ISTANBUL TOURS

Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey, with a population of almost 15 million people accounting for 18% of Turkey’s population. It is the 3rd largest metropolitan area in Europe after London and Moscow. Istanbul is the only city in the world that is built across two continents, it is the cultural, economic, and financial center of Turkey.

Istanbul, where East and West, Asia and Europe meet, is a world city of different cultures and religions living harmoniously and happily for centuries.

The European part of the city, situated at the southeastern tip of the continent, is separated from the Asian part by the Bosphorus, the beautiful and historic strait that cuts through from the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara.

The European city is further divided by the Golden Horn, a narrow inlet that is fed by two streams known as the Sweet Waters of Europe.

The oldest section of the European city, commonly known as the Historical side, lies on the right bank of the Golden Horn.

On the lower left bank of the Golden Horn is the post quarter of Galata (Karakoy), with the district of Beyoglu on the hillside above it and Pera- which in Ottoman times was inhabited by foreigners lived and where they established their embassies and places of worship.

The European side of the city is a trade and business center, whereas the Asian side is more of a residential area. Istanbul has a myriad of attractions for visitors, particularly those interested in history and religion. Previously known as Byzantium and then Constantinople, the ancient city is a layering of civilization on civilization, empire on empire. As a major religious center for both the Greek Orthodox Church and the Islamic faith, Istanbul is the custodian of one of the world’s most important cultural heritages and home to some of the world’s most opulent displays of art and history.

Istanbul has a thriving nightlife, diversity of people and an abundance of attractions. It provides a massive range of entertainment options for all.