Explore Istanbul

A city of two continents and 39 districts · Updated 2026

Istanbul is the only major city in the world that sits on two continents, split by the Bosphorus and layered with Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman history. There is far more to it than Sultanahmet — start with the big picture, then go district by district.

Start here

Istanbul at a glance — top sights, the best time to visit, getting around, neighbourhoods and food.
All 39 districts — a guide to every district, from Fatih and Beyoğlu to Kadıköy, Üsküdar and Şile.
Live City OS — the interactive map with real-time traffic, weather and transit for every district.

Where to start

Historic Peninsula (Fatih) — Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapı and the Grand Bazaar.
The Bosphorus (Beşiktaş) — Dolmabahçe Palace, Ortaköy, Bebek and the nightlife.
Kadıköy & the Asian side — markets, Moda, ferries and the city's best food scene.
Beyoğlu & Galata — İstiklal Street, the Galata Tower and the meyhanes.
Üsküdar — imperial mosques, Çamlıca Hill and the Maiden's Tower.
Princes' Islands (Adalar) — car-free islands, pine forests and summer swimming.

Going deeper? Browse all 39 district guides — each links to its live conditions on the City OS map.