I've Lived in Istanbul for 10+ Years-Here Are My Favorite Hotels, Restaurants, and Buzzy Markets

"There is nowhere in the world quite like Istanbul. Spread across two continents, Europe and Asia, it's a city of layers and contrasts, of ancient empires and modern energy. With historical sights like the Hagia Sophia and Topkapı Palace brushing up against buzzing bars and lively cafes, Ottoman-era mosques a short walk from contemporary art museums, and traditional carpet shops around the corner from trendy boutiques, Istanbul is a place where old and new coexist. And it never stops moving."

"Istanbul serves as the cultural capital of Turkey-you'll find independent galleries, local concert venues, and inventive restaurants-as well as its transit hub, with flights going all over the country and beyond. Ferries connect the shores of the city, carrying visitors from Europe to Asia and back in only 20 minutes. Each of the city's neighborhoods has its own distinct identity and vibe, and you could spend weeks in Istanbul and still leave with plenty left unseen."

Istanbul spans Europe and Asia and combines ancient history with contemporary energy. Landmarks such as Hagia Sophia and Topkapı Palace neighbor lively cafes, bars, art museums, and traditional markets. The city functions as Turkey's cultural capital with independent galleries, concert venues, and inventive restaurants, and as a major transit hub with flights across the country and ferries linking Europe and Asia in about 20 minutes. Distinct neighborhoods each have their own identity and vibe, offering endless exploration. Luxury accommodation ranges from Ottoman-era palaces on the Bosphorus to newly opened contemporary hotels on prime waterfront real estate.

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