Question 1

Where Is Istanbul, Turkey?

Accepted Answer

Formerly known as Byzantium, Constantinople, and New Rome — today, Istanbul stands as the most popular city in Turkey, and the county’s economic, cultural, and historic tourist hub. Standing proud and strong on the Eurasian bridge, the city itself literally lies on the Bosporus strait separating Europe and Asia, between the Sea of Marmara and the Black Sea. Situated in north-western Turkey, within the Marmara Region, Istanbul is a flourishing city and a land of magic and wonder.

Question 2

What Is Istanbul Known For?

Accepted Answer

A physical and cultural bridge that interconnects Europe and Asia, this transcontinental city brings out the best of both continents, as well as showcasing its own unique culture. A sprawling metropolis that nearly 15 million people call home, Istanbul is Turkey’s cultural, economic, and spiritual center. Awash with an allure that attracts nearly 12 million tourists each year, Istanbul is a hub for tourism – where hordes of people can explore the historical town center and the bustling entertainment district. In a place where the east and west literally meet, Istanbul also brings about the collation of the progressive modernity of a global city and the nostalgic old spirit of a former port of the ancient Silk Road. With every corner you turn in this city lies an unforgettable experience.

Question 3

Popular Attractions in Istanbul

Accepted Answer

Hagia Sophia Museum: One of the most visited museums and most prominent monuments in the world, Hagia Sophia is a living icon. A trailblazer in the worlds of art and history of architecture, Hagia Sophia possesses a deep and rich cultural and spiritual significance, as well as being awash in unforgettable beauty. Noted as the “eighth wonder of the world,” Hagia Sophia is the second most visited museum and most visited tourist attraction in Turkey. Firstly, a church, secondly, a mosque, and thirdly, a museum, but Hagia Sophia has always been a tribute to sublime and indescribable beauty.

Topkapi Palace: With the stories of libidinous sultans, devious eunuchs, beautiful courtesans, and power-hungry courtiers embedded in its walls, Topkapi Palace was the seat of power when it was the court of the Ottoman Empire between the 15th and 19th centuries. Take a trip back into the sumptuous, exotic past of this period when you spectate at the opulence and extravagance of where these stories were based. With the end of the Empire coming about in 1923, the Ministry of Tourism & Culture has since pronounced the palace as a museum. Marvel at the clothing, armor, weapons, miniatures, religious relics, and manuscripts as you take a glimpse back into the past.

Süleymaniye Mosque: Dominating the Golden Horn as it adorns one of Istanbul’s seven hills, the Süleymaniye Mosque stands as a landmark for the entire world to marvel at. One of the best-known sights in Istanbul, the mosque is grand and opulent in its appearance, despite not being the largest Ottoman mosque in terms of area. However, when it comes to beauty and magnificence, the Süleymaniye surpasses all. Retaining much of its original buildings, which have been adapted for reuse, Süleymaniye Mosque presents a glimpse into a time of exotic opulence and devout spirituality.

Question 4

Popular Destinations Near Istanbul

Accepted Answer

Bursa: The former capital of the Ottoman Empire, Bursa emits the nostalgia and prominence of a once-great imperial force — from the stunning mosques to the city’s old town; the numerous parks and trees; to the idyllic mountainous scenes. Located within the foothills of Mount Uludağ, near the Sea of Marmara, stands a city soaked in beauty, where there is much to see. The grand Islamic art painted onto the architectural details of the numerous mosques and old houses are of particular note. There are many retail opportunities within the exotic bazaar and dining on lavish local specialities.

Izmit: A historical old clock tower looms over a city spread over several hills and a narrow plain, welcome to Izmit. Located two hours east of Istanbul, Izsmit is a bustling city. With a wide and varied selection of eateries, mosques, stores, parks, museums, galleries, and social facilities, all the amenities expected of a modern cosmopolitan city can be found within Izmit. However, the prospects of this city do not just stop with the city. With stunning panoramic vistas surrounding each and every corner, you can gaze at the endlessly blue lakes, seas, and rolling green mountains that will provide you with the ultimate sanctuary and fill you with peace and serenity.

Question 5

Best Neighborhoods in Istanbul

Accepted Answer

Beyoğlu: Lying within the European portion of Istanbul is the district of Beyoğlu. Separated from the Old City, this high-energy district is a great destination for eating, drinking, and being merry. With several bars, boutiques, cafes, theatres, live-music venues, restaurants, hip nightclubs, and super cool hotels, Beyoğlu incorporates the eclectic bohemian feel of residential districts, buzzing entertainment areas, and culturally rich enclaves with an uber edgy twist, creating a super-hub of art, entertainment, and nightlife, wrapped with one perfect bow.

Bazaar District: Home to the famous Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar, this enchanting district is brimming with numerous shops selling homemade jewelry, crafts, and clothing. Amongst the multitude of these small retail jewels, stand grand Ottoman mosques, Turkish baths, and infectiously energetic tea gardens where locals smoke hookah and play backgammon. Regarded as one of the world’s first shopping malls, this major Turkish landmark competes against its modern retail peers, but surpasses them well due to its formidable beauty, intrigue, and inevitable fascination. The streets that interweave throughout the district are plentiful with culturally intriguing sights like no other and the district, as an entirety, crackles with electric energy and exotic flavor.

Question 6

What is the price range for rentals in Istanbul?

Accepted Answer

Vacation rentals in Istanbul have a price range between $39-$8,556. The average price for rentals in Istanbul is $100 per night.

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