Flight tickets from Pietermaritzburg to Istanbul

Welcome to Istanbul, the vibrant capital of Turkey, located on both the European and the Asian sides of the Bosporus, connecting the Black Sea and The Mediterranean Sea. Founded over two thousand years ago, Istanbul has been an important cultural, political and economic center throughout its history. This multicultural metropolis is an exciting and one-of-a-kind city, offering plenty of attractions to discover. From its impressive mosques, to its stunning architecture and diverse cultural heritage, Istanbul is a city like no other. In this text, we will explore the many facets of this incredible city.

Getting to Know Istanbul

Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey and a leading global city boasting a population of around 15 million people. It straddles two continents - Europe and Asia. Istanbul is located in the IstanbulTime (GMT+3) time zone. In Istanbul, multiple languages are spoken such as Turkish (the official language), Kurdish, Armenian, Greek, and various dialects of Arabic. The currency in Istanbul is the Turkish Lira (TRY).

Climate and Weather

Istanbul is located in an area where temperate continental and Mediterranean climates intersect. This means that summers in the city are warm, sunny, and often very humid, while winters are cold, but not too cold. Generally, summer temperatures in Istanbul range from around 21-33°C (70-91°F), while winter temperatures range from 2-14°C (36-57°F). Rainfall also varies significantly throughout the city, which has both relatively wet and relatively dry areas. The amount of rain can range from 650 to 1,000 mm per year. Snowfall is common in the winter months, though only a few centimeters generally fall per year. Occasional strong winds called “the meltem” can also gust through the Sea of Marmara, leading to heavy rain and sometimes thunderstorms. Istanbul is known for its sunny days and blue skies, making it a great place to visit year-round.

Touring Istanbul: Airport and Transportation

There are two main airports in Istanbul: Istanbul International Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW). You can get from the main airport to downtown in Istanbul via public transportation for about 9 Turkish Lira (approx. 2 USD). You can also take a taxi for about 40-50 Turkish Lira (approx. 10-12 USD). Currency exchange is available at Istanbul airport in both domestic and international terminals.

Exploring the Rich History and Culture of Istanbul

1. Istanbul is a city with a rich history, embodying both European and Asian cultures over thousands of years. From the Roman and Byzantine Empires to the Ottomans, the city has been an important historical focal point of both Europe and Asia
2. Istanbul is renowned for its architecture, both historical and modern. Highlights of the city include the Hagia Sophia, the Suleymaniye Mosque and the Galata Tower, which offer tourists a glimpse into the city’s rich past
3. The culture of Istanbul is vibrant and lively, with street markets providing a window into the diversity of the city. Try local delicacies like Börek and Kebaps, or take in some live music from one of the many clubs