Istanbul trip planner

A physical and cultural bridge between Europe and Asia, the transcontinental city of Istanbul serves as a living reminder of the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires. A sprawling metropolis of nearly 15 million people, the city covers an area of over 5,300 sq km (2,000 sq mi), straddling both sides of the Bosporus Strait. Turkey's cultural, economic, and spiritual center, Istanbul lures nearly 12 million visitors each year. Its biggest attraction remains its historical town center, a World Heritage Site filled with minarets and church domes. The city's entertainment hub, on the northern side of the natural harbor, offers lively nightlife and a network of pedestrian-friendly streets flanked by Neoclassical architecture. Add Istanbul and other Turkey destinations to your travel plans using our Turkey trip itinerary planner.