10 Interesting Facts About Istanbul

Istanbul… As one of the oldest and most captivating cities in the world, it continues to enchant people from every corner with its history, culture, and impressive landscapes. Standing as a living museum, Istanbul is where the ancient meets the modern, where the East gently greets the West, and where every street seems to have its own story to tell. The city’s skyline is mesmerizing. It is adorned with majestic palaces, elegant mosques, and vibrant markets. These structures tell stories of empires, sultans, and centuries-old traditions.

Istanbul is not just about world-famous historical sites and natural wonders. The city is full of hidden depths and little-known features. For many, it is Turkey’s vibrant cultural capital; for others, it is an endless source of mysteries waiting to be discovered. In fact, some of the most interesting aspects of Istanbul are not even known to many locals. This adds to the city’s charm. Want to know more? Here are 10 hidden secrets of Istanbul that will make you discover it in a new light:

1. The Only City Located on Two Continents:

Istanbul is the only major city that is situated on both the Asian and European continents. The Bosphorus, which runs through the heart of the city, connects the two continents, and crossing from Asia to Europe in a day is an ordinary part of daily life here. It is possible to enjoy the Bosphorus view with dancing and dining entertainment activities on the ferry in the Sea of Marmara! Visit our dinner cruise tours now and rediscover this uniquely beautiful city.

2. It Hosted 3 Empires:

Istanbul is the only city that served as the capital for three great empires: Rome, Byzantium, and the Ottoman Empire. For this reason, while walking in the city, you can almost feel the traces of history at every corner; you might see both a church and a mosque as well as a palace on the same street. You can join Istanbul sightseeing tours to experience the streets that smell of history. On this trip, you will have the opportunity to see the most interesting places, for example, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia Museum, Galata Tower and many other places.

3. It Has One of the Oldest Metros in the World:

The Tünel is a historic metro line that connects Karaköy and Beyoğlu, opened in 1875. This system is known as the second oldest underground transportation network in the world, after the London Underground. Initially operated by steam trains, the Tünel was one of the engineering marvels of its time. Today, it remains an important means of transportation for both locals and tourists, while also being one of Istanbul’s cultural symbols. The Tünel not only offers passengers a convenient way to travel but also provides a historical journey experience.

4. The City of Cisterns:

Did you know that there are more than 100 cisterns from the Byzantine period beneath Istanbul? The Basilica Cistern, which attracts the most attention from tourists today, is only the most famous of these hidden reservoirs. In reality, there are many other underground treasures beneath the city still waiting to be discovered. These cisterns, built centuries ago to meet the city’s water needs, are significant both architecturally and historically.

Wandering among the labyrinthine tunnels and magnificent columns, you can embark on a mystical journey into the past. If you want to explore this world full of secrets beneath the surface of Istanbul, be sure to check out our tour page. Many impressive sites and unheard stories are waiting for you.

5. The Bosphorus, the World’s Busiest Maritime Routes:

The Bosphorus hosts an average of 50,000 ships each year while connecting the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara. Being one of the busiest routes in world maritime transport further increases the city’s strategic importance.
In addition to commercial vessels, passenger ferries are a common sight, carrying locals between both sides of the city on a daily basis. The natural beauty of the Bosphorus also attracts tourists from all over the globe, offering them breathtaking views of Istanbul’s skyline. Its narrow and winding structure requires ships to navigate with great precision, making passage through the strait both challenging and fascinating.

Moreover, the Bosphorus serves as a vital link for energy transportation, with several pipelines and tankers crossing its waters regularly.

6. More Than Half a Million Stray Cats:

Istanbul is like a cat paradise! It is believed that the population of stray cats in the city exceeds 500,000. Cats roam freely not only on the streets but also in cafes, mosques, and bookstores; the people of Istanbul look at cats with great affection.
Visitors often find themselves surprised by the friendly cats who confidently approach them for a gentle pet or a tasty snack. Every neighborhood has its famous feline, cherished by both residents and shopkeepers. Over time, caring for cats has become a symbol of Istanbul’s spirit of warmth and kindness.

7. Captivating Sunset on the Bosphorus:

Watching the sunset in Istanbul has become one of the essentials of urban life. Popular spots like the Galata Bridge, Üsküdar shores, and Moda stand out as favorite destinations for those wishing to witness the sun disappearing over the waters of the Bosphorus. The redness in the sky and the unique view of the Bosphorus offer an unforgettable scene for both locals and visitors. If you want to have a photo in this landscape, book a tour to Istanbul immediately!

8. Unique Identity of Istanbul Filled with Mosques:

There are over 3,000 mosques in Istanbul, and this richness impresses those who see the city. The soaring domes and minarets create the city’s characteristic silhouette; historical mosques like Suleymaniye, Sultanahmet, and Hagia Sophia are among Istanbul’s landmarks. The small mosques in the side streets of neighborhoods add a different touch to the city.

9. Motor Vehicles Prohibited on the Princes’ Islands:

Gasoline-powered motor vehicles are prohibited in all of the Princes’ Islands such as Büyükada, Heybeliada and Burgazada. Transportation on the island’s roads is done by bicycle, electric vehicles, or nostalgic horse-drawn carriages. This creates a distinctly peaceful atmosphere on the islands.
The gentle sound of waves and the chirping of birds take the place of city noise, inviting visitors to relax. People living on the islands frequently pass their time by exploring tree-lined paths and admiring centuries-old houses. Seasonal festivals and lively local markets also add color to the tranquil life of the islands.

10.The City of Extraordinary Flavor Combinations:

In Istanbul, street food is not just about stuffed mussels and simit! Local, unusual combinations like fish sandwiches, boza with pickle juice, and chicken over rice can appear at every corner. The city is like a culinary laboratory. If you want to experience these unique flavors, take a look at the Turkey Istanbul Culinary, Wine, Food & Tasting Tours section on our page.