Welcome to Istanbul! Located in both Europe and Asia in the country of Turkey, Istanbul is an incredible mixture of cultures, rich history, and modern elegance. For centuries, Istanbul has served as the center of the Byzantine, Ottoman and Turkish empires, and lends its name to richly diverse cultural scenes and lifestyles. In this text, you’ll learn more about this remarkable city, from its traditional food and culture to its bustling commercial centers and vibrant nightlife.
Getting to Know Istanbul
Istanbul is the most populous city in Turkey, with a population of 15 million people. It is the economic, cultural and historical center of the country. The time zone in Istanbul is Eastern European Time (EET), which is two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+2). The main languages spoken in Istanbul are Turkish and Kurdish, although English, French and German are used in some areas. The official currency of Istanbul is the Turkish Lira (TRY).
Climate and Weather
The climate of Istanbul is classified as a humid subtropical climate with close to four distinct seasons. Over the summer months, Istanbul experiences a hot and humid environment with temperatures in July and August reaching up to an average maximum of around 31°C (88°F). Winters in Istanbul can be cold and wet, with temperatures dropping as low as around 3°C (37°F) during the night time. Snow is not particularly common in the city but can show up during the winter months. Istanbul experiences an average amount of rain each year, with the highest monthly rainfall being typically seen in December.
Touring Istanbul: Airport and Transportation
There are two airports in Istanbul: Istanbul Atatürk Airport and Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport.
To get from Istanbul Atatürk Airport to downtown Istanbul, you can take the Havatas public bus, which costs 8 TL (Turkish Lira), or take a taxi, which costs approximately 40-50 TL (depending on traffic), or you can book a private transfer.
At Istanbul Atatürk Airport, you can find several exchange offices which offer money exchange services.
Exploring the Rich History and Culture of Istanbul
- Istanbul spans two continents -- Europe and Asia, and was formerly known as Constantinople. It has been a center of culture for centuries, attracting people from all over the world
- The city is home to a few of iconic landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque. It has a rich history that dates back to the Ancient Greeks, and is known for its incredible mix of cultures
- Istanbul is a vibrant city that is full of culture and history. It has a famous historical peninsula and many beautiful bazaars and markets, where one can shop and see the traditional crafts of the locals
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