Is Istanbul your next destination on your travel bucket list? Famous as Constantinople and Byzantium in the history, the modern era Istanbul is the economic, cultural and historic center of Turkey. Also, it is the most populous city in Turkey. This mesmerizing city, located between the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara is home to some of the most beautiful and stunning beaches in Turkey. Besides, the beaches and natural magnificence Istanbul is known for its history and exciting activities.
Let us have a look on few interesting facts about this magnificent city that makes it even more attractive!
- Istanbul is known as city of Mosques as you can find a mosque in every corner of the city. And there are about 3,113 total mosques in Istanbul which is the maximum in Turkey.
- Istanbul is the only city in the whole world that is divided among two continents i.e. Asia and Europe. The Bosphorus Strait that divides the two continents passes through Istanbul and it is the link between the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara.
- Although, Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey with more than 13.5 million people residing there, but it is not the capital of Turkey. The capital of Turkey is Ankara.
- The Hagia Sophia in Istanbul which is currently the second most visited historical museum of the city was originally built as an Orthodox Cathedral in 537 CE and was converted into a mosque under the Ottoman rule after 1453. Isn’t it interesting! Also, it was the largest church in the world for 900 years until the Seville Cathedral of Spain was completed in 1520.
- The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is one of the largest and the oldest sheltered markets in the world. With over 5000 different shops and 60 streets, this huge market attracts over 300,000 visitors daily. And in 2014 the Grand Bazaar was considered as the most visited tourist attraction in the world 91,250,000 visitors annually. Great news for shopaholics. Isn’t it?
- People think tulips were originated in Netherlands, but that is not true! The first ever tulip bulbs were sent in 1554 to Vienna from Ottoman Empire in Istanbul and further distributed in Netherlands.
- We all know that Istanbul is surrounded by sea! But did you know that Istanbul becomes snowy with an annual average of 17 inches snow layer.
- Istanbul has the third oldest subway system in the world which was built in 1875. This, 574 meters long subway is located in Beyoglu district.
- The Princes’ Island that is located just off the coast of Istanbul that runs on horses and carts only and you will find no traffic there as all motorized vehicles are banned on the islands.
Aren’t these facts fascinating enough to attract people to this beautiful city! Want to explore and enjoy this city to the fullest? Then try out some of our best day trips from Istanbul at Turkey Tours by Local Guides. We design day trips from Istanbul in such a way that it suits your interest and needs and lets you explore the wonders of Istanbul in the most enjoyable way. Highlights of our day trips include exploration of Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, visit to Topakapi Palace, Hippodrome and shopping at Grand Bazaar.
To know more about our day trips from Istanbul contact us today +90-538-4397811 or mail us at info@constantinopleguide.com