Istanbul travel guide red. Excursion "Tourist Mecca of Istanbul". Guide to Istanbul in Russian - useful tips

You are planning independent trip to Istanbul? Then you should download the audio guide from TravelMe - a handy mobile guide compiled by people who know and love this city well. Listen to the audio track at the top of this page - this is a short excerpt from one of the six excursions that you can download, listen to and go through without any time or deadline restrictions.

It's very simple: download the Istanbul audio guide on your iPhone or Android and go for a walk! We will tell you at what point to turn right, when to go a little forward, and when to raise your head. But the main thing in our audio guides is not so much navigation as fascinating stories about the most important sights of Istanbul!

Istanbul audio guide for iPhone and Android

We have prepared routes to the most popular places in the city: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Galata Tower... interesting stories and facts about almost all places worth visiting.

Compared to traditional paper guides and guided tours in organized groups, a mobile guide has a lot of advantages! It doesn't weigh a gram, it doesn't take extra bed in a bag, it costs mere pennies and you can listen to it at any time of the day, pausing the story as much as you like. Will they give you such freedom in a group of 40 people? Travel on your own! Use TravelMe audio guides and be sure that not only will you not miss anything interesting, but you will also learn a lot of interesting facts, stories about the legends of the places you will visit!

Istanbul Audio Guide #1: Tale of the City

Can be downloaded for free!

The grandeur of mosques and the noise of oriental bazaars, the smell of the sea and the taste of Turkish sweets, relaxing hammam and ferry rides - you fall in love with Istanbul immediately and forever! From the first sightseeing tour you will learn about the history of the city, its structure, customs and traditions. Plan your own itineraries for walking around Istanbul? Easily! Turn on the audio guide, we'll tell you everything!

Duration- 25 minutes

Istanbul Audio Guide #2: Hagia Sophia

Nowhere else in the world will you see a place that was first turned from a pagan temple into the world's greatest Orthodox cathedral, then became a mosque, and later turned into a museum and was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Look for the Hagia Sophia audio guide in the TravelMe mobile guide!

We will begin this tour with a story about the amazing, centuries of history temple. Then we will go inside and look at the interior of the cathedral, first on the ground floor, and then we will go up to the upper galleries, where we will see the world-famous Hagia Sophia mosaics.

Duration- 35 minutes

Audio guide cost:$1. By the way, the TravelMe audio guide is cheaper than the official Hagia Sophia audio guide;)

Istanbul Audio Guide #3: Sultanahmet

Why was the Serpent Column left without snakes? Where to find Medusa Gorgon? What curse did Sultan Ahmet receive for building the Blue Mosque? When you arrive in Istanbul, download this audio guide and we'll tell you everything!

Our route will take us from the Basilica Cistern to Sultanahmet Square, where we will see the baths of Roksolana and the famous Blue Mosque. Next, we will visit the horse market and the Mosaic Museum and finish this walk at the Hippodrome.

Duration- 30 minutes

Audio guide cost:$1

• Yerebatan Basilica
• Column Million
• Sultanahmet Square
• Baths of Roksolana
• Blue Mosque
• Arasta market
• Mosaic Museum
• Hippodrome Square
• Obelisk of Constantine
• snake column
• Egyptian obelisk
• german fountain

Istanbul Audio Guide #4: Topkapi Palace

We invite you on a tour of the luxurious complex of Topkapi Palace. During the walk, we will tell you about all the premises of the Sultan's residence, tell you what is especially worth paying attention to, see one of the most ancient churches in Constantinople - the Basilica of St. Archaeological Museum and finish this route with a rest in Gulhane Park.

Duration- 30 minutes

Audio guide cost:$1. Note: the TravelMe audio guide is cheaper than the official Topkapi Palace audio guide ;)

• imperial gates
• Ahmed III Fountain
• Courtyard of the Janissaries
• Church of St. Irene
• Welcome gate
• Hangman's Fountain
• Palace kitchen
• Tower of Justice
• Harem
• gate of bliss
• Treasury
• Holy Mantle Pavilion
• Terrace Halic
• Baghdad Palace
• Archaeological Museum
• tiled pavilion
• Gulhane Park

Istanbul Audio Guide #5: Istanbul Bazaars

This walk will pass through the area where the most famous markets of Istanbul - the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar are located. On the way from one market to the second, we will show you many other city sights: the unique Museum of Calligraphy, the luxurious building of the Istanbul University, the Beyazit and Suleymaniye mosques, as well as the old craft yard, little known to tourists - Valide Khan. All this, we recall, you will find in the TravelMe mobile guide.

Duration- 32 minutes

Audio guide cost: $1

• Beyazit Square
• Museum of Calligraphy
• Istanbul University
• Beyazit Mosque
• Grand Bazaar
• Valide khan
• Suleymaniye Mosque
• spice bazaar
• Eminonu Square

Istanbul Audio Guide #6: Beyoglu District

This route will start with a walk along the famous Galata Bridge, along which we will cross the Golden Horn Bay from the south coast to the north - to the Beyoglu region. There we will show you its most popular attractions: the Galata Tower, which offers an excellent view of the city; Istiklal Street, perhaps the most party-like in all of Istanbul; Taksim Square, famous throughout the world for its anti-government actions. Lesser known ones are waiting for us, and therefore even more interesting places! Well, are you on your way? Download the audio guide in the TravelMe mobile app!

Duration- 62 minutes

Audio guide cost: $2

• Galata bridge
• Yeralti Mosque
• Funicular Tunel
• Kamondo stairs
• Church of Saints Peter and Paul
• Arabic mosque
• Galata tower
• Mevlevi Abode
• Istiklal street
• Hotel Pera Palace
• Russian consulate
• Church of St. Mary Draperi
• Church of St. Anthony of Padua
• Galatasaray Lyceum
• french street
• Fish Market
• European passage
• flower arcade
• Greek Church of the Holy Trinity
• French consulate
• Taksim Square
• Art Gallery Taksim
• Republic Monument
• Taksim Gezi Park
• Cultural Center Ataturk

In order not to forget on the eve of the trip, it is worth downloading the Istanbul audio guide right now! And so that there are absolutely no questions left about how to do it as quickly as possible, conveniently and profitably for your own wallet!

Guide with audio guide
around Istanbul

Offline application for iPhone and Android smartphones 1000Guides.

Istanbul - the city of two continents

The capital of the two states of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. Most Big city Turkey and one of the largest cities in the world, the only one of the cities simultaneously located on the European and Asian continents. The population of this city today reaches 20 million inhabitants.

Due to its excellent geographical position, the city has always remained at the center of international events, culturally and historically, this has brought both benefit and harm to it. Here were created amazing structures and here they were destroyed in bloody battles.

The creation of the city is shrouded in mystery. It is believed that in 667 BC a settlement was founded here by the Megarian king Byzas, in whose honor the city was named Byzantion. In the first century AD, the city passed to the Roman Empire, in which it rose to the capital of the eastern part of the empire. When Rome fell under the onslaught of the Germanic tribes, Constantine the Great proclaimed the city on the Bosphorus the New Rome, and this city was eventually named after him. During the existence of the empire, Byzantine art and culture gained identity and influenced many other states, in particular, Kievan Rus.

In 1453 Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror stormed the city and New Rome ceased to exist. Instead, Istanbul appears - the capital of the new Ottoman Empire.

For those who prefer to travel on their own, we have prepared our offline Istanbul audio guide.

Speaking of the current weather in Istanbul

Choose routes to explore Istanbul

Route 1. Walk through the center of Byzantine Constantinople.

Today we have the opportunity to visit the historical sites of the ancient capital of the Byzantine Empire. Walk along the former Hippodrome, the heart of the ancient city and see its obelisks. At the foot of Hagia Sophia, pay attention to the remains of the Mil Column, a landmark for counting distances in the empire. From here began the Mesa road, the main street of Constantinople, along which all the solemn processions passed. In former times, this road was surrounded by Forums, which performed important public functions. Unfortunately, apart from the stories, little is left of them today. off the coast Sea of ​​Marmara take a look at the ruins of the ancient palace of Boukoleon, and the view that was revealed to the eyes of the Byzantine emperors. In the old days, this palace was located on the very shore and the emperor sailed to it by sea on his richly decorated boat.
It is convenient to start sightseeing along this route from Sirkeci Garı Station, which is easily accessible by tram or metro.

Route 2. Walk through the center of Ottoman Istanbul.

In 1453, Byzantium, together with its capital Constantinople, ceased to exist. In its place, a new state was formed, named after one of the sultans - the Ottoman. The social system of the Ottoman Empire was very different from most European powers. Here there was no concept of gender, just as there were no surnames. All titles, such as pasha, bey, efendi, were handed out personally by the sultan and were not passed on to children. The only clan in the country was the Sultan's clan, which in no case should have been interrupted, which was greatly facilitated by polygamy. To eliminate the unrest, all the numerous brothers of the Sultan, who managed to take the throne, were secretly killed by strangulation, since it was forbidden to shed the blood of the rulers. The result of this policy was an extremely small number of durable non-religious buildings. Mosques are another matter. Mosques were built for centuries and for any reason - as a monument to victory in the war, as a gift to a wife or child, as a sign of love and gratitude. The one who built the temple, just as it was in the Byzantine Empire, hoped to rest there after death, thus building himself a house for “eternal life”, and not for a fleeting earthly one, and acquiring eternal memory for himself.
Today we have the opportunity to admire the famous architectural structures, many of which are associated with the names of famous figures of the "Magnificent" of the 16th century, we can taste the traditional drink "Bosa" in the historical shop and buy oriental spices and treats in the city's crowded markets.
All mosques are free to visit from 8 am to 10 pm, except for the time of prayer (prayer), which lasts 20 minutes. Please note that the most visited mosques have special entrances for tourists.
It is convenient to start sightseeing along this route from Sultanahmet Square, which is easily accessible by tram.
Please note that some attractions have limited opening hours, as well as an entrance fee. This information can be clarified in our text descriptions.

Route 3. Walk around the Fatih area. Heritage of Byzantine church art.

While Eastern ecclesiastical architecture, such as in Syria, used a central building plan, i.e. round or square domed buildings, Christian architecture used the tradition of elongated basilicas. Usually the basilica consisted of a central compartment - the nave, and two or more symmetrical compartments on the sides. The central nave was the highest, while the side naves decreased like steps and were separated by colonnades. Byzantine art, located between the west and the east, combined both architectural traditions, creating something fundamentally new - a domed basilica. In addition, the dome itself was planted on a drum, which was supported from the inside by the so-called pandantifs or sails - architectural elements in the form of a spherical triangle. An example of the early Byzantine period is the Church of Sergius and Bacchus, the interior of which is made in the form of a circle so that the dome can be easily entered. The period of iconoclasm strongly affected the interior decoration of Byzantine churches. It is believed that the cause of its occurrence was not only theological disputes about whether Christians are likened to pagans in their excessive veneration of religious images, but also political motives. The emperors counted on ideological rapprochement with the East, Muslims and Jews, since Byzantine-Latin relations were too tense. One way or another, art suffered greatly from this. Thousands of icons were burned, mosaics and frescoes were painted over, and many artists were executed.
Fortunately for the fine arts, in 842, at the seventh Council of Constantinople, a decree was read, according to which religious images were henceforth recognized, and iconoclasts were excommunicated.
The start of this route is easily accessible by tram.
Please note that some attractions have limited opening hours, as well as an entrance fee. This information can be clarified in our text descriptions.

Route 4. Walk from Galata along the Bosporus. Features of national architecture.

In the 19th century, so many Ottoman Christians were sent to study in Europe, and a slight touch of influence from Western architectural styles turned into outright imitation. Among those educated at the Paris School of Fine Arts were 4 generations of the Armenian Balyan family, who later served as court architects and heads of the architectural guild. Its founder, Meremetchi Bali Kalfa, was one of the courtiers converted to Islam, however, his descendants remained Christians, even creating the main mosques in the state. And although the richly decorated buildings aimed to affirm the people in the idea of ​​the greatness of the empire, foreign innovations and creations of Armenian architects did not find a proper response from ordinary people. Therefore, by the 20th century, new national ideas began to gain weight in architecture. Thus, the "First National" architectural style was artificially created. It combined Western practicality with deliberately Turkish decorative elements pioneered in the construction of secular structures. And although it existed for a very short time, many authentic buildings remained throughout the city.
It is easy to get to the beginning of this route by metro or bus to the station pl. Taksim.
Please note that some attractions have limited opening hours, as well as an entrance fee. This information can be clarified in our text descriptions.

• Holy Trinity Greek Church in Taksim (Taksim Ayia Triada Kilisesi)
• Flower passage. (Cicek Pasajı)
• Saint Antoine Catholic Cathedral
• Hotel Pera Palace (Pera Palas Otel)
• Church of Saint Mary Draperis ( Santa Maria Draperis Kilisesi)
• Galata tower (Galata kulesi)
• Trading rows"Minerva" (Minerva Han)
• Staircase Kamondo (Kamondo Merdivenleri)
• Banking Museum. (OsmanlI BankasI Karakoy BinasI)
• Church of Saint Paul (Arap camii)
• Metro Tunel (Tünel)
• Shopping arcade Nordstern (Nordstern Hanı)
• Galata Bridge (Galata Köprüsü)
• Karakoy Palace
• Church of St. Gregory the Illuminator (Surp Krikor Lusavoriç Kilisesi)
• Kılıç Ali Paşa Camii Mosque

• Tophane-i Amire cannon factory
• Tophane Fountain
• Tophane Pavilion (Tophane Kasrı)
• Nusretiye Mosque (Nusretiye camisi)
• Paired palaces Cemile Sultan and Münire Sultan (Çifte Saraylar - Cemile Sultan Sarayı ve Münire Sultan Sarayı)
• Mulla Celebi Mosque (Molla Çelebi Camii)
• Dolmabahce Mosque (Dolmabahçe Bezmiâlem Valide Sultan Camii)
• Clock tower Dolmabahce (Saat Kulesi)
• Dolmabahce Palace
• Naval Museum (Deniz Müzesi)
• Chiragan Palace (Çırağan sarayı)
• Chiragan Mosque (Çırağan Camisi)
• Feriye Palace Complex (Feriye Sarayları)
• Ortaköy Mosque (Ortaköy camisi)
• Villa Esma Sultan (Esma Sultan Yalısı)
• Boazichi Bridge (Boğaziçi Köprüsü)

Do not forget to see in Istanbul and what was not included in the routes

It is not at all necessary to walk along the paved paths - after all, you can make your own plan for walking around Istanbul. And even more so, do not forget about the sights that were not included in the compiled itineraries of excursions.

Get a glimpse of the Asian side of Istanbul by taking a ride across the Bosphorus on a small ferry or speeding underneath it on the Marmaray Metro. Pay attention to the Maiden's Tower, located on a tiny island near the Asian coast.
Ride to the Black Sea along the Bosporus on one of the many tourist boats that sail from the pier at the Galata Bridge or from the Kabataş metro station.
Visit the Eyüp Mosque, where the coronation ceremonies of all the sultans of the Ottoman Empire took place.
We recommend visiting such places in free walking mode, simply by finding and marking them in the catalog.

• Anadolu Hisari Fortress
• Rumeli Hisarı Fortress
• Maltese Pavilion (Malta Köşkü)
• Marmara University Faculty of Medicine (Mekteb-i Tıbbiye-i Şahane)
• Yeni Valide Mosque (Valide-i Cedid Camii)
• Princess Mihrimah Mosque (Üsküdar Mihrimah Sultan Külliyesi)
• Hamidiye Mosque (Yıldız Hamidiye Camii)
• Shemsi Ahmet Pasha Mosque. (Şemsi Ahmet Paşa Camii)
• Eyup Mosque
• Opera Süreyya (Süreyya Operası)
• Pavilion Chalet (Şale Köşkü)
• Ihlamur Pavilion (Ihlamur Kasrı)
• Restaurant "Daruzziyafe"
• Restaurant Pandelli (Pandelli RestoranI)
• Studio Monastery (Studios Manastırı - İmrahor İlyas Bey Camii)
• Fountain of Ahmed III (Üsküdar Meydan Çeşmesi)
• Arcadia Forum (Forum Arkadius)
• Pera Art Museum (Pera Müzesi)
• Tent pavilion.(Çadır köşk)

What's the difference - iPhone or Android smartphone, because the guide is always the same

* The ability to listen to the words and phrases of the phrasebook is currently only supported in Android smartphone applications when additional text-to-speech plugins are installed. This feature is not currently available in iPhone apps.

It's ancient, great, incredible beautiful city, located simultaneously on the territory of Europe and Asia, interconnected by the Bosphorus.It was the capital of many empires: Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman. It has a rich history and is the cultural and historical center of Turkey.

General information about Istanbul

About the name
There were no other names for this city. Byzantium, New Rome, Constantinople. In the future, the Arabs call it "Istinpolin".After its capture by the Turks, it becomes the capital of the Ottoman Empire, and is listed as Istanbul. Since then, a slightly modified name has come into use around the world - Istanbul.
Historical past
These places originate long before the birth of Christ, since the first settlements belong to Bronze Age and date back to 3500 BC.The first city that was built here by the Greeks was Byzantium (659 BC).It had a very important strategic importance, determined by its geographical position, which allowed it to be one of the main points trade route connecting the Black Sea with the Aegean and Europe with Asia.
After the Romans came to power, it was renamed first to New Rome, and then to Constantinople, the capital of the Roman Empire. After its collapse, the city becomes the capital of Byzantium.
Everything changes when the Byzantine Empire is conquered by the Turks, and Istanbul becomes the center of the Islamic world. At this time, namely in 1520-1566. the city is flourishing. New buildings, madrasahs (educational institutions), magnificent mosques appear here. But the neighboring powers do not like this, and from the 17th to the 19th centuries. The Ottoman Empire is in continuous wars with the states of Europe and with Russia. The result of this is the general Europeanization of the Turks, there is an interest in European fashion, in styles in architecture - rococo and baroque, the French language enters into circulation.
During World War I Istanbul is occupied by troops of France, England and Italy.
In 1922, Turkish nationalists, led by M. Ataturk, liberated Istanbul from the Entente alliance, after which Europe recognizes the sovereignty of Turkey. In 1923, the Republic of Turkey was formed, and the capital moved to Ankara. However, Istanbul remains commercial, cultural and tourist center countries.
Location
It is located in the northwest of the country. Most of it belongs to Europe, the rest - to Asia.
Of course, the main feature of these regions is the Bosphorus Strait - business card Istanbul. Every tourist who comes here wants to get acquainted with this place first of all. The strait is a link between the Marmara and Black Seas. It is about 30 km long. Its width is 3700 m (at its widest point) and 700 m (at its narrowest point).
Sea of ​​Marmara - from the name of the island of Marmara, where at one time searches were carried out white marble. Its length is 280 km, maximum width is 80 km. The area is about 11 thousand sq. km.
The Golden Horn Bay is a narrow bay that flows into the Bosporus with its waters. Once upon a time, a colony of the city of Byzantium was founded at its mouth, around which Constantinople was later formed.
The Princes' Islands is an archipelago consisting of 9 islands.
Heybeliada Island is a small island, not far from Istanbul. Its population is about 4 thousand people. Area - 2.5 sq. km.
Administrative division
The city is divided into 2 parts: European and Asian. In turn, the first of them has its own areas, places of shopping, bars, restaurants and other entertainment, a large concentration of tourists, and the second has its own, characterized by a more calm, measured life.There are about 35 parts here, divided by the Golden Horn Bay into northern and southern region. All of them are connected to each other by bridges and ferries.
Popular areas of the European part:
- Eminonu (old part) - distinguished by well-preserved medieval buildings
- Laleli, Aksaray, Osmanbey - trade centers
- Besiktas - cultural and commercial area Istanbul
- Bebek - the historical part and one of the most elite places in the city
- Etiler and Ulus are the most luxurious areas
- Fatih and Sultanahmet - the historical centers of the city
- Ortakoy - one of the most attractive places, right on the shore of the Bosphorus
- Beyoglu (modern part) - the city's shopping and entertainment area, surrounded by the waters of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn
- Maslak and Levent - centers of business life
Popular areas of the Asian part:
- Kadikoy - the most ancient area Istanbul
- Uskudar
- Bostanji
- Tuzla
Square: about 5 thousand sq. km.
Population: has about 14 million people. By the number of inhabitants it is on the 3rd place in Europe.
Climate
Fairly soft. Summer here is sunny, moderately hot, with winds, very well tolerated. Average temperatures range from +19 °C to +28 °C. The warmest month is August. Winter is cool, with precipitation in the form of snow or rain. The sky is mostly cloudy. Average t ° from +3 °C to +9 °C. The coldest months are January and February.

istanbul tourist

Every year Istanbul attracts millions of tourists with its sights. By their number, it occupies one of the first places in the world.

Be careful with your personal belongings, especially where there are a lot of people.
- Men should be extremely polite with the local female gender, not flirt with women and not take pictures of them.
- Girls are advised not to dress too openly - believe me, it will be more convenient for you yourself, and there will be no sidelong glances.
- For women who are going to visit the mosque - you need to take a scarf with you and wear a long skirt. Men should wear pants (not shorts).
- We recommend that you do not walk along the inner streets, especially in the places of the old city.
- In places of public congestion it is better not to drink alcohol - this can cause an unkind reaction from others.
- In Turkey, the most revered person is Ataturk. Images, monuments and sculptures with him are a value for the entire Turkish people! Therefore, respect must be shown to him and to the entire population.
- We recommend taking dollars with you on a trip, which are better exchanged for smaller bills, so that it is more convenient to pay.

How to get to Istanbul

By air
From Russia are carried out regular flights. Departure can be made from Moscow, St. Petersburg and other major Russian cities.
The main airlines operating the flight are Aeroflot and Turkish " Turkish Airlines". Estimated travel time is around 2.5-3 hours.
There are two international airports:
Istanbul Ataturk Airport (IST) - largest airport Istanbul, 24 km from Istanbul, in the European part.
From the airport to the Aksaray area, as well as to the main parts of the European side, can be reached using the Hafif Metro line.
By bus you can get to Taksim, Kozyatagi and Etiler districts.
IstanbulSabihaGokcenAirport (SAW)- 35 km. from the city, in the Asian part.
From the airport there are buses "Havatas" - No. E10 to the Kadikoy area (cost - 9 lira, travel time - about 40-50 minutes) and Taksim (cost - 13 lira, travel time - 1 hour). Interval - from 10 to 40 minutes.
By sea
- on the ship on the route Sevastopol-Istanbul
- Sochi-Trabzon ferry
From Trabzon to Istanbul you can take a bus from the bus station, which is close to the port. Buses run regularly. The main transport companies are "Metro Turizm Buses" and "Ulusoy".

Traveling in Istanbul

Buses
The most popular mode of transport. Stops should be announced in advance. There are public and private buses. Their cost is the same. The difference is in buying tickets: in the first case, you need to buy them at special ticket offices with the inscription "Otobus bilet" or "Bilet giseci", in the second option - the tickets are at the driver himself.
Minibuses-Dolmushi
Compared to buses - more convenient, compared to taxis - cheaper. Yellow is used for short distances and beige for longer distances to places in the old town where the tram does not run. The fare depends on the distance. It needs to be checked with the driver.
Metro
The city has 3 metro lines:
- "Tunel": 2 stations, connects the Golden Horn embankment and Tunel Square
- "Metro": Taksim Square - new business districts in the northern part of Istanbul
- "Hafif Metro": Aksaray Square and West Side cities.
"Tunel" is open from 7:00 to 21:00, on Sunday - from 7:30 to 21:00.
"Hafif Metro" and "Metro" - every day from 6:30 to 24:00
Tram
It is a network of six tram lines, four of which are located on the European side, and the remaining two are on the Asian side. At the same time, trams are divided into two types: modern, high-speed and old, in retro style. Fare: 4 lira - for 1 trip.
There is also a transport card - it can be used to pay for all types of electric transport (metro, tram, funicular) - through turnstiles.
Taxi
The most comfortable and convenient form of transportation. Cost - at the rate of 1 km - $ 2. It can be ordered while in a hotel, restaurant and, waving your hand, on the street.Be aware that taxis have a meter and you need to have it on when you board. If they tell you that the counter "does not work" - do not believe it and immediately exit.And yet, at night it is twice as expensive to travel, and it is valid from 0:00 to 6:00.
Bridges across the Bosphorus are not free (the passenger pays).
Rent a car
There are a lot of car rental companies in the city. In your hotel, you can find out the addresses of the nearest "Rent a Car".Keep in mind that on the roads Istanbul it is easy to get confused, there are few signs, so stock up on a map in advance, or turn on the navigator. There are usually few free parking spaces, as the city is very large.
Maritime communication
Because the Istanbul covers the Bosphorus, the Golden Horn and the north-eastern part of the Sea of ​​​​Marmara, there are several seaports - Yenikali, Karakoy and Haydarpasa, ferries run from them to major cities Turkey. Travel - 2 lira.
Also, you can ride on the "sea bus" - to the city districts, suburbs and nearby islands. Travel - from 5 to 13 lira.
Air transport
Daily from airports Istanbul flights are made to Antalya, Ankara, Izmir, Trabzon, Adana, Alanya, Bodrum.
Railway transport
There are two major railway stations here: in the European part - Sirkeci and Haydarpasa - in the Asian part. At the moment they are not working, as they are being reconstructed.

What to see in Istanbul

Istanbul- truly fabulous city. It is an amazing combination of architecture, history and culture. In one city, such a variety of interesting sights has been collected that you never dreamed of!

Top 25 places to visit in Istanbul
Sultanahmet Square- historical Center Istanbul, famous square. Listed in UNESCO. It contains all the main attractions:
- Topkapi Palace is the first palace in which the sultans of the Ottoman Empire lived, located on the very shore of the Sea of ​​​​Marmara. It was built by order of Sultan Mehmed in 1479. It is a complex with an area of ​​700,000 sq.m. Address: Topkapi Sarayi, stop T1 "Sultanahmet".
- Dolmabahce is a chic baroque palace that looks amazing against the backdrop of the banks of the Bosphorus. The idea of ​​its construction belongs to the Sultan Abdul-Mejid, who wanted to impress the rulers from Europe. Now here is one of the residences of the Prime Minister of Turkey.
- Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet)- a symbol of the city, distinguished by grace, unique grandeur and decoration, you will not find such a mosque anywhere else. Address: Sultanahmet Camii.
- Suleymaniye Mosque- a masterpiece, perhaps the most beautiful mosque in the city, built in 1557 by the architect Sinan. Each element of this magnificent structure has its own symbolism. For example, 4 minarets are a symbol of the reign of Suleiman, the fourth of the sultans.
- Saint Sophie Cathedral- the best example of Byzantine architecture. This is one of the most impressive museums in the world. Sultanahmet metro station.
- Basilica Cistern- translated from Greek - a reservoir, ideally preserved from the time of Constantinople, having a depth of 10 to 12 m. It was built on the site of the basilica of St. Sophia. Today, about 40 cisterns have been found here.
- Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art- the whole history of Turkey is collected here, based on authentic copies of historical relics and cultural values.
- Mosaic Museum - arose thanks to the most interesting and priceless find - parts of the Constantinople palace and columns of the Corinthian order, and most importantly - big square preserved mosaics that adorned the palace.
- Whirling Dervishes Museum- Watching their dance, you can learn about the lifestyle of Muslim monks. For many Turks, this is the visiting card of the country.
- Galata tower - 61 m high. This is the oldest monument in the city.
- Rumelihisar fortress- erected in 1452 under Sultan Mahmed Fatih, located on the banks of the Bosphorus in a very calm, secluded place.
Beyazit Square - in the old part of the city. On it are located:
- Istanbul University- the oldest institution of higher education in the country. More than 60 thousand students study within its walls and about 2 thousand professors teach. And its library is considered the largest in Istanbul.
- The Beyazit Mosque is one of the largest mosques in the city, with two minarets. Founded under Sultan Bayezid II in 1500-1506. The mosque has a madrasah and baths.
- The Grand Bazaar is the largest market in the country. One of the largest bazaars in the world. Its assortment is very rich: souvenirs, leather, carpets, textiles, ceramics. Bazaar area - 30 thousand square meters. m. There are about 4 thousand stores spread over 66 streets. A large number of visitors come here every day.
Fatih district - another historical part Istanbul. Here you can visit:
- Cathedral of Christ the Savior - the only Byzantine church that has best preserved its original appearance. Now open to tourists as a museum, listed in UNESCO.
- Archaeological Museum- is a complex of 3 museums: the main building, the Tiled Pavilion and the East. Their collection includes more than 1 million exhibits from different eras and peoples.
Eminonu Square is, first of all, the most important transport interchange of the whole city. There are sea berths, bus and tram stops. In general, the square is quite lively. Places to see here include:
- Galata Bridge - passes through the Golden Horn Bay. It consists of two floors: on the 1st there is a walking area, there are cafes and restaurants, on the 2nd there are trams and cars. The central part of the bridge is drawable.
- Egyptian Bazaar- known throughout the world. Here you will find a large selection of oriental spices, seasonings, medicinal herbs, as well as Turkish coffee, amulets, handmade cosmetics, a huge variety of souvenirs and much more. The market got its name as a result of the fact that initially goods were brought here from Egypt.
-Ahi Celebi Mosque- Founded in the 16th century in honor of the court physician of Sultan Bayezid II, on the shores of the Golden Horn Bay (opposite the University of Trade).
- Rustam Pasha Mosque- erected in 1561 in honor of the vizier Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. A magnificent monument of Ottoman architecture.

What else is interesting in the city?
- tulip festival flower festival held annually in Istanbul in the month of April. It is at this time that tulips are planted throughout the city, so no matter where you are in the city, you can always admire this beauty. By the way, it is Turkey that is the birthplace of tulips, and not Holland, as is commonly believed.
- Kennedy Street - an interesting 13-kilometer street that runs along the Constantinople walls along the Sea of ​​Marmara, built in the middle of the 20th century in honor of the 35th US President Kennedy. Here you can find many cultural and historical sites:
- Theodosian walls- were built under Sultan Theodosius II, the length of the walls is about 5630 m.
- Byzantine Palace Boukoleon- built in honor of the Persian prince Ormizd on the shores of the Sea of ​​Marmara. The name comes from the bull statue that adorned the local harbor.
- Parks "Sahil" and "Kocha Mustafa Pasha"
- Fish Museum
- Lighthouse Ahyrkala - a working lighthouse on Cape Sarayburnu in the Ahyrkapy area
- International Istanbul Biennale- An exhibition dedicated to contemporary art takes place every 2 years.
- The Maritime Museum - is an extensive exposition that includes a gallery of historical boats, models of ships (including the yachts of Ataturk himself), weapons and uniforms of various historical periods, cannons, banners. Located in the Besiktas area, not far from the park.

Entertainment
- Trips to the Princes' Islands- for lovers of the quiet, a relaxing holiday. You can get to them by ferry.
- Walks along the Bosphorus- this should be a mandatory item in your schedule. Anyone who has not seen the Bosphorus does not know what Istanbul is - it is considered so. It is better to take excursions to weekdays when there are fewer people.
- Water parks: "Aqua Marine", "Aqua Delfin"
- Dolphinarium
- Zoo "Baromoglu"
-Ice Museum "Magic Ice"
- Aquarium - the largest oceanarium Istanbul(in the Florya area)
- Jurassic Land Amusement Park
- Hamam - Istanbul baths. We recommend visiting: Galatasaray - one of the best Turkish baths, known throughout the world (in the Beyolu region), built in 1481; Chaaloolu - the most famous bath city, was built in 1741, is located in the historical part of the city.

Night Istanbul
In the city is a large number of clubs, bars and jazz cafes.

Shopping in Istanbul

Markets:
- Grand Bazaar: one of the largest covered markets in the world. This is a city within a city where there is everything: thousands of shops and shops, mosques, currency exchange offices, cafes, and even a bathhouse. Bargaining, like in any oriental bazaar, is simply necessary.
- Egyptian Bazaar: also has everything from oriental spices and sweets to perfumes made by hand from natural oils.
- Arasta bazaar: a little smaller than the two previous bazaars, but the assortment is varied.
The shops:
- "Jevahir"
- "Olivium"
- "Akmerkez"
- "Canyon"
- "Metro City"

Food in Istanbul

IN Istanbul you won't go hungry. There are restaurants and cafes everywhere. Moreover, as local cuisine, and European, Asian, etc. But in Istanbul You can eat delicious food without going to restaurants. Street food is a great alternative to restaurants. The famous Turkish shawarma (doner kebab) in pita or pita bread, Turkish burgers, fried mussels, sesame bagels, corn, pomegranate-orange juice - the smells are breathtaking from all sides. Do not be afraid to get poisoned - they value their reputation here.
The best fish restaurants:
"Park Fora", MUALLIM NACI CAD. CEMIL TOPUZLU PARKI ICI NO:54 - a stunning view of the Bosphorus, despite the high prices, there are always many visitors
"Cengelkoy Iskele Restaurant" , Iskele Meydani No:10/A Cengelkoy, Uskudar - located on the Asian side, opposite the Rumeli fortress, popular with locals
"Balikci Kahraman" , Rumeli Kavagi Mh., Iskele Caddesi 15 - for the sake of flounder in the tandoor, many tourists become regular visitors
"Sultanahmet Fish House", Prof. K. Ysmail Gurkan Caddesi No: 14 - located in the old town, large portions
Restaurants with Ottoman cuisine
"Ciya Sofrasi", Guneslibahce Sokak 43 | Kadikoy - on the Asian side, quickly prepared, can be ordered in half a portion
"Asitane Restaurant" , Kariye Camii Sokak No: 6, EdirnekapI - on the European side, original dishes, unusual combination of products,
Turkish cuisine restaurants
"Magnaura Cafe Restaurant" , Akbiyik Cad No: 23 - in the center, friendly staff, quality local cuisine
"El Faro Kebab House", Kucuk Ayasofya Mah. Kadirga Liman Cad. No 96 Fatih - delicious traditional dishes
"Siva Cafe Restaurant" , Akbiyik Caddesi No: 22 | Sultanahmet /Fatih - nice atmosphere, extensive wine list
"Amedros Cafe & Restaurant", Divanyolu Cad Hoca Rustem Sok No/7 - fireplace with live fire, unobtrusive music
Restaurants with international cuisine
"Papermoon" , Akmerkez Residence Entrance.No:224 | Akmerkez AVM- Etiler is a popular Italian restaurant that celebrities love to visit
"Nicole", Bogazkesen Cad. Tomtom Kaptan Sk, No:18 | Beyoglu- french cuisine, magnificent panoramic view of the city
"Lucky Texans-Steak & Burgers", Ankara Cad. No: 42 - American cuisine: hamburgers, french fries, salads
"Arola" , Raffles Istanbul Zorlu Center | Zorlu Center, Besiktas - Spanish Cuisine, Michelin Star Chef
"Shang Palace" , Sinanpasa Mah, Hayrettin Iskelesi Sok, No.1, Besiktas - Chinese food
"Pera Thai" , Mesrutiyet Caddesi, 74 A | Sishane - Beyoglu - Thai food

Souvenirs from Istanbul

Turkish sweets- delicious baklava, halva, Turkish delight, sherbet.
Tea by weight - any kinds and grades, fragrant and tasty. For tea, buy a couple of Turks - special glasses for tea.
Coffee here is one of the most delicious in the world, you can buy it in any coffee shop.
Turkish gold and silver- beautiful products, made with sophistication.
Leather - bags, jackets, wallets, belts - all this has an original style, good quality and very reasonable prices.
Products from porcelain and ceramics with a manual list. Particularly attractive are copper vessels reminiscent of the times of the Ottoman Empire.
Bath set "Hamam"- usually it includes massage soap, a mineral skin mask, olive soap, a peeling and massage glove - Kese, a jug for ablution, a bag for whipping foam, a peshtemal - a special large towel (100% cotton).
Carpets - they are not cheap here, but they are worth it, as they are of good quality.
Hookah - here it is one of the best in the world.
Meerschaum smoking pipes- an excellent Turkish souvenir.

You are probably interested in the questions: “What to see in Istanbul?”, “Trip to Istanbul on your own”, “Istanbul excursions on your own” or “Where to download?” We will gladly answer them! To do this, you just need to download our application in the App Store or Google Play, download the tour of Istanbul and go for a walk!

Excursion "Tourist Mecca of Istanbul"

LISTEN TO THE INTRO

Istanbul is an amazing city. A number of reasons serve as proof of this: location in Europe and Asia, separation by the famous Bosphorus, the foundation of the city by Greek colonists long before our era. A little more than two millennia have passed since then. During this time, the city was the capital of the Roman, Byzantine, Latin and Ottoman empires, and changed its name 4 times. Many architectural monuments of different eras have survived to this day. We will see some of them today.

Istanbul guide in Russian - attractions

Today at Istanbul tour tourists flock from all over the world. In most of them, first of all, they want to see the most attractive area of ​​​​the city - Sultanahmet. It is located in the old part of Istanbul on the European continent. This is the historical center, where many sights of the Byzantine period are concentrated. In 1985, the entire historical part of the district was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Our route will move along it. We will see ancient obelisks brought here from ancient temples Ancient Greece, the great Blue Mosque, the world's oldest Hagia Sophia, the Palace of the Ottoman Sultans Topkapi, take a walk in beautiful park roses, in which parrots live in a free environment, we will learn a lot of interesting things about Turkish fountains and the largest reservoir, the Basilica Cistern.

The route of our Istanbul travel guide starts with the mosaic museum. The path to it goes through the Arasta bazaar. There are no crowds and annoying fuss here. Helpful sellers are ready to offer every tourist copper dishes, fabrics, coffee, spices, olive oil soap and souvenirs. Therefore, it will be pleasant and useful to combine an excursion with a bazaar. The best way to get to the museum is by high-speed tram, the stop is Sultanahmet. Further, the road goes from the courtyard of the Blue Mosque along the shopping street. There, between the two shops, is the entrance to the museum. Pointers on the walls of houses will help you find the right way.

Guide to Istanbul in Russian - useful tips

Ours in Istanbul tour the journey will pass through the historical part of the city. Here the atmosphere is imbued with the spirit of distant times, two opposite cultures of East and West merge here, and museums and sights keep treasures that have survived 2 millennia. Therefore, it is best to get to know the past of Istanbul on foot.

To visit museums, we advise you to purchase a discount museum card in advance. It is valid for 72 hours from the moment you visit the first museum. With it you can visit the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, the Chora Monastery Museum, the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art, the Mosaic Museum Grand Palace. Thanks to it, the cost of entrance tickets becomes 2 times lower. Additionally, the card entitles you to a 20% discount on entry to the private Rahmi Koç Industrial Museum in the Golden Horn and a 30% discount to the Sakip Sabanci Museum on the Bosphorus. In addition, it allows you to enter museums without a queue. The card is sold at some hotels and ticket offices of Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and the Archaeological Museum.

Palaces are easy to find on the map, below in the article is presented map of istanbul.

Traveling to Istanbul on your own on public transport is not difficult, you can purchase transport card"Istanbul Kart". Its cost depends on the number of trips. Thanks to this card, travel will cost much less than one-time tokens. The card is replenished at any stop. By the way, you can take a card for up to 10 trips one for two, since trips are written off there. If you have to take a taxi, then know that you need to find out the fare in advance, and then carefully check the change you received.

Istanbul audio guide

Are you planning a solo trip to Istanbul? Then you should download the audio guide from Ever.Travel - a convenient mobile guide compiled by people who know and love this city well. Listen to the audio track at the top of this page - this is a short excerpt from one of the six excursions that you can download, listen to and go through without any time or deadline restrictions.

It's very simple: download Istanbul audio guide for iPhone or Android and go for a walk! We will tell you at what point to turn right, when to go a little forward, and when to raise your head. But the main thing in our audio guides is not so much navigation as fascinating stories about the most important sights of Istanbul!

We have prepared routes to the most popular places in the city: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Galata Tower... If you are visiting for the first time, our Istanbul audio guide in Russian will be an excellent companion for you, who will tell dozens of interesting stories and facts about almost all places worth visiting.

Compared to traditional paper guides and guided tours in organized groups, a mobile guide has a lot of advantages! It does not weigh a gram, does not take up extra space in the bag, costs mere pennies and you can listen to it at any time of the day, pausing the story as much as you like. Will they give you such freedom in a group of 40 people? Travel on your own! Use the Ever.Travel audio guides and be sure that not only will you not miss anything interesting, but you will also learn a lot of interesting facts, stories about the legends of the places you will visit!

Istanbul Audio Guide #1: Tale of the City

Can be downloaded for free!

The grandeur of mosques and the noise of oriental bazaars, the smell of the sea and the taste of Turkish sweets, a relaxing hammam and ferry rides - you fall in love with Istanbul immediately and forever! From the first sightseeing tour you will learn about the history of the city, its structure, customs and traditions. Plan your own itineraries for walking around Istanbul? Easily! Turn on the audio guide, we'll tell you everything!

Duration– 25 minutes

Istanbul Audio Guide #2: Hagia Sophia

Nowhere else in the world will you see a place that was first turned from a pagan temple into the world's greatest Orthodox cathedral, then became a mosque, and later turned into a museum and was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Look for the Hagia Sophia audio guide at!

We will begin this tour with a story about the amazing, centuries-old history of the temple. Then we will go inside and look at the interior of the cathedral, first on the ground floor, and then we will go up to the upper galleries, where we will see the world-famous Hagia Sophia mosaics.

Duration– 35 minutes

Audio guide cost: 100 piastres (about $1)

The tour itinerary includes:

• Narthex
• Imperial Gate
• Hagia Sophia dome
• marble urns
• Weeping Column
• Omphal
• Altar
• Sultan's lodge
• Minbar
• upper galleries
• Heaven's gate
• Mosaics Hagia Sophia
• Scandinavian runes

Istanbul Audio Guide #3: Sultanahmet

Why was the Serpent Column left without snakes? Where to find Medusa Gorgon? What curse did Sultan Ahmet receive for building the Blue Mosque? Arriving in Istanbul, download this audio guide, we will tell you everything!

Our route will take us from the Basilica Cistern to Sultanahmet Square, where we will see the baths of Roksolana and the famous Blue Mosque. Next, we will visit the horse market and the Mosaic Museum and finish this walk at the Hippodrome.

Duration- 30 minutes

Audio guide cost: 100 piastres (about $1)

The tour itinerary includes:

Istanbul Audio Guide #4: Topkapi Palace

We invite you on a tour of the luxurious complex of Topkapi Palace. During the walk, we will tell you about all the premises of the Sultan's residence, suggest what is especially worth paying attention to, see one of the most ancient churches in Constantinople - the Basilica of St. Irene, visit the Archaeological Museum and finish this route with a rest in Gulhane Park.

Duration- 30 minutes

Audio guide cost: 100 piastres (about $1)

The tour itinerary includes:

Istanbul Audio Guide #5: Istanbul Bazaars

This walk will pass through the area where the most famous markets of Istanbul are located - the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar. On the way from one market to the second, we will show you many other city sights: the unique Museum of Calligraphy, the luxurious building of the Istanbul University, the Beyazit and Suleymaniye mosques, as well as the old craft yard, little known to tourists - Valide Khan. All this, we recall, you will find in the Ever.Travel mobile guide.

Duration– 32 minutes

Audio guide cost: 100 piastres (about $1)

The tour itinerary includes:

Istanbul Audio Guide #6: Beyoglu District

Duration– 62 minutes

Audio guide cost: 200 piastres (about $2)

The tour itinerary includes:

Bonus cat from Hagia Sophia especially for those who almost read to the end;)