Info about Istambul, and why is it a great idea to visit it.

by Itzel Villeda · 2026-02-04

Imagine this: you’re walking down a cobblestone street, the scent of spices wafts through the air, you hear the call to prayer echoing from ancient minarets, and suddenly, you realize you are standing exactly on the rift that joins (or separates) East and West.

Istanbul, formerly known as Byzantium and Constantinople, has been the crown jewel of four empires: the Roman, Byzantine, Latin, and Ottoman. It’s no wonder that every corner of the city feels like it has layers of history piled high. But make no mistake, Istanbul is no dusty museum. It is a vibrant metropolis of over 15 million people who know how to enjoy life, strong coffee, and a good deal.

Reasons to Fall in Love with Istanbul (and Never Want to Leave)

1. The Skyline of Mosques

The Blue Mosque in the night city of Istanbul, Turkey

There is no skyline in the world that compares to Istanbul at sunset. The Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii), with its six minarets and 20,000 Iznik tiles, rivals the majestic Hagia Sophia. The latter is an architectural miracle that has transitioned from a cathedral to a mosque, then a museum, and now a mosque again. Stepping into Hagia Sophia is like entering a time bubble where golden Byzantine mosaics coexist with giant Islamic calligraphy.

2. The Organized Chaos of the Grand Bazaar

Grand Bazaar

Do you like to haggle? If not, you’ll learn by necessity here (and have fun doing it). With over 4,000 shops spread across 64 streets, the Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. From hand-woven rugs to lamps that look straight out of Aladdin, this place is a labyrinth where getting lost is part of the itinerary. Pro tip: Never accept the first price. If the vendor doesn’t offer you tea while you negotiate, you’re doing it wrong.

3. Gastronomy: Beyond the Kebab

Balık Ekmek (fish sandwich)

Eating in Istanbul is a high-performance sport. You must try Simit (the sesame-crusted Turkish “pretzel”) from street stalls, Balık Ekmek (fish sandwich) under the Galata Bridge, and of course, Baklava that will make you question all your previous desserts. And don’t even get me started on Kahvaltı, the Turkish breakfast, which consists of an endless table of cheeses, olives, honey, creams, eggs, and breads that will keep you full until the next day.

4. The City of Cats

The City of Cats

If you’re a “cat lover,” Istanbul is your personal paradise. Here, cats aren’t “stray”; they are full-fledged citizens. You’ll see small cat houses built by neighbors, food bowls on every corner, and kitties sleeping peacefully on expensive rugs in shops. Istanbulites believe cats are spiritual beings, and the city cares for them with a heart-warming devotion.

5. Sailing the Bosphorus

Bosphorus Strait

You can’t say you’ve been to Istanbul if you haven’t boarded a boat. Crossing the Bosphorus Strait is the mandatory activity. You’ll see the summer palaces of the Sultans (like Dolmabahçe), ancient fortresses, and million-dollar wooden mansions called Yalı. It is the only way to truly appreciate the scale of this city stretching across two continents.

Must-See Spots (Before You Head Home)

The Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern: A submerged palace with 336 marble columns. It’s mystical, cool, and a bit eerie (in a good way). Look for the inverted Medusa heads at the back.
Galata Tower: For the best 360° views of the city. Go at sunset; the effort of the climb is worth every second when you see the Golden Horn turn orange.
Balat Neighborhood: The historic Jewish quarter, famous for its brightly colored houses and hipster cafes. It’s the perfect spot for your Instagram photos.
Topkapi Palace: Where the Sultans lived their best lives. The Harem is fascinating, and the Treasury (featuring the world’s fourth-largest diamond) will leave you dazzled.

Why Visit Istanbul Now?

Karaköy

Because Istanbul is a city that never sleeps but always has time for tea. It is modern, ancient, loud, and zen, all at the same time. Furthermore, in 2026, the tourism infrastructure is better than ever, with renovated museums and an art scene in neighborhoods like Karaköy that rivals Berlin or New York.

It’s a destination that changes you. It teaches you that history isn’t just in books—it’s in the way a baker pulls bread from the oven or how the sun bounces off the waters of the Sea of Marmara.

Conclusion and Logistics: Arriving and Getting Around

Airport Transportation

Istanbul will welcome you with open arms, but being a metropolis of such magnitude, logistics are key to avoiding a stressful start to your vacation. The city is primarily served by Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side—a modern marvel that feels like a city in itself—and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side.

To ensure your arrival is as smooth as a well-made Turkish coffee, it is highly recommended to arrange your Airport Transportation in advance:

Private Transfers: The most comfortable option. A driver waits for you with a sign with your name and takes you directly to your hotel in Sultanahmet or Taksim without you having to fight with the taximeter or traffic.
Havaist and Havabus: These are modern and affordable shuttle buses connecting both airports with the city’s main hubs. They offer Wi-Fi and plenty of luggage space for the bags you’ll surely fill at the Grand Bazaar.
Metro: The M11 line connects the new Istanbul Airport to the center quickly, ideal if you are traveling light and want to avoid the city’s famous traffic.

Istanbul awaits you with its magic, its spices, and its cats. Are you ready to cross the bridge into adventure?

Info about Istambul, and why is it a great idea to visit it.