Eight Compelling Reasons to Stay in Istanbul

Dining in Europe and sleeping in Asia, working in Asia while living in Europe—impossible? Not for the residents of Istanbul who enjoy the unique experience of being on both continents every day. As one of the largest cities in the world, Istanbul connects Asia and Europe both physically and culturally.

Reliable Transport

Napoleon Bonaparte once said, “If the earth were a single state, Istanbul would be its capital.” With a population of 15 million, Istanbul boasts an impressive transport system that is more organized than many smaller cities. The city’s infrastructure includes a well-scheduled land and water transport system that caters to both residents and visitors.

Forget the challenges of finding a taxi in busy cities; Istanbul has one of the best transport systems in Turkey. Residents can choose from taxis, shared taxis (Dolmuş), the Metroline, metro buses, and boats that ferry people between the city’s European and Asian sides in under 40 minutes.

Activities

Istanbul's 39 districts—25 in Europe and 14 in Asia—each offer unique experiences. Daily life in Istanbul feels like a vacation with a plethora of activities lined up. From musicals such as the whirling dervishes and Bosphorus dinner cruises with entertainment to walking tours, Turkish coffee culture, and astonishing panoramic views of Istanbul, there’s something for everyone. Don't miss the traditional Turkish bath for a refreshing and cleansing experience.

Economic Hub

Istanbul is also Turkey’s economic hub due to its central location where land and sea trade routes intersect. This industrial center creates jobs through its automobile plants, food processing, hotels, tourism spots, and textile industry. In 2019, Istanbul had the highest GDP in Turkey, contributing significantly to agriculture, fishing, forestry, and other industries, making it the country’s economic powerhouse.

Cultural Diversity

If you didn’t have a reason to stay in Istanbul, now you do. The city offers delicious and diverse food, from savory specialties and famous cheeses to indulgent Turkish tea and countless desserts. The attire and lifestyle of residents reflect the diverse backgrounds of Istanbul’s inhabitants. The city carries 8000 years of history, offering much to visitors and new residents alike.

Learning Turkish is a fun challenge for newcomers. The Turkish alphabet has eight vowels and 21 consonants, compared to English’s five vowels and 21 consonants. The language, attributed to Turkey's founder, Kemal Ataturk, is free from foreign influences. The Turks have a 96% literacy rate and are proud of their language. Istanbulites are welcoming and always willing to help, making it easy to find your way around the city.

Low Cost of Living

In Istanbul, you can rent or buy property according to your budget, from 1+1 apartments to luxurious villas. Besides affordable accommodation, transport and food are also reasonably priced, making life easier for residents and tourists alike. The city offers a range of activities and essential services for everyone.

Historic Landmarks

Istanbul is rich in history with 75 museums and five imperial palaces, each with a unique story. The city was once the capital of four empires: the Roman, Byzantine, Latin, and Ottoman Empires. The architecture, as viewed from the Galata Tower, is truly inspiring. Famous landmarks in Istanbul are accessible without spending a lot, making it a top holiday destination.

Shopping

Tourism in Istanbul has flourished due to the incredible shopping experience the city offers. With over 100 shopping malls, Istanbul provides a variety of brands and products. From home goods and clothing to cosmetics and food, there’s something for every shopper. The famous Grand Bazaar is renowned for its Turkish-designed clothing, cutlery, carpets, and more.

Turkish Food

Turkish food is celebrated for its uniqueness. From street food to exquisite cuisine, the Turkish coffee and tea culture is a welcoming gesture in many places. Istanbul offers a wide selection of nuts, desserts, and spices, making cooking and dining a delightful experience. The city’s lively nightlife, safe environment, and always-available transport attract tourists year after year.