Istanbul is one of the world's most vibrant and iconic cities. Described as the crossing between two continents, Europe and Asia, Istanbul is a cultural melting pot, boasting a vibrant population, magnificent landmarks, and a variety of attractions. With centuries of history, it's no wonder that Istanbul is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations. In this text, we'll explore the many wonders of this incredible city and discover what makes Istanbul so special.
Getting to Know Istanbul
Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey. It has a population of about 15 million, making it one of the top five most populous cities in the world. It is located in the Eastern European time zone and observes daylight saving time. The official language is Turkish but English and French are also widely spoken.
The currency of Istanbul is the Turkish lira (TL). Credit cards and ATMs are available in the city and foreign currencies can be exchanged at banks and bureaux de change. In addition, visitors can use the Istanbul card, a pre-paid electronic card which allows holders to travel on the city’s public transport system.
Overall, Istanbul is a exciting and cosmopolitan city and is a wonderful place to visit.
Climate and Weather
Istanbul is located on both sides of the Bosphorus Strait, connecting the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara in northwestern Turkey. Istanbul has a mainly mild Mediterranean climate, with mildly warm summers and wet, mild winters. Summers begin in early June and last until late September, producing hot and humid conditions. Temperatures usually range from 21-30°C (70-86°F) and sometimes even higher in some areas. Winters start later, usually in mid-November and last until mid-March, producing colder and wetter conditions. Temperatures typically range from 0-13°C (32-56°F), with temperatures dipping even lower at times. Rainfall is abundant throughout most of the year, especially in the winter months. Snowfall is common, but usually limited in duration. Istanbul can also be subject to strong winds and fog during the winter.
Touring Istanbul: Airport and Transportation
There are two airports in Istanbul: Istanbul Atatürk Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW).
You can get from the Atatürk Airport to downtown Istanbul by taking the Havataş bus, which runs 24 hours a day and costs 16 TL. You may also take a taxi, which generally costs 40-50 TL.
Yes, you can change money at Istanbul Airport. There are exchange offices and ATMs both in the Arrivals and Departures halls.
Exploring the Rich History and Culture of Istanbul
- Istanbul is a city of many cultures, with over two thousand years of history, having been occupied by both the Ottomans and the Byzantines
- Istanbul is known for its eclectic architecture, ranging from Byzantine, Ottoman and modern styles
- Istanbul is home to a wealth of cultural activities, such as concerts and galleries, street theatres and carnivals. It is also home to many historical sites, such as the Topkapi Palace and Suleymaniye Mosque
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