Istanbul is Turkey's largest city and one of the few cities in the world to straddle both continents, with the Bosphorus Strait dividing the city into two parts. The "Historic Peninsula" on the European side is home to most of Istanbul's historical sites, including the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace. Built in 537 AD, Hagia Sophia was once the Byzantine Empire's main cathedral, later converted into a mosque, and is now a symbol of Istanbul. The Blue Mosque, adorned with blue Iznik tiles, remains an active religious site. For nearly 400 years, the Topkapi Palace served as the royal court of the Ottoman sultans, showcasing jewelry, sacred relics, and exquisite craftsmanship.
Istanbul's cuisine is a fusion of Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Balkan influences. Kebabs, pide, and balık ekmek (fish sandwiches) can be found on the streets, while desserts like baklava and lokum (Turkish delight) are also popular. The best seasons to visit are spring and autumn (April–June and September–October), when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are relatively dispersed.