Historical Istanbul is an area with a large “concentration” of attractions. Beautiful Istanbul: photos of attractions with descriptions History of the development of megacities map of Istanbul

Istanbul is truly unique in every way. In addition to the fact that it is located simultaneously on two continents (most of it in Europe, a smaller part in Asia), its geographical location is of strategic importance. From the south, Istanbul is washed by the Sea of ​​Marmara, through which the routes from the Black Sea to the Mediterranean lead.

It also has its own characteristics local climate. It is subtropical, but since the city is located on the border of the corresponding weather zone, the celestial office often “sends” cold winds from the north here. This is the reason that sultry weather - from 35 degrees and above - is extremely rare in the metropolis. However, summers are quite hot, the average temperature level varies between 19-28°C above zero.

During the summer, Istanbul experiences periods of high humidity. In general, precipitation (mostly rain) occurs on 123 days a year. Approximately 850-900 mm of precipitation falls over 12 months. The city receives more than 2 thousand sundials per year, which is a very good indicator. As for winter, it is also characterized by humidity. Severe cold weather is not observed, but snow falls. average temperature– from +3°C to +9°C. In spring and autumn the weather is also quite comfortable, although it is prone to sudden temperature changes.

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659 BC is considered the official founding date of Istanbul. Its first inhabitants were ethnic Greeks. Actually, the city of Byzantium, named after the mythological hero of Ancient Hellas, arose in 667 BC. e. Later, the Romans settled here, completely subjugating it to their power.

The turning point in the history of Istanbul was the year 324. The ambitious Roman Emperor Constantine came up with the idea of ​​​​founding at the crossroads of two parts of the world Big city and give it the name New Rome. The ambitious plans were destined to come true, and within a few years the majestic Constantinople (the first name did not stick, and the city received the name of the ruler himself) was proclaimed the capital of the Roman Empire. By the way, in Russian chronicles it was called Constantinople.

What was Istanbul like then, one and a half thousand years ago? Just to say that it is beautiful is to say nothing. Behind the massive walls that surrounded the city lived wealth, luxury and splendor. Intensive construction was going on in the new capital, grandiose religious buildings were erected one after another. They were imported into the city from all over the empire. magnificent works art with which to decorate it. The “city of Constantine” even had its own hippodrome, not to mention the Roman forum (meeting place) and baths.

The years 379-395 saw the reign of Theodosius, who was destined to become the last emperor in the history of the powerful Roman Empire. Before his death, he divided the huge state into two parts, ordering his sons Arcadius and Honorius to rule them. The role of Constantinople was not diminished in any way; it became the capital of Byzantium and at the same time the main center of Christianity of the Eastern rite (Orthodoxy).

Under Emperor Justinian I, who reigned from 527-565, the state reached its greatest prosperity. The face of the empire was still its capital, and no expense was spared for its improvement. Were under construction luxurious palaces and temples. At the same time, the magnificent Hagia Sophia was erected - one of the main attractions of modern Istanbul.

Life is structured in such a way that the white stripe is often replaced by a black one. It did not bypass the Byzantine capital either. In 1204, the crusaders coveted its wealth and literally plundered Constantinople and took away a lot of treasures. They established their power here and founded a new state - the Latin Empire. True, it did not last long, until 1261, when Emperor Michael VIII expelled the conquerors.

Michael VIII was a representative of the Palaiologan dynasty, which restored the former Byzantine Empire. She ruled for two centuries and is the longest in the history of the state. In 1453, when Constantinople was conquered by the Turks, the decline and final collapse of Byzantium occurred. So the majestic city turned from the capital of one empire into the center of another - the Ottoman one. Sultan Mehmed II personally paid special attention to its revival. Buildings and structures erected in former times have undergone radical reconstruction. For example, temples were converted into mosques. At the same time, Topkapi Palace was built - one of the most famous in Istanbul.

The 16th century was marked by a flourishing Ottoman Empire and, accordingly, its capital. Particularly noteworthy is the period from 1520 to 1566, when Suleiman the Magnificent was the ruler. Researchers of the past are unanimous in the opinion that this period became a real “golden age” in the entire history of Constantinople. The most famous mosque, Suleymaniye, was built at this time. She became a symbol of the city, its business card for many centuries to come. To understand the place this temple occupied and still occupies in the hearts of the Turks, it is enough to remember what significance Hagia Sophia had for the Byzantines.

After Suleiman died, the sun of prosperity over his state began to shine less brightly. However, Sultan Ahmed I was able to find funds for the construction of the famous Blue Mosque, which was built in 1609-1616. After the signing of the Treaty of Karlowitz in 1699, the Ottoman Empire lost a significant part of its European possessions, and the country began to decline. The government intends to breathe new life into its financial system, which became especially relevant after the wars with Russia, Persia, the Venetian Republic and Austria. The acquisition of state lands by wealthy clans was encouraged. The most delicious plots turned out to be along the Bosphorus Strait, where the new owners began to build luxurious palaces.

The first half of the 18th century turned out to be controversial for Constantinople. On the one hand, the city began to revive, on the other, the war with Russia began, which affected its development. Positive changes in the appearance of the capital took place in the 19th century. In 1845, the Galata Bridge was put into operation. Another 5 years later, the first steamships were launched onto the waters of the Bosphorus. Intracity transport also developed: trams appeared in 1871, and the so-called mini-metro, known as the “Tunel,” was put into operation in 1875. 1889 was also a landmark year: the first train to Paris (the Orient Express) went.

In 1919, Constantinople was occupied by British, French and Greek troops. The Turkish national liberation movement offered active resistance to foreign invaders. In 1923, this struggle was crowned with victory and a secular republic was formed, led by former army officer Mustafa Kemal, who took the title Atatürk (“Father of the Nation”). The capital of the new state was moved to Ankara.

On March 28, 1930, the authorities renamed Constantinople to Istanbul, and this is the spelling of the new name adopted in the Russian language. At the everyday level in Turkey itself the toponym “Istanbul” is often used. In neighboring Greece, the former name of the city, Constantinople, continues to be officially used in our time.

Istanbul in the 21st century plays a leading role in political life countries. One confirmation of this can be considered the attempted coup in July 2016, when the military opposed the regime of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, but was unsuccessful. Dramatic events during the coup, including clashes between opponents of the head of state and his supporters, took place not only in Ankara, but also in Istanbul.

Sights of Istanbul

The undoubted decoration of Istanbul is, of course, the mosques, the splendor of which can captivate everyone. The most beautiful religious building is, of course, the Suleymaniye Mosque, built by the architect Sinan in 1550-1557. It can accommodate about 5 thousand believers. The mosque complex also includes a madrasah where devout Muslims study their religion, libraries, observatories, Turkish hammams, and, of course, four tall minarets.

On main square Sultanahmet is home to another world-famous religious building - the Blue Mosque, which differs from the others by the presence of not four, as is customary, but six minarets. This is one of the symbols of Istanbul, captivating with its grandeur, grace and interior decoration. It is decorated with exclusive ceramic tiles, which are painted with blue and white paints. One of the walls is decorated with 260 stained glass windows made by Venetian craftsmen: believers turn to it during prayer. The floor of the mosque is covered with expensive, unique handmade carpets.

Istanbul Blue Mosque or Sultanahmet Mosque

Hagia Sophia, or Hagia Sophia, is located just opposite the Blue Mosque. Come to Istanbul and not see it with your own eyes, the main religious symbol of Byzantine Constantinople? This is simply impossible! A large army of tourists flocks to admire the magnificent temple, which was originally Orthodox. Six centuries ago it was turned into a mosque. Today, Hagia Sophia is one of the most luxurious museums in the world, which can be placed on a par with St. Peter's Basilica and Sistine Chapel in the Vatican.

The main palace of the Ottoman Empire until the mid-19th century was Topkapi Palace. It stands on the shores of Cape Seraglio, with east side Old Istanbul, overlooking the Bosphorus and the Sea of ​​Marmara. Huge palace complex Topkapi covers an area of ​​70 hectares and was once home to up to 40,000 people. In 1462, Mehmet II began construction of the palace; the rulers of the Ottoman Empire lived and ruled here for almost 400 years. It is here that the popular television series “The Magnificent Century” takes place, where Sultan Suleiman lives with his harem. Today, Topkapi Palace is an excellent museum, the halls of which picturesquely display the wealth and splendor of the Ottoman Empire. No palace in the world can boast such a fabulous location - on the cape, which is called the Palace, wedged between the Bosphorus Strait and the Golden Horn Bay, on one of the seven hills of Istanbul.

The official residence of the Turkish sultans since 1853 was the Dolmabahce Palace - luxurious, pompous, built to compete with the abodes of European monarchs. The construction was initiated by Sultan Abdulmecid, and his idea was a complete success: new palace in the Baroque style gave the shores of the Bosphorus a special charm, as every visitor can see. It is also famous for the fact that the first president of Turkey, Mustafa Ataturk, died here in 1938. Its area is 4.5 hectares, the palace has 285 rooms. Currently, Dolmabahce is used as the Istanbul residence of the Prime Minister of the Republic.

On Asian side On the Bosphorus there is another famous palace - Beylerbey. It was built in the 60s of the 19th century as the summer residence of the Ottoman rulers. The order for construction, which lasted four years, was given by Sultan Abdul Aziz, who, ironically, spent the last four years of his life here since his deposition in 1912. The palace has several halls, the most famous is the entrance hall, inside which there are pools and even a fountain. In the interior, magnificent lamps are striking, most of the lampshades of which were painted by our compatriot Aivazovsky.

Once you find yourself in the European part of Istanbul, which is very lively and noisy, be sure to visit the Rumelihisar fortress, which was built in 1452 at the behest of Sultan Mehmed Fatih on the picturesque shore of the strait. This place in the city is very calm and peaceful, and the fortress itself has the status of a museum. At its core architectural ensemble there are three main towers: Saruja Pasha, Halil Pasha and Zaganos Pasha. Those who climb up will be treated to an impressive panorama of the Bosphorus and the Asian part of Istanbul.

Among the most beautiful historical buildings The city also includes Haydarpasa Station. This monumental structure is a company "Anatolian railways"built in 1906-1909. The station was conceived as a western terminal for lines leading from Hejaz and Baghdad. The building is made in the neoclassical style; Helmut Konu and Otto Ritter, architects from Germany, worked on it. Haydarpaşa Station was used for its intended purpose until 2012.

All sights of Istanbul

Museums of Istanbul

The symbol of Turkey and the calling card of the country are dervishes - Muslim monks leading an ascetic lifestyle. But they became famous not only for their abstinence, but also for their traditional dance, performed in long snow-white robes. You can see this hypnotic choreographic performance with your own eyes at the Whirling Dervish Museum in Istanbul, the building of which is surrounded by a luxurious flowering garden. The museum has a hall that occupies the entire ground floor, which is intended for dancing.

Bearing in mind that the Ottoman Empire was a powerful state, you can visit the exhibition of the Military Museum in the Harbiye area, which is north of Taksim Square, famous for its political actions. Previously, the Military Academy was based in this ancient building. The museum has as many as 22 exhibition halls, containing about 10 thousand exhibits. Of particular interest is the collection firearms, covering the period of the 16th-20th centuries. A separate hall of the museum is dedicated to the founder of the modern Turkish state, Ataturk.

It will be interesting to visit the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art, which is located on the lively Sultanahmet Square. The building, this is the ancient palace of Ibrahim Pasha, immediately attracts attention: it is made of dark brick and somewhat resembles a small fortress. Within its walls are stored priceless works not only of Turkish, but also of other world civilizations united by the Islamic religion. Of particular interest to visitors are the authentic exhibits, from which one can judge how representatives of high society lived during the heyday of the Ottoman Porte.

On the main square of Istanbul there is also a wonderful Museum of Mosaics, which is based on a unique archaeological find, namely, the magnificent mosaics that decorated the palace Byzantine emperors, and a portico in the covered gallery. They were discovered along with the peristyle of the residence of the rulers of the Byzantine Empire and well-preserved fragments of columns of the Corinthian order. The total area of ​​the “mosaic finds” is impressive; it is 2 thousand square meters. m. Today it is known that the exhibits of this museum are much older than the collections exhibited in the Hagia Sophia and the Chora Church.

Entertainment and relaxation

There is no way you will get bored in Istanbul, since, without exaggeration, it is able to give a festive atmosphere and offer great amount entertainment for every taste. First of all, fans of night activities will like it here, because Istanbul is active 24 hours a day. The choice of varied nightlife entertainment in the city is incredibly large: Turkish bars, nightclubs, dance floors and beach discos. In many establishments you can listen not only to modern music, but also Turkish folk music, as well as enjoy belly dancing and theatrical performances. In addition, Istanbul can rightfully be called the “city of festivals”, where large-scale events take place every year. Of these, the most famous are the International Jazz Festival, the Istanbul Film Festival, the International Istanbul Music Festival and the International Istanbul Tulip Festival.

For family vacationers, we recommend visiting the Istanbul Zoo with a variety of animals, birds and a small Japanese garden. Also interesting are the unique miniature park “Miniaturk”, the Tatilya amusement park and the most beautiful city parks.

Turkish baths and hammams are also incredibly popular among tourists, where you can join the locals and feel like a real Istanbul resident. To others interesting entertainment could be a ferry excursion to the Princes' Islands, which are the most popular place recreation. In addition, in Istanbul you can relax, sunbathe and swim on one of the many city beaches on the Bosphorus coast.

Shopping in Istanbul

Istanbul is not only an eventful history and priceless cultural heritage, but also bazaars, markets and shopping centers. In this regard, the city on the Bosphorus resembles a real one oriental fairy tale, which became reality.

Numerous tourists never pass by the magnificent Grand Bazaar - one of the largest covered markets in the world. Just imagine: it unites 61 shopping streets, which contain about 4,500 shops, more than a dozen warehouses and over 2,100 studios. Not to mention the fact that under its roof there are 12 mosques, 18 fountains, several cafes, exchange offices, school and even a bathhouse. The Turks call the main Istanbul bazaar, which is visited by more than 500 thousand visitors daily, “Kapalı çarshi”. Someone wittily remarked that his visit, which begins as a feast for the eyes, ends... in mourning for the wallet. The range of goods is so wide that your eyes really run wild and it’s simply impossible to resist buying.

Grand Bazaar in Istanbul

The second most popular market in Istanbul by area is Misir Carsisi, or Spice Market. It is also called the Egyptian Bazaar. It is located in the historical center of the city, namely in the Eminonu quarter, at the very entrance to the Golden Horn Bay. The market houses 80 shops under its roof. Experienced gourmets already know that the local assortment is not only wide, but also exclusive: you will certainly find something that is not available in other retail outlets. Buyers can choose from, in addition to spices, cosmetics and perfumes, medicinal herbs and medications, dried fruits and even groceries.

Now welcome to shopping complex Akmerkez, opened in 1993 and is especially popular among tourists. After staying here, your wallet will also be pretty thin. But how can you resist buying great clothes, branded shoes, accessories and high-quality household appliances? In addition to shops and boutiques, Akmerkez unites several offices and bank branches, entertainment centers and beauty salons, cozy cafes and restaurants. It is very convenient to move around the shopping complex, because it has 43 elevators, two of which are panoramic.

The Canyon shopping complex is also worth a visit, notable for the fact that Times magazine included it among the top five attractions in Istanbul. It resembles a city within a city. It has its own “squares”, “streets” and “houses”, by which we mean shops. Connoisseurs of such brands as Douglas, Fresh Line Homemade Cosmetic, Wagamama, Bally will especially like this place. In the evenings, “golden youth” gather in bars, cafes and restaurants of the Canyon. Movie lovers are not left out either, at the Mars Sinema cinema with nine spacious halls.

MetroCity, located in the Levent business district, is considered one of the most modern shopping centers of the former Constantinople. The building has four floors and is equipped with 5 regular and 3 panoramic elevators. In the shops of the shopping complex you can find goods from both local brands and European manufacturers. total area retail outlets, which include expensive boutiques, is about 60 thousand square meters. m. Metro City has its own bars, cafes and several restaurants, not to mention pizzerias and eateries. On the ground floor there is a play area for children, next to which there is a large aquarium inhabited by... who do you think? A real shark!

Kitchen

Istanbul has an incredible number of a large number of gastronomic establishments offering all kinds of cuisines from the world. First of all, you should pay attention to Turkish cuisine, which is considered one of the most exquisite and rich in the world. As appetizers (“meze”), preference is given to olives, various salads with olive oil, stuffed tomatoes, rice in grape leaves and much more. The first course is traditionally served with vegetable chorba soup and dzhadzhik soup made from fresh cucumbers and yogurt. And the main menu includes dishes from seafood, meat and vegetables.

The most famous Turkish dish is kebab - finely chopped meat on skewers. Also worth trying are kofte (meat balls with spices and onions), manti and pilaf made from rice or coarsely ground wheat. Various seafood products are no less popular: squid, sea bass, shrimp, swordfish, lobster, etc. Vegetable dishes in Istanbul include stewed (“gyuvec”) and stuffed (“dolma”) vegetables, as well as beans and beans.

Beer Ephesus

Public transport

Buses, trams and taxis operate around Istanbul. The metro, funiculars and ferries operate. Every day, according to statistics, over 5 million passengers use public transport here.

Buses are usually overcrowded and most lack air conditioning, so tourists, especially business people, are not very fond of this type of transport. In addition, moving around the city using it is not very convenient, since buses often get stuck in traffic jams, and all due to the lack of dedicated traffic lanes (which, by the way, cannot be said about trams).

Some tips for those who want to use taxi services in Istanbul. Give preference to bright yellow cars with the words “taksi” on the roofs. They are considered official and are equipped with digital counters. The driver must turn on the meter in front of you. If while driving you see that it is not working, you have every right to demand a stop and get out immediately.

A trip on a ferry, which has become the “transport symbol” of Istanbul, significantly saves time. Usually it is used if you need to get from the European part of the city to the Asian part, and vice versa. Ferries depart every half hour and are valid with a regular public transport ticket. Ferries also operate to other cities in the country, such as Mudanya and Yalova.

Safety

Surprisingly, among the world's megacities, the crime rate in Istanbul is one of the lowest. Such a favorable situation has developed here thanks to the effective measures of law enforcement agencies and the activities of the international project MOBESE. Today, most streets in Istanbul are equipped with surveillance cameras, and the local police are mobile and well equipped. However, despite this, reasonable safety measures should not be neglected. This applies primarily to crowded places (bazaars, transport, etc.). It is also not recommended to take walks in the dark, especially in the areas of Zeytinburnu, Kumburgaz and Fatih.

Hotels and accommodation

There are a lot of hotels in Istanbul, they are located not only in tourist and business areas, but also in residential areas, lost among ordinary buildings. In addition to the word “hotel,” their signs proudly display stars. Tourists are sometimes deceived into believing that they indicate a high level of service. But it is not always the case. Stars often talk about the vanity of the owner, rather than about the service corresponding to their amount.

The location of the hotel does not particularly affect its pricing policy. A luxury hotel can be found in a suburban residential area, while a budget hotel can be found in the vicinity of the most popular tourist spots. Accommodation in Istanbul is chosen based primarily on price, not the area.

If you come to Istanbul to explore the sights, it is better not to settle on the Asian shore of the Golden Horn. This way you will save both money and time. Otherwise, you will start your day with a ferry ride to the European part of the city. Next, when choosing between the northern (Beyoğlu) and southern (Sultanahmet) shores of the Golden Horn, think again about the purpose of the trip: if you want to view architectural monuments and walk around the bazaar, then choose the south, and if you want to explore the shops of Çukurcuma and taste raki in the evenings, you will prefer north.

Four Seasons, one of the most famous in the city, occupies the premises of... a former prison.

Among other first-class hotels in Istanbul, the Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel stands out, located in the city center in the Sultanahmet district, which received the World Travel Awards medal as the best in Turkey in 2015. A member of the World's Leading Hotels, Swissotel The Bosphorus is a luxury hotel surrounded by large gardens and offering stunning views of the Bosphorus.

In Istanbul, it is worth keeping in mind that the stated price of hotel apartments is not always final. If a potential guest starts to bargain, the hotel owner at some point will not be able to resist and will significantly reduce the price. True, it is not customary to bargain in all hotels - for example, in top-class hotels it is considered inappropriate.

How to get there

Flights from Russian Federation to Istanbul are carried out daily - both direct and connecting. home Harbour Air – international Airport named after Ataturk. It is located in the European part of the city, 24 km from its historical center. The airport has two terminals, international flights serves only one of them, designated by the letter “A”.

Direct flights Moscow-Istanbul depart from the capital's Sheremetyevo, Vnukovo and Domodedovo airports. Passengers spend an average of 3 hours and 10 minutes in the air. Airlines such as Aeroflot, Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines operate flights between the two cities.

In addition, Turkish Airlines provides air connections to Istanbul from a number of other Russian cities - St. Petersburg, Kazan, Yekaterinburg, Sochi. Connecting flights carried out by the same Aeroflot, as well as Ural Airlines, Belavia, Air Moldova, Air Serbia and other carriers.

Istanbul is a unique city located in two parts of the world: Europe and Asia. Only here, at the crossroads of cultures and religions, political and trade interests of various civilizations, could such a community, unusual in all respects, inhabited by representatives of different peoples, emerge. Despite the territorial proximity, the European and Asian parts of Istanbul are different. The reason for this is the history of the development of the metropolis. From this article you will learn in detail about the European part of Istanbul.

Galata Tower - the pearl of the European part of Istanbul

Beyoğlu is the ilche of Istanbul, which includes such historical districts of the city as Galata, Karakoy, Cihangir and others. This is where the famous Istiklal Street, Taksim Square, Galata Tower and many other interesting sights are located. Many bars, restaurants, shops and hotels make this area a “Mecca of tourism”, both domestic (let’s not forget that of Turkey’s approximately 90 million population, many residents of other cities also want to see Istanbul) and international.

Tram on Istiklal Street on a rare snowy day in Istanbul

On the territory of Ilche ​​Fatih, there are historical districts of Istanbul: Sultanahmet, Eminonu, Aksaray, Balat, Fener and others. Among the main attractions of Ilçe (the concentration of which here is perhaps the highest in Turkey, if not in the World), one can note the Topkapi Palace, known to us from the reign of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent (from the so popular TV series Magnificent Century), the Sultan Ahmet Mosque, the square Hippodrome and others. It is here that you can spend hours just walking the streets and photographing, looking, and photographing, looking and photographing, as a result, you understand that you were able to see only a small part of everything that can be seen in Fatih.

In the Besiktas district in the European part of Istanbul there is a famous one - a pearl of architecture on the Bosphorus.

Sultan Ahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque) one of the most beautiful mosques in the World is located in the European part of Istanbul

I would also like to note that it is in Istanbul, located in the European part of Istanbul, that most flights with tourists on board arrive.

The telephone code for the European part of Istanbul is 212 (and the Asian part is 216)

We can talk about the European part of Istanbul for a very, very long time. Districts, attractions, transport, cafes, restaurants, hotels and shops - all these are the topics of individual articles that have already been published or are being prepared for publication on our website.

Panorama of the historical part of Istanbul, located in Europe

Colleagues, hello everyone!

Historically, Fatih is the richest historical district of Istanbul. The population density here is prohibitive, because about 500,000 people, or even more, live in a relatively small area. Almost like in my native Sevastopol.

But Fatih, as you understand, this is a very large district of the European part of Istanbul and we just can’t swallow it.

Therefore, let's virtually cut it into pieces-districts in order to get to know them better and understand their value in terms of tourism.

And here are its quarters:

• Sultanahmet
• Bayazit
• Laleli
• Aksaray
• Yenikapı
• Sirkeci
• Eminonu
• Balat

Sultanahmet District

The historical part of Istanbul, which is under protection UNESCO. Pedestrian streets, chic atmosphere, best cafes cities (albeit expensive ones), the holy trinity of attractions - Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque - all here.

The place is romantic, although noisy. But wherever you look, you are surrounded by sights and the breath of the Sea of ​​Marmara. What could be better?

In principle, you don’t need to go anywhere, and if you want, it’s at your service. The city center is pedestrianized and only trams and taxis travel along the road, which of course affects the atmosphere.

If possible, stay here. Without a doubt, this is the most hit offer you can count on. Hotels here can be of different classes: from luxurious apartments to modest rooms with authentic ceilings.

But almost everywhere you can expect to be rewarded with a breakfast terrace overlooking the city’s most important attractions.

Hotels in the area Sultnahmet better, and we’ll look at detailed examples in a separate article.

Beyazit District

Well, as they say, every frog praises its swamp. So now I’ll fill you with a basket of advantages of living in this area, since we lived here for the first time in Istanbul.

Bend your fingers:

1. Close location to the center. 2 tram stops to Sultanahmet or 10 minutes on foot. Well, there are only 5 stops to the Galata Bridge. Gorgeous!
2. Cheap food. In our area, food is actually 2 times cheaper than in the center. In addition, it is easy to get to the party place - the Kumkapi area
3. Inexpensive housing. 100-150 liras for a family room with breakfast!
4. Grand Bazaar 200 meters
5. Change money at the best rate in the city

The only negative that is worth considering is that the entire part of the Aksaray, Laleli, Bayazit districts, which is located between the tram tracks and the Sea of ​​Marmara, has a rather shabby hill.

We lived very close to tram tracks, so there were no problems. But if your home is somewhere in the middle or even closer to the sea, then every day you will have to take a running start.

Keep this in mind if you are not a walker or have children with you.

From the sights Beyazit here is the Grand Bazaar and the triumphal column of Constantine, a couple of ancient Turkish hammams, mosques and several second-rate museums.

Here is our hotel Oban Suites Istanbul, which I recommend not only for the comfort and price, but also for the cool staff!

Laleli District

This is not a district, but a large shopping warehouse and a bouquet of street-shops. When my wife and I thought about buying something leather, we were sent straight here. Russian traders settle here, so the Russian language is understood here with a bang.

But don't think that the area Laleli- one big bazaar. Everything is very, very decent. True, don’t expect calm and soulful walks here. In the morning they will call you to do shopping, and in the evening they will whistle after you.

In terms of transport links, there are no complaints. Everything is very close by tram T1, although walking to the center is a bit far.

Aksaray District

This is the most extreme area that may interest a tourist.

The location is very good, along the T1 tram line, so there will be no problems with getting around. Is the intersection of several stations public transport(bus to the airport and bus station) and highways.

Aksaray interesting only in terms of saving money on hotels. Mosques, Fatih Park and several small museums - that’s probably the whole list of attractions. Also suitable for those who don’t really like tourist places for accommodation.

Yenikapı District

This area is a large hub between several modes of transport. See for yourself:

• green branch metro M2– takes the audience to the Taksim quarter
• red branch metro M1– delivery of passengers to Aksaray and to the bus station
• train Marmaray– communication with the Asian side of Istanbul
• ferries IDO– they transport everyone to the coastal towns of Yalova, Bursa, Bandirma
• bus terminus IST-1Y from

There is a fish market nearby and, according to the old Turkish tradition, fish restaurants across the road.

From the area Yenikapı by bus along the Kennedy Coastal Highway you can get to the Sirkeci area, and if you take the hill by storm, you will end up in the Beyazit area.

But still, this area not very popular for tourists for check-in.

This is an area that is already located between Sultanahmet Square and the Galata Bridge leading to the so-called New town .

This is the second most popular area among tourists, and independent travelers, I would say, even the first. Why?

Also, as in the case of the Beyazit area, it has all its advantages in terms of cheapness and accessibility to Sultanahmet Square. On the other hand, Eminönü with its ferries and seascapes is very close.

And one more bonus. The underground-underwater will transport you to the Asian part of Istanbul in no time. You can't imagine a better location.

The famous Orient Express, Gulhane Park and Entertainment Center Hadzipasha - everyone is here.

Eminonu District

An interesting and lively corner of Istanbul, which, like Yenikapi, is located at a crossroads, but with more advantageous position for tourists.

All around the sea surface and attractions: Galata Bridge, Sultanahmet Square, New mosque and the Egyptian Bazaar. You won't get bored here. Moreover, in 15 minutes you can walk to my favorite Galata Tower.

The center of attention is the Eminönü piers, the largest and busiest in all of Istanbul. From here you can go anywhere.

The main specialization of the area is the sale of the famous Balik Ekmek. You can buy it anywhere, but in my guide I recommend where to try the most delicious ones.

It has its own bus station, from where buses will take you to any neighboring area. The airport bus also parks here. IST-1S.

But still for living instead Eminönü, I would rather consider the neighboring Sirkeci quarter.

This is the last area of ​​our overview of the Old Town. It is not as centrally located as the others mentioned, but has its own charm and atmosphere.

You can get here either by ferry that sails along the strait Golden Horn or by bus. There is no metro here, although very soon they are planning to launch a tram line along the coast from the Eminonu area.

Although quite recently this area was plagued by devastation and gypsy fights, today it takes on completely different shades. Orthodox churches, among which the magnificent Bulgarian Church , the remains of fortress walls and embankments for a walk along the strait.

Balat- this is an interesting option for those who are tired of the hustle and bustle of Sultanahmet and Eminonu. And housing prices here are really lower than in the previous two.

Well, friends, we have quietly covered the most popular district of Istanbul, Fatih. In we will walk through the areas through Galata Bridge . Well, then we’ll come to the conclusion where it will be most convenient for you to settle.

If you are planning to go to Istanbul, then you will find an increased concentration of tips and tricks in the “” guide. Juicy and authentic!

Istanbul is a unique city located in two parts of the world: Europe and Asia. It was here that the interweaving of culture and religion, the clash of political and trade interests of different peoples and civilizations took place, which directly influenced the population and society of modern Turkey.

Although both sides - European and Asian - belong to the same city, each has its own differences and characteristics, it is impossible to confuse them. This is due to the history of the country and Istanbul in particular.

The European part of Istanbul includes 25 districts, and their total is 39. The remaining 14 districts are located in the Asian, or as it is also called, Anatolian, part of Istanbul. Accordingly, 2/3 of the city’s population lives on the European side, and 1/3 on the Asian side.

Most tourists visit only the European side, because... This is where the most famous and popular historical attractions are located. The Anatolian side is distinguished by the presence of an “Asian” flavor; it is not as “close” as the European side.

However, there are also many on the Asian side interesting places and historical sites, so don't limit your trip to Istanbul to visiting just one part of it.

Popular tourist areas in Istanbul

1.Bayrampaşa

Bayrampasa

Geographically, the Bayrampasa district is located in the very “heart” of the European part of the Turkish metropolis. This is one of the most densely populated areas of the city. The current population is about 273 thousand people.

A local attraction is well known to both residents of Istanbul and tourists: the giant shopping complex Forum Istanbul, which is actively visited by thousands of Turkish residents and foreigners every day. On the territory of this shopping center entertainment complex there is a huge oceanarium called Turkuazoo (İstanbul Sea Life Akvaryum). Therefore, the area will be interesting from the point of view of visiting the aquarium, and for those who love shopping centers.

2.Bakirkoy (Bakırköy)

Bakirkoy

A magnificently beautiful, clean and bright Istanbul district. It is located on the sea coast. Nearby is an air transport hub - Ataturk Airport.

Near the Bakirkoy marina there are cafes, restaurants and a shopping center (Gallery). Here you can find a cafe for every taste and take a walk along the embankment.

Bakirkoy territory - permanent place residence for 220,000 people.

3.Beyoğlu

Since Beykoz opens access to the Black Sea, there was a bitter struggle for this area. It was passed from one ruler to another, but in the 15th century the Ottomans annexed it to their Empire. The area is cozy and beautiful. Tourists are attracted here by local attractions: ancient fortress walls and tombs, as well as the Polish village of Polonezkoy. The latest census showed that Beykoz has a population of more than 240,000.

3.Kadıköy

This extremely famous and well-developed area occupies part of the Asian zone of Istanbul. Ancient area east coast Bosphorus. If tourists want to go shopping and have fun, they definitely go to Kadikoy.

The most popular destination- This is the area near the Kadikoy pier, Bagdat street and the Moda quarter. In these areas of the district you can find a great variety of entertainment centers, boutiques, bars and restaurants. – a permanent base for the most popular Turkish football club Fenerbahce. The authorities even built a personal stadium, Sukru Saracoglu, for this team.

The area is famous for its old Haydarpasa Station, built more than a century ago, in 1906. A major cargo port is located near this local landmark.

Kadikoy is a “magnet” for opera lovers. Every day many tourists visit the local opera house Sureyya Opera House.

4.Kartal

Over 420,000 people live in this area of ​​the city. The area is not popular among travelers coming to Istanbul.

5.Maltepe

Densely populated Asian district of Istanbul. Located on the opposite side of the Princes' Islands. The population is about 430 thousand.

Until the early 70s of the 20th century, the area did not develop. Then a bridge was built across the Bosphorus, and active development of the Maltepe territories began.

Previously it was dormitory area, in which the suburban real estate of Istanbul residents was located. Improved area suffered big losses during the 1999 earthquake.

6.Pendik

Historically, this area was part of another Istanbul district, Üsküdar.

In the late 80s of the 19th century, Pendik became an independent object, and this is not surprising.

Its area is very vast, and over 600,000 people live on this territory. local population. The cities closest to the area are Yalova and Gebze. Here you can walk along the embankment and enjoy the picturesque landscape.

7.Sancaktepe

A quiet Asian district of Istanbul, located far from the central part of the city, therefore it is not very popular among travelers. Number local residents– 230,000 people.

8.Sultanbeyli

This Istanbul area is characterized as a residential area. About 300,000 people live here permanently, most of them are ordinary workers. Tourists are very rare here.

9.Tuzla

This area is the extreme eastern point of the city. In fact, it’s a suburb. Geographically, Tuzla is located immediately behind Sabiha Gokcen Airport. The population is 200 thousand people. The tourism industry is not developed.

10.Dying ( Ümraniye)

This area is a “neighbor” of Uskudar. The townspeople have long chosen it as a convenient place for relaxation and picnics.

Among the attractions, two main ones can be distinguished: the Umranye Merkez Camii Mosque and Chamlydzha Hill.

The latter is especially noteworthy because, having climbed to its top, you can admire the beauty of Istanbul, which is visible from here in full view.

11.Uskudar ( Üsküdar)

This area is very popular with tourists. Usküdar borders the Bosphorus Strait, and is connected to the European zone of Istanbul through a large bridge.

For travelers, historical and architectural monuments are of great interest, including the Mikhrimah and Valide mosques, the Maiden Tower and many others.

Tourists also visit with interest the ancient local cemetery Karkaakhmet. Usküdar is a treasure trove of mosques, of which there are more than 200. The area is densely populated, with a population of 550,000 people.

12.Schile ( Şile)

An extremely large area of ​​Istanbul, located in the Asian part. Sile is located at a considerable distance from the city center. This distance is 70 km.

Sile is washed by the waters of the Black Sea. The largest lighthouse in the Turkish state and the Weeping Rocks may be attractive to tourists.

In Sila, tourists can stay in a hotel of their choice (there are both large and small hotels), in the evening they can walk along the small streets and admire the beautiful view.

13.Chekmekoy ( Çekmekoy)

An ordinary Istanbul district, absolutely not special. Located in the Asian zone of Istanbul. About 150 thousand people live here. Travelers are a rarity in the area.

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Districts of Istanbul

The Greater Istanbul urban agglomeration includes, each of which is divided into several neighborhoods.

Fatih is the main district of the central part of the city, one of the most orthodox and conservative in Istanbul. The most popular quarter among tourists is Sultanahmet, included in the List cultural heritage UNESCO, with St. Sophia Cathedral, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome and dozens of other unique historical monuments. The Eminonu quarter is one of the oldest in the city, famous for its museums, mosques and colorful oriental bazaars, including the legendary Spice Market.

Beyoglu is the New City, the main cultural, commercial and entertainment center of modern Istanbul. Here are the neighborhoods of Karakoy, Galatasaray and Taksim - places where the best shops, art galleries, antique shops and coffee shops are concentrated. This is a cosmopolitan area that is home not only to Turks, but also to members of the Jewish and Christian communities. Beyoğlu is visited daily by more than a million people, most of whom are tourists. The center of the area is Taksim Square, the terminus of many buses and one of the metro lines. The main attractions of the square are the Independence Monument and the Cultural Center named after. Ataturk. Galatasaray is an ancient quarter founded in the Byzantine era. Many ancient Genoese buildings remain here, the most famous of which is the Galata Tower, the symbol of the area. A little to the south is Karakoy, connecting Beyoglu with historical center on the other side of the Golden Horn.

The pride of the Karakoy quarter is fish restaurants with the freshest seafood.

Another famous area of ​​Istanbul is the prestigious Besiktas, located on the European coast of the Bosphorus. Here are the Ortakoy Marina, the Sinan Pasha Mosque, the Yildiz and Dolmabahce palaces, and Barbarossa Square. There are many hotels in Besiktas, most of which are quite expensive.

Kadikoy is one of the main districts in the Asian part of Istanbul, perfect place for entertainment and shopping. Luxury shopping malls, clubs and restaurants have turned it into a mecca for wealthy Turkish youth.

Of course, in Istanbul there are not only ceremonial tourist streets, but also working outskirts, one of which is the Zeytinburnu district, located on the European coast of the Sea of ​​​​Marmara. Its main population is migrants from the east of the country who come here to work.

Communications and Wi-Fi

Mobile communications in Turkey are provided by the “big three” operators: Turkcell, Avea and Vodafone. The cheapest services are from Avea, the most expensive are from Turkcell. Local SIM cards can be purchased at company offices located around every corner, as well as at newsstands and hotel lobbies. SIM cards are sold on a prepaid basis, the average cost of a basic package is 12-65 TRY.

Turkish tariffs, as a rule, are unified sets of services with a predetermined volume of Internet traffic, the number of SMCs and minutes for calls. There are also special “tourist SIM cards” with free incoming and inexpensive outgoing. The cheapest way to call from payphones is by first purchasing a Telekart Satelik calling card.

You should study the tariff conditions in advance, because consultants in stores most often offer the most expensive options to ignorant tourists.

Free Wi-Fi is available in many cafes, restaurants, shopping centers and hotels located in the city center. The stability and speed of the connection depend on the location of the establishment and the number of visitors. Recently free wifi also available on largest areas, and in community centers Istanbul.

Istanbul Guest Card

Beaches of Istanbul

Guests of Istanbul have a unique opportunity to relax on the shores of two seas: the Black and Marmara. The most famous beaches on the coast of the Sea of ​​Marmara are located in the Asian part of the city, in the Kadikoy area, in Caddebostan. Their main advantages are free entry, developed infrastructure(there are showers, toilets, changing rooms, umbrellas, sun loungers) and a comfortable water temperature - the sea here is shallow and warms up very quickly. The beach in Fenerbahçe Bay is more cozy and secluded: it can accommodate only 50 visitors. It also has everything you need for relaxation: changing cabins, toilets, a cafe and a small restaurant.

Caddebostan is the area of ​​the most famous Istanbul beaches on the shores of the Sea of ​​Marmara.

The most popular beach in the European part of the Marmara coast is “Floria” with a sandy shore and convenient entrance to the sea. The beach is paid, but visitors are provided with a whole range of exciting entertainment: from rental of sports equipment to fiery dancing in bars and discos.

Most Famous places for relaxation on Black Sea coast- Killos area with many private beaches, as well as resort area Schiele. The Agva beach located here is an ideal place for lovers active leisure. Here you can ride a yacht, do aquatic species sports and even fishing. The second beach of the zone, the same name “Sile”, is more suitable for lovers of a calm, peaceful holiday.

However, feel in the present seaside resort only possible on the Princes' Islands with their stunning scenery. The sea here is transparent, clean and warm, and any transport except bicycles and horse-drawn carriages is prohibited on the coast. The largest and most popular of the islands is Buyukada, where fashionable hotels, restaurants and villas of wealthy Istanbul residents are located.

Istanbul Hotels

Guests of Istanbul have no problems with accommodation in the city: hotels of various levels are located here literally at every step. Oddly enough, room prices depend little on the location of the hotel, so when choosing an area, you should focus not on the budget, but on your own goals. Those who travel to Istanbul on business can stay in ordinary residential areas. Sightseeing travelers often choose the areas of Sultanahmet and Beyoglu. The first contains numerous architectural monuments, the second contains colorful shops with oriental goods and restaurants serving national cuisine. Most of the hotels in the vicinity of the Blue Mosque are located in restored ancient buildings. There are many inexpensive hostels and cafes in Taksim and the Akbiyik Caddesi street area. For lovers of nightlife, it is best to stay in the Istiklal area, for connoisseurs of true luxury - in the west, along the Bosphorus coast.

Room prices range from 66 TRY in budget hotels to 1660 TRY in luxury luxury hotels. In most local hotels you can bargain with the owners, with the exception of chain and premium hotels. Upon check-in inexpensive hotels You should pay attention to the quality hotel mark, which means that the amenities here are located in the room and not on the floor.

Shopping

Istanbul is considered the unofficial capital of European shopping. The famous city “shopping center” is the Laleli district, entirely consisting of shops with a variety of goods, mainly textiles and leather. The prices there are more than reasonable.

The Grand Bazaar indoor market is a kind of “city within a city”, spread over 50 streets and including 4,400 shops, 40 trading yards, workshops and coffee shops. "Grand Bazaar" - the best place to buy souvenirs, antiques and gold.

The Egyptian Bazaar specializes in spices, coffee, sweets and flowers, while the Sahaflar Charshisi Book Bazaar is a small market for used and antique books, where you can find everything from Marxist classics to Turkish translations of the Koran.

It’s not worth going for big purchases at Kapali Carci; the prices are extremely inflated. However, the building itself and the atmosphere of the market will be able to transport you for a while to the times of the Ottomans.

The most popular souvenirs from Istanbul are Turkish delight, Turkish tea, carpets, antiques, jewelry and leather goods. Turkish delight - the most famous delicacy in Turkey - is better to buy in bulk, rather than in pre-packaged boxes: it is more expensive, but more reliable. This way you can try the product first and avoid being scammed.

Standard Turkish Turkish Delight - with lemon and aroma rose water, but pistachio sweets are also very good.

The best Turkish delight is in shops on Istiklal Caddesi street and at the Spice Market.

Carpets can also be a good purchase in Istanbul. Prices in local stores are aimed at tourists, so feel free to bargain with sellers. It is best to purchase carpets and kilims in the shops of Sultanahmet. It is worth visiting jewelry stores for jewelry with chalcedony. But you should purchase antiques with caution: local laws prohibit the export of items from Turkey that are more than 100 years old. To find out the age of a particular item, you can take it to a museum for examination. In many stores, customers are immediately provided with museum certificates confirming that the products in their assortment can be freely exported from the country.

In addition to traditional markets and bazaars, Istanbul has many modern shopping centers, where the world's leading brands are widely represented, and their products are noticeably cheaper than in other cities.

Lovers of first-class shopping should visit one of the oldest shopping centers in Istanbul, Atrium. Also worthy of attention is Tepe Nautilus in Kadikoy, decorated in a marine style - the first themed shopping mall in Turkey. The Deposite Outlet Center delights customers with favorable discounts, and the 6-story Profilo offers a variety of entertainment: cinemas, theaters, sports and entertainment centers.

What to try

In Istanbul, you will find a whole menu of unique dishes, which are simply unforgivable not to try. You need to start your meal with appetizers: rice in grape leaves, stuffed tomatoes and all kinds of salads with olive oil. Traditional first courses are thick soup “chobra” with a base of local kvass and cold “jadzhik” made from fresh cucumbers with yogurt. Vegetarians will certainly enjoy the stewed vegetables “gyuvec”, as well as Turkish pilaf, which is prepared here not only from rice, but also from bulgur - coarsely ground wheat.

Istanbul seafood deserves special attention: it is always fresh here, because the city is surrounded by seas. Restaurants serve shrimp, squid, lobster, swordfish, mussels and sea bass, and street cafes serve delicious fish sandwiches “balyk-ekmek”. Most common meat dish- this is, of course, a kebab, but don’t forget to try the kefte meat balls made from minced lamb with egg and onion.

Istanbul, surrounded by seas, always has the freshest seafood.

For dessert, you should treat yourself to puff baklava stuffed with pistachios, traditional Turkish delight and “dondurma” - local ice cream with orchid root extract.

It is best to wash down all this splendor with the famous Turkish coffee or tea. As for alcohol, we recommend trying Raki aniseed vodka, considered the main national alcoholic drink.

Cafes and restaurants in Istanbul

The best restaurants in the center (near Sirkeci Station) are located in large hotels. Most of them specialize in Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. Prices here are quite reasonable, and the quality of service is high.

In Sultanahmet, food is more expensive, but in the variety of local cafes and restaurants there is certainly an option for tourists with any budget. For example, on Divanyolu Street there are numerous establishments specializing in the preparation of Turkish kefte cutlets and shish kebab - fried meat on a spit. On the pedestrian street Akbiyik there are restaurants serving local, European, Moroccan and many others. national cuisines. Some of them even conduct master classes on preparing traditional dishes.

There are many decent cafes and restaurants in the Beyoglu area. Several of them are located in the courtyard of the Flower Passage near Galatasaray Square. And on Nevizade Sokak there is a whole string of traditional Turkish “meyhane” taverns with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Lunch at an inexpensive establishment costs an average of 20 TRY, dinner for two at good restaurant- at 62 TRY. You can eat fast food for 15 TRY. You immediately get to the famous square, where two legendary monuments of history and religion are located. We are, of course, talking about the Blue Mosque and the Cathedral of St. Sophia (Hagia Sophia).

St. Sophia Cathedral, which for a thousand years remained the main shrine of the entire Christian world, after the capture of Constantinople by the Ottoman Turks in 1453, was converted into a mosque. Since then, the temple has preserved the remains of minarets, mosaics and panels with Arabic script. In 1934, Ataturk called for preserving the unique temple as a museum, so now anyone can visit this place for a small fee. Hagia Sophia is one of the main monuments of Byzantine architecture, a recognized symbol of the heyday of Byzantium.

The Blue Mosque (also known as the Sultan Ahmet Mosque) is located opposite Hagia Sophia and the Hippodrome and is considered the city's most important active mosque. External inspection will not be enough: the main magic happens inside. The huge hall of the Blue Mosque with walls the color of the sky is completely filled with sunlight, which penetrates here through 260 windows located in a special way.

Also worth a visit is Topkapi Palace, which consists of several buildings with four courtyards connected by gates. For a long time it remained the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire and the main residence of the rulers. Of interest here are the Church of St. Irene (the only Byzantine church preserved from ancient times), as well as the bedchambers and harem of the sultans.

The Dolmabahce Palace, built in a baroque style atypical for Turkey, also makes an impression.

Sultan Abdulmecid, who ordered the construction of Dolmabahçe, dreamed of competing in luxury with European rulers, and he succeeded very well.

One of the symbols of the city is the 14th century Galata Tower, which is visible from any area of ​​Istanbul. It is built on a hill and has a height of 61 m, offering incredible views of the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus. The second most popular tower in the city is,

Istanbud has many places for a memorable holiday with the whole family. One of the best entertainment for children - a walk through the Miniature Park. There are more than 120 of the most famous Turkish landmarks, made on a scale of 1:25. All of Türkiye at your fingertips! And so that your child doesn’t get tired from a long walk, you can take him for a ride around the park on the Miniaturk Express train.

To observe the life of strange marine inhabitants, go to any of the two Istanbul aquariums. The first, TurquaZoo, is located on the territory shopping center Forum, the second is in Bakirkoy district. In both aquariums, visitors can get acquainted with rich collection marine flora and fauna and even feed the fish yourself.

After visiting the TurquaZoo aquarium, do not rush to leave the Forum building. This is also where theme park Jurassic Land dinosaurs. Every child who comes here will be able to feel like a real archaeologist: wander through mysterious caves, dig up a dinosaur egg in the sand, walk among the moving figures of ancient animals.

The Istanbul Toy Museum with its unique private collection of 4,000 exhibits is also a must-see. Boys will be delighted with old soldiers, Indians and cars, girls - with dolls and charming toy houses with miniature furniture and dishes.

Opened in 2008, the Istanbul Dolphinarium invites everyone to an exciting show featuring dolphins, walruses, seals and beluga whales. Here you can swim in the pool with amazing mammals. And in the Vialand amusement park

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Istanbul's climate is subtropical, but cold winds almost always blow from the north. Winters are cool and humid, most often snowy, summers are warm, but without sweltering heat. The best period to visit the city is autumn and spring: at this time it is neither cold nor hot, but it rains at night. You can buy an umbrella right on the street: during rainy season they are sold everywhere. When walking around the city in summer, it is better to take a light jacket or sweater with you: it gets cool in the evenings. Due to its large area and the influence of the seas, Istanbul has distinct microclimates: when there is heavy rain in the north, the south can have perfect sunny weather.