Guide in Türkiye
Istanbul is the largest city and cultural capital of Turkey. Its strategic location connecting Asia and Europe, rich history, cosmopolitan nature and unique natural beauty make it a standout city. Opportunities to buy real estate in Turkey also add to Istanbul's appeal.
Istanbul boasts a history of nearly 2,500 years and has hosted numerous civilizations over time. Originally founded as Byzantion, the city was rebuilt as Constantinople during the Roman Empire and became the capital of the Byzantine Empire. In 1453, it was conquered by the Ottoman Empire and renamed Istanbul, becoming the capital of the Ottoman Empire. This rich historical heritage is evident in world-famous landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, the Basilica Cistern, and the Grand Bazaar.
Istanbul has a unique geographic location, straddling the Bosphorus and uniting the continents of Asia and Europe. The city’s European side features the Golden Horn, a natural harbor. The Bosphorus Strait connects the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara, offering stunning views. The waterfront mansions, historic buildings, and unique landscapes along the Bosphorus are some of Istanbul’s distinctive beauties.
Istanbul is Turkey’s economic hub, concentrating much of the country’s trade, finance, and industrial activities. It hosts the Istanbul Stock Exchange (Borsa Istanbul) and the headquarters of numerous national and international companies, banks, and financial institutions. As a significant port city, Istanbul plays a crucial role in Turkey's foreign trade.
Istanbul is a major tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year. Besides its historical and cultural wealth, the city offers modern shopping centers, restaurants, cafes, nightclubs, and entertainment venues, providing a broad range of experiences for visitors. Districts such as Istiklal Street, Nisantasi, Kadikoy, and Besiktas are popular destinations for both locals and tourists.
Istanbul is rich in art and music. The city’s many museums, galleries, and art centers showcase both classical and contemporary works. Leading cultural centers include Istanbul Modern, Pera Museum, Sakip Sabanci Museum, and the Istanbul Archaeology Museums. Events like the Istanbul Music Festival, Istanbul Film Festival, and Istanbul Biennial position the city prominently on the international art scene.
Istanbul is home to some of Turkey's most prestigious universities, including Bogazici University, Istanbul Technical University, Koc University, Sabanci University, and Istanbul University. These institutions offer high-quality education and research opportunities, attracting both national and international students.
Istanbul has historically been a cosmopolitan city where diverse cultures coexist. This cultural diversity is reflected in the city’s daily life, cuisine, traditions, and social fabric. Istanbul's cuisine combines flavors from Ottoman, Turkish, Greek, Armenian, and Arab traditions. Dishes like meze, kebab, fish, and desserts are enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.
● Language: Turkish
● Currency: Turkish Lira
● Area: 5,461 km²
● Population: 15,907,951
Istanbul offers a wide range of neighborhoods that cater to different lifestyles and budgets. Here are some standout districts for those considering buying property:
Besiktas is known for its central location, historical texture, and modern amenities. Neighborhoods like Etiler, Levent, and Ortakoy are popular for their luxurious residential projects and vibrant social life. Its proximity to business centers and quality educational institutions make Besiktas ideal for families and professionals.
