed its name to Istanbul. Sultan Mehmed II wanted to erase all remains of Greek and Roman influence and turn it into an Ottoman city.

He rejuvenated Istanbul and brought back all Greek Orthodox and Catholics who fled the city. He built the Grand Bazaar, which is still standing to this day. He also created a diverse community of Jewish, Christian, and Muslim families in the city. The sultan also built large mosques like the Fatih Mosque and public baths, hospitals, and schools.

Suleiman the Magnificent ruled the Ottoman Empire from 1520 to 1566. During that time, the city witnessed an architectural and artistic revolution, making Istanbul a major commercial, political, and cultural center. Its population had also grown to 1 million residents. It remained under the Ottoman Empire’s rule until the First World War.

In 1923, the Turkish people gained their independence, and the Republic of Turkey was established. Istanbul became a part of the country but wasn’t its capital. Ankara is the capital of Turkey. In the early years, investors turned their attention to the new and exciting city of Ankara and ignored Istanbul.

In the 1940s and 1950s, Istanbul returned to its previous glory, constructing avenues, boulevards, and public squares. In the 1970s, the city’s population increased rapidly, and became a major city.

​Now, Istanbul is the home to many historical monuments that were added to the UNESCO World Heritage list. In 2010, it was chosen as the European capital of culture.

Istanbul as a Historical and Cultural Hub

Istanbul was the capital of many empires, and each has left its mark on the city, making it a historical and cultural hub. Walking down the streets of Istanbul, you will find many cultural centers, including bookstores, libraries, and theaters.

One of Istanbul’s most famous cultural centers is The Foundation, which organizes events like movies, jazz, theater, music, and festivals. Another is the Ataturk Cultural Center, which acts as an opera house and has libraries, a cinema hall, and a theater. Hodjapasha Cultural Center is another testament to the city’s cultural influence. It is near the city’s most famous monument, the Hagia Sophia. It was initially a public bath. Although the building is a historic landmark, it is decorated with modern lights and colors, making it one of the most marvelous places in the city. It is famous for its Rumi dance shows and other traditional dance displays.

Istanbul’s Unique Position

Istanbul is Turkey’s most popular city, and it stands out from all other cities in the country, Europe, and the Middle East. It is one of the few cities in the region where you can take a 15-minute ferry from one continent to another. Istanbul also has many architectural buildings and monuments from the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire, the Latin Empire, and the Ottoman Empire. You will find traces of its rich and diverse history wherever you go.

Istanbul also has breathtaking natural scenery like the Prince Islands and the Bosphorus Strait. It is also Europe’s most populous city.

Istanbul’s European side is one of the most extensive parts of the city and has 25 districts. It is divided by a natural stream called “The Golden Horn” that drains into the Bosporus Strait.

The European section is popular among tourists since it’s home to some of the most famous historical monuments in the world, like Kapalıçarşı pronounced “kah–PAH–luh CHAR–shuh” meaning “Covered market,” the Topkapi Palace Museum, Sultan Suleymaniye Mosque, the Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia.

Istanbul’s Asian section has 14 districts and multiple attractions like Kadıköy market, Bağdat Caddesi Avenue, Caddebostan Dalyan Park, Haydarpaşa Train Station, Beylerbeyi Palace, and Çamlıca mosque.

​Life in Istanbul

Have you ever wondered what characterizes Istanbulites? You can only understand a city by learning about its people, their traditions, and lifestyle.

Istanbulites Are Hospitable

Istanbulites, and all Turkish people, are famous for their hospitality. You can meet a local, and after an hour, they will invite you to dinner at their home and introduce you to their family. They are very generous people and treat their guests with respect.

Istanbulites Are Punctual People

If you have an appointment with an Istanbulite, expect them to be on time. However, if they are ever late, understand it isn’t their fault. Istanbul is a large city, and traffic can sometimes be a problem. However, they will do their best not to keep you waiting.

No Shoes at Home

In most Istanbulites’ homes, you must remove your shoes before entering. They always keep slippers at the door so guests can wear them in the house to prevent dirt and dust from getting inside. They will also offer you cologne, or as they call it, “Kolonya,” to disinfect your hands.

Istanbulites Love Tea

Tea is a popular beverage in Turkey.

User: (WT-shared) Shoestring at wts wikivoyage, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:A_cup_of_traditional_styled_tea,_Istanbul,_Turkey.JPG

Tea is one of the most popular beverages in Turkey. They usually drink a cup at breakfast and multiple other times during the day. Even though Istanbul has Starbucks and other cafes, nothing is as popular as their traditional tea.

Istanbulites Value Loyalty

They love their family and friends and are highly loyal to them. If you have a Turkish friend, expect that they will always be by your side and have your back.

Istanbulites Are Direct

Istanbul is fast-paced; people are always in a hurry, and many don’t have time for pleasantries. Istanbulites are direct and say things as they are. They prefer to use a few words to express themselves or just nod or shake their head in response.

Istanbulites Love Love

Have you ever watched a Turkish TV show or dizi? Most of the stories are about love. Istanbulites are romantic and still believe that true love can conquer all. When they fall in love, they fall hard and deep.

Istanbulites Like Getting Personal

If you have a conversation with someone from Istanbul, they may ask personal questions like “Are you single?” or “Do you have children?” They aren’t trying to cross boundaries; they just don’t mind discussing personal details, even with strangers.

Istanbul Traditions

Although they don’t celebrate Christmas, you will find Christmas decorations around the city during this time of the year.

Circumcision ceremonies are very popular in the city.

They believe that someone’s envy could harm them, so they use blue glass eyes to ward off negative energy.

They greet each other with a kiss on the cheek, and they greet elderly people by kissing their hands.

Brides often serve their grooms a cup of coffee with a pinch of salt in it to test their love. If he drinks it without complaining, he truly loves her.

Fortune tellers are very popular in the city, and many, especially girls, seek their advice when they fall in love.

Istanbulites Lifestyle

They enjoy going to the opera, ballet, and concerts

Istanbul is famous for its nightlife, and you will find nightclubs and bars all over the city

Family and friends enjoy getting together and eating out in any of Istanbul’s restaurants

Many of the most popular clothing brands are sold in Istanbul

Istanbul Cosmopolitan Fabric

Istanbul is a pretty diverse city. Its history shows how it welcomed different empires and cultures and managed to adapt to all the transformations throughout the years. The city prides itself on being a cosmopolitan metropolis. It doesn’t fall under one category. It is a pro-western, democratic, Muslim, and secular city. No matter what your beliefs are or how you identify yourself, you will feel at home in Istanbul.

The city still holds on to its Islamic identity. It is home to 3000 thousand mosques which are all considered architectural masterpieces. However, it still cherishes its Christian roots, as you will see from the many eye-catching churches around the city.

Many different ethnic groups live in Istanbul like the Uyghurs, Crimean Tatars, Uzbeks, Karakalpaks, Karachays, Tatars, Azeris, and Turks. There are also Indo-Europeans like Greeks, Gorani, Hamshenis, Armenians, Pomaks, Albanians, Bosniaks, Zaza-Dimli Kurds, and Kurds. You also have Semitic-speaking people like Jews, Arabs, and Assyrians. One can’t forget the Caucasian-speaking people like Chechens, Laz, Georgians, and Circassians.

It is rare to find a city with historical, religious, and cultural diversity like that of Istanbul.

​An in-Depth Look into Istanbul’s Local Culture

One of the most popular aspects of Istanbul is its local culture. Travelers are often left in awe of the city’s cuisine, art scene, and customs.

Istanbul’s Celebrated Cuisine

Istanbul is famous for its tasty dishes. You haven’t truly lived until you try Istanbul’s cuisine.

Turkish Meatballs (Köfte)

Köfte is one of the most popular dishes in Istanbul and you can find it anywhere in the city’s streets. It is usually made with beef, parsley, and onions. You can eat it in a sandwich in the streets or with yogurt and a side dish at any local restaurant like Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi Selim Usta.

Turkish Pizza (Lahmacun)

Lahmacun is also known as Turkish Pizza.

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Lahmacun is made with round dough, topped with vegetables, sauce, minced meat, and Turkish spices and herbs. Some restaurants also add lemon juice on top. If you don’t like these toppings, no problem. Most restaurants offer a wide variety of ingredients. One of the best places that serve Lahmacun is Borsam Taşfırın in the Kadıköy fish market area.

Baked Potato (Kumpir)

This popular street food should be the first thing you try when you arrive in Istanbul. The potatoes are baked in the oven, then they add cheese and local butter for a mouthwatering flavor. You can also change the topping and customize it to your liking. You can add tomatoes, olives, mushrooms, red cabbage, and more. You will find many places in Ortaköy that serve Kumpir.

Baklava

You can’t have a meal without dessert, and Baklava will satisfy your sugar craving. It is a crispy delight made with dough, filled with hazelnuts, walnuts, or pistachios, and topped with syrup or honey. You will find this mouthwatering dessert in most restaurants in the city. However, you should only eat it from an experienced chef to savor the unique experience. Karaköy Güllüoğlu is one of Istanbul’s most famous Baklava restaurants.

Turkish Breakfast

Turkish breakfast isn’t just a meal but an experience. It is delicious and filling. There will be boiled eggs, cucumbers, lettuce, cold-cut meats, cheese, olives, butter, and fresh bread. You can have Turkish breakfast in your hotel or any restaurant in the city.

Turkish Coffee

Istanbulites love their coffee, and none is as tasty as their Turkish coffee. It is one of the oldest beverages in the country, dating back to the Ottoman Empire. It is also a part of many rituals like when a man and his family go to his betrothed home and ask for her hand in marriage. Coffee is usually served with a delicious Turkish delight called lokum. You can have Turkish coffee anywhere in the city, but it is best to try it in local and authentic places like Bebek Kahve.