Visit Istanbul
Istanbul offers a unique experience of mysticism and modernity through a constant journey between the past and the future.
Entitled as one of the most dynamic cities in the world by PwC’s “Cities of Opportunity Report,” Istanbul is truly a metropolis. This transcontinental city straddles two continents with its inland sea, the Sea of Marmara. One of the world’s busiest waterways, the Bosphorus, is situated in northwestern Türkiye, between the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara. Connecting these two seas, the Bosphorus also separates Istanbul into two sides: the European side and the Asian side.
Istanbul is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also a hub for contemporary artistic developments and creative industries. Istanbul’s cosmopolitan spirit—diverse and intercultural—is evidenced by the nearly 75,000 companies engaged in international trade, making the city a financial capital as well.
Some of the most important attractions of the city, which offer visitors an amazing journey, are listed below. For more detailed information about Istanbul, you can visit the Tourism and Travel Guide to Istanbul of the Turkish Ministry of Tourism.
Hagia Sophia
Built by Byzantine Emperor Justinian in AD 536, the Hagia Sophia was a testament to the wealth and technical prowess of the Byzantine Empire. Legend has it that upon entering the finished church, Justinian exclaimed, “Glory to God that I have been judged worthy of such a work. Oh Solomon, I have outdone you!” Traditionally, the area around the emperor’s throne was considered the center of the world. Converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople and later into a museum in the 20th century, Hagia Sophia remains one of Istanbul’s most cherished landmarks.
Topkapı Palace
Built by Mehmet the Conqueror in the 15th century, Topkapi Palace was the seat of Ottoman sultans until the 19th century. This grand palace beside the Bosphorus showcases Islamic art with opulent courtyards, hand-painted tiles, and lavishly decorated rooms, all surrounded by fortified walls and towers. Highlights include the Harem, where the sultan’s concubines and children lived; the Second Court with the vast Palace Kitchens and the ornate Imperial Council Chamber; and the Third Court, which housed the sultan’s private rooms. The Third Court also features the Sacred Safekeeping Room with relics of the Prophet Muhammad and the Imperial Treasury.
Basilica Cistern
One of Istanbul’s most surprising attractions, the Basilica Cistern is a vast underground hall supported by 336 columns in 12 rows. It was initially begun by Constantine the Great and completed by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century to store the Byzantine imperial water supply. Many columns were recycled from earlier structures and feature decorative carvings, including the famous Medusa stones in the northwest corner. The beautifully lit columns and the soft trickle of water create a highly atmospheric experience.
Grand Bazaar
For many visitors, shopping in Istanbul is as much an attraction as the museums and monuments, and the Grand Bazaar is the ultimate destination. This vast covered market, often considered the world’s first shopping mall, occupies a whole city quarter between the Nure Osmaniye Mosque and Beyazit Mosque. Entering through one of its 11 gates, visitors find a maze of vaulted-ceiling laneways lined with shops and stalls selling every imaginable Turkish souvenir and handicraft. The various trades are mostly grouped into sections, making browsing easier.
Galata Tower
Located in the Galata quarter of İstanbul, the Galata Tower is one of the world’s oldest towers and a key city landmark, added to the UNESCO World Heritage Temporary List in 2013. Built by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in 507-508 AD, it was later raised by the Ottomans in the mid-1400s. After earthquake damage in the 1500s, it was repaired by architect Murad bin Hayreddin. A fire in 1831 led Sultan Mahmud II to add two floors and the iconic cone-shaped roof. The last major restoration was in 1967.
Guided Tours
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the vibrant streets and rich history of Istanbul with our meticulously curated series of daily tours, facilitated by the Congress organisers to showcase the city’s wonders and hidden gems.