Explore Istanbul’s landmarks, palaces, towers, islands, neighborhoods and attractions with short guides and video content.
Prices and amenities at Kilyos, Şile, Caddebostan and Florya beaches
A quick guide to Istanbul beach prices in summer 2026: Goga Beach, Solar Beach, Milyon Beach, Burç Beach, municipality beaches and the Şile coast.
The best malls and outlets in Istanbul
With over 50 modern malls and outlets, Istanbul is one of Türkiye’s top shopping destinations. From luxury centers like Akmerkez and Zorlu Center to large outlets such as Optimum and Venezia Mega Outlet — every taste and budget is covered.
Glass warmth on cool Istanbul nights
On cool Istanbul nights, when the wind blows from the Bosphorus and the lamps on cobbled streets glow, Karaköy takes on a different mood. Its cosy cafés serve steaming glasses of mulled wine, bringing warmth to the heart of the night.
Fatih / Sultanahmet
The residence and seat of Ottoman imperial policy from the late 15th to the 19th century. A complex of four successive courtyards, a harem, a jewel treasury, massive kitchens, the Sacred Relics and magnificent pavilions beside the Bosphorus.
Complete guide for international students
A comprehensive guide to the best universities in Türkiye for international students, including METU, İTÜ, Koç, Boğaziçi, Sabancı, Bilkent, Hacettepe, Istanbul, Ankara and Yıldız Technical, with complete information about English-language programs, scholarships and admission requirements.
Beyoğlu — a signature symbol of the city
Galata Tower, one of Istanbul’s signature landmarks, was built roughly seven hundred years ago, in 1348, by the Genoese in the Beyoğlu district. The tower is 67 metres tall, has 9 floors and is built of granite.
Fatih — an underground wonder of Istanbul
The Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı in Turkish) is one of Istanbul’s most remarkable ancient sites, hidden underground near Hagia Sophia. This magnificent structure was built in the 6th century on the orders of Emperor Justinian I.
Fatih — among the most remarkable Byzantine works
The Chora Church is one of the finest surviving Byzantine buildings, originally built as the Church of the Holy Saviour in the Country (Chora). It features brilliant mosaics and frescoes depicting the life of the Virgin Mary, Christ, the Resurrection and the Last Judgment.
Beşiktaş — magnificent legacy of the Ottoman Empire
Dolmabahçe Palace, one of Istanbul’s most magnificent and imposing historical buildings, stands on the Bosphorus shore in Beşiktaş. It is one of the key symbols of late-Ottoman power and luxury, showing a unique mix of European architecture and Oriental art.
Beylerbeyi — magnificent Ottoman summer residence
Beylerbeyi Palace is one of Istanbul’s most beautiful and magnificent palaces, located in the Asian part of the city on the Bosphorus shore in the Beylerbeyi neighborhood. Built by order of Sultan Abdülaziz between 1861 and 1865, it served as the Ottoman royal family’s summer residence and a venue for welcoming high-ranking foreign guests.
Symbol of two continents’ connection
The Bosphorus Bridge (known in Türkiye as Boğaziçi Köprüsü) is one of the most famous engineering structures and modern symbols of Istanbul. This remarkable bridge connects Asia to Europe and spans the Bosphorus Strait.
Asian-side seafront park with marina views
Fenerbahçe Park is a popular Asian-side seaside destination with wide walking paths, a historic lighthouse, cafés and views of Kalamış Marina. It is one of the most loved recreational spots on the Asian coast.
The largest of the Princes’ Islands in the Marmara Sea
Büyükada, the largest of Istanbul’s Princes’ Islands, is famous for its wooden Ottoman-era mansions, pine forests, car-free historic streets and ferry access from Kadıköy and Bostancı. It’s a classic Istanbul day-trip destination.
Upscale Bosphorus-side neighborhood in Beşiktaş
Bebek is one of Istanbul’s most sought-after Bosphorus-shore neighborhoods, famous for its cafés, Boğaziçi University’s proximity and the yachting scene. The waterfront promenade is a favourite for weekend strolls.
European-side pivot of the Bosphorus shore
Beşiktaş is a central European-side district with historic palaces, universities, a lively fish market and the famous Beşiktaş football stadium. It’s a hub for both locals and visitors.
Fatih — historic ferry and bazaar hub
Eminönü is the historic ferry and bazaar hub of Istanbul, home to the Spice Bazaar, the New Mosque, the famous balık-ekmek (fish bread) boats and the Galata Bridge gateway to Beyoğlu.
Eyüpsultan — panoramic Golden Horn view
Pierre Loti Hill in Eyüpsultan offers one of Istanbul’s most iconic views over the Golden Horn. A cable car from the Eyüp mosque area takes visitors up to the cafés at the top.
Üsküdar — a Bosphorus-islet icon
Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi) stands on a small islet near Üsküdar and is one of Istanbul’s most emblematic structures. The current building dates from the 18th century, with a history that goes back centuries earlier.
Türkiye in miniature on the Golden Horn
Miniatürk, located on the shore of the Golden Horn, displays 1:25 scale models of Türkiye’s most famous landmarks and historical sites. A great family-friendly attraction with a fun city-overview walk.
