Discover the remarkable history of Istanbul by exploring its palaces and mosques. Uncover a rich culture by visiting its Grand Bazaar, then relax in centuries-old hammams. Though it relinquished its capital status long ago, ancient Constantinople remains glorious through its architectural heritage and impressive modern installations such as the Bosphorus bridges.

History

Named Byzantium by the Megarians around 660 BCE, the city became the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire in 330, under the name Constantinople, during the reign of Constantine the Great. Following the decline of the Roman Empire in the mid-15th century, the Turks reclaimed the city and established it in 1453 as the new capital of the Ottoman Empire. Converting the Cathedral of Constantinople into a mosque, Sultan Mehmed II "the Conqueror" transformed the city into a symbol of Islam. Renamed Istanbul, the city lived peacefully under Turkish rule for nearly 400 years.

Istanbul entered a new era in the 19th century. The progressive Sultan Mahmud II allowed a European merchant to create various infrastructures and facilities: railroad lines, tramways, water and electricity supply systems, telephones, and more.

The Ottoman Empire weakened in the early 20th century. When World War I broke out, the Allies captured Istanbul. This was followed by the Turkish War of Independence, which led to the creation of the Turkish Republic in 1923. Istanbul was not retained as the capital; this honor went to Ankara.

Neglected in the early years of the republic, the city only benefited from development projects in the 1940s and 1950s. Boulevards, avenues, and public squares emerged, while several historic buildings were demolished. In the 1970s, with rapid population growth, the city expanded into surrounding villages and forests, eventually becoming a global metropolis.

Discovering Istanbul

Istanbul is a bastion of ancient cultures but also an economic and financial hub of Turquey. It is also the most populous city in the country, with nearly 15 million inhabitants. Geographically positioned on either side of the Bosphorus, Istanbul forms a bridge between Islamic Asia and Western Europe. While its Asian side concentrates residential neighborhoods, its European side, particularly the areas of Sultanahmet and Beyoğlu, hosts the majority of popular attractions.

Visit Prestigious Palaces

The Topkapi Palace is a must-see in Istanbul. Beyond the imperial gate, glorious residences weathered by time succeed one another. Explore their splendidly designed and fragrant gardens, where you'll find several fountains and pools. Next, head to Dolmabahçe Castle to discover the charm of the former royal family apartments. An excellent way to grasp the collection of Istanbul's palaces is to take a boat excursion along the Bosphorus.

Discover Historic Mosques

After the palaces, it's time for the mosques! First, visit Hagia Sophia Mosque, formerly the Basilica of Constantinople. This edifice stands out for its antiquity, having been founded in the 6th century, and its golden mosaics. Nearby, you'll see an old Roman cistern dating from the 4th century. Equally prized for its history and especially its grandeur, the Blue Mosque of Istanbul dominates the Sultanahmet neighborhood. Its imposing façade easily catches the eye, and inside, the magic continues with tiles, calligraphy, and arabesques.

Shop at Istanbul's Grand Bazaar

More than 4,000 shops, spread across 200,000 m² and 58 streets, await you in the heart of the Grand Bazaar of Istanbul. No matter which of the 18 market gates you enter, you'll quickly be transported by the colors, scents, and merchandise of all kinds piled high on the stalls. Here, you can purchase all sorts of items as souvenirs from your trip to Istanbul.

Experience Turkish Baths

Inspired by Roman baths, Turkish baths guarantee you an enjoyable moment of relaxation. In Istanbul, you can choose from hundreds of hammams, but prefer traditional baths to Western spas. Enter the Suleymaniye Hammam (located at the foot of Suleymaniye Mosque) or the Çemberlitaş Hammam (near Istanbul's Grand Bazaar) to fully immerse yourself in Ottoman wellness culture.

Many other attractions contribute to Istanbul's popularity. To learn more about the history and culture of Turquey, visit the Istanbul Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts. If you're fascinated by grand structures, Istanbul's bridges will blow your mind: the Martyrs of July 15th Bridge (1,560 m), the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge (1,510 m), and the Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge (1,408 m).

Practical Information

When to Visit?

The city is popular year-round. It reaches peak visitation in July and August, though the heat can sometimes be overwhelming during this season. You can perfectly well visit Istanbul during Ramadan. Most tourist sites remain open, as do terraces. If you stroll through remote neighborhoods, restaurants may be closed during the day. Additionally, Istanbul is beautiful under the snow.

Istanbul has an excellent public transportation network. You can get around by metro, tram, bus, funicular, or cable car. Many car rental services operate in the city if you want to travel independently.

By Air

Istanbul is served by two international airports: Sabiha Gökçen and Atatürk. They welcome flights from France and other European cities, as well as numerous Asian airlines.

By Train

The Turkish railway network connects Istanbul to Bulgaria, Greece, Germany, and other destinations, in addition to local routes.

By Car

Allow approximately thirty hours of driving to cover the 3,000 km between France and Istanbul. Indeed, the journey passes through several stages such as Munich, Budapest, or Sofia.

What to Do in Istanbul?

• Discover the remnants of Constantinople such as Hagia Sophia Mosque
• Admire the splendor of Islamic architecture by visiting the Blue Mosque
• Explore Topkapi Palace
• Enjoy a Bosphorus cruise
• Shop for souvenirs at Istanbul's Grand Bazaar, and more