Standing astride two continents, surrounded by a garland of water, the past capital of two empires and of modern Turkey, and with visible history that stretches back nearly 3 millennia, Istanbul is simply unique and marvelous. Its historic center is an eye candy for tourism posters: a matchless atmosphere holding the history of Byzantine, Ottoman and current Turkish history. Incomparable religious buildings, exceptional architecture and a culture that has been built up for thousands of years… Istanbul is the only city in the world that brings two continents together. The glorious Bosphorus stands between the European and Asian continents. Istanbul has many touristic points starting from the old city to the Prince’s islands. However, you must all know that regular stuff. If you need some more interesting facts, we got your back.

Interesting Facts About Istanbul

• Istanbul is the most crowded city of Turkey. It is the center of art, culture, economy and history. The funny thing is, Istanbul is not the capital of Turkey.
• The flower tulip is the symbol of the Netherlands; however tulips are originally sent to the Netherlands from Istanbul.
• The Grand Bazaar is the biggest and oldest covered bazaar of the world. It hosts over 3000 shops and stores. It resembles a maze.
• Istanbul is also known as “the city with seven hills” That saying comes from the belief that it was built on seven hills.
• The infamous mystery author Agatha Christie wrote her novel “Murder in the orient Express” in Istanbul, Pera Palace Hotel.
• In the Roman times, the city was called Constantinople. This tradition continued for a long time; but after the official renaming the post offices did not deliver mails that are addressed to Constantinople.
• The Blue Mosque is the only mosque in the world with six minarets. It is a masterpiece by the great architecture Mimar Sinan.

What to do in Istanbul?

Istanbul has a lot to offer when it comes to discovering important landmarks. But remember, you must be ready for a good walk as there are touristic attractions all around the city. In every corner you will come along something historical, something that will take you back in time. You most definitely pay a visit it to the Topkapi Palace, Sultanahmet Mosque, Hagia Sophia and the Hippodrome that are all in walking distance to each other. You can stumble upon the Grand Bazaar and get lost in its maze-like alleys. You can walk along the Galata Bridge between Taksim and Eminent, and maybe enjoy a fish sandwich that is a classic street food in Istanbul. Do not forget to admire the captivating views of the Golden Horn from the top of Galata Tower. You can join the excited crowd in the beating heart of the city, Beyoglu. If you want to follow the footsteps of the Jewish community, you can take a walk in the Galata district. You may also come along a Whirling Dervishes performance in Galata Whirling Dervish Hall. Another must do is taking a cruise tour along the Bosphorus. You can see the Dolmabahce Palace and Beylerbeyi Palace waving at you from the Bosphorus Strait. The words are not enough to count Istanbul’s exceptional landmarks. And it is indescribable how you will feel in this gorgeous city. Telling makes no sense, you have got to visit!