Istanbul formerly known as Constantinople, is the largest city in Turkey, having a population of over 15 million residents, comprising 19% of the population of Turkey. Istanbul is the most populous European city, and the world's 15th-largest city.

With its thousands of years of history, unique architectural structures, rich cultural texture, millions of populattion, vibrant nightlife, festivals of art and music, quintessential cuisine and labyrinths of marketplaces and shopping arcades, Istanbul is an important center of attraction today as it was yesterday. The bustling metropolis of Türkiye, it is a city full of charm, where the past goes hand in hand with the present and every step brings to light a relic of times gone by. At the crossroads of two continents - Europe and Asia - this spectacular city has absorbed the best of both worlds.

See Istanbul’s timeless sights on a tour of the city’s stunning historic places. Listen for the ancient echoes of pounding hooves and charioteers at Hippodrome Square and spot the distinctive tiles of the Blue Mosque. Explore the Byzantine mosaics and minarets of Hagia Sophia, follow in the footsteps of powerful sultans, courtiers, and generals at Topkapi Palace, immerse yourselves in the Crossroads of Commerce (Historic Bazaars; Grandbazaar and Spice Market) in a deluge of variety and choice.